Final answer:
A developmental delay occurs when children do not reach typical developmental milestones at expected times. Lead exposure can cause a range of health and development issues, especially if not detected and managed early. Early intervention can help mitigate some impact of these delays.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term developmental delay refers to when children do not reach developmental milestones within the typical age ranges. Issues such as neurodevelopmental disorders, learning disabilities, and behavioral problems could arise from conditions like lead exposure, which disrupts the normal development of the nervous system. Moreover, the effects of such exposure may not manifest until later on when children are expected to perform more complex tasks, at which point the underlying developmental deficits become more apparent. This is why it is essential to monitor developmental milestones carefully and seek early intervention services if delays are observed.
Lead exposure can lead to a variety of health and developmental problems. Dr. Morrison's concern over Vanessa's and Lucas' lead levels suggests that their exposure was potentially higher or more recent than Paul's, warranting greater scrutiny for possible developmental impacts. Identifying developmental delays early can lead to interventions that may help mitigate some of the adverse effects, although the damage to the nervous system is generally irreversible. Interventions like speech or behavioral therapies can help children function better.