The effects of lead on the human body are today quite well-known. Exposure to lead is particularly harmful to children, and can result in developmental and learning disabilities, as well as organ damage, particularly damage to the kidneys. Prior to the 1970s, the effects of lead were less recognized and as a result many people were exposed to levels of lead far beyond those now considered safe. Lead was commonly found in paint as well as plumbing and petrol. Often the effects of lead poisoning may be quite subtle and individuals may not realize that they have been exposed. Over time, more serious effects may be suffered and some people may only realize they have been exposed years later. This has led to a wave of lead poisoning cases coming to light in recent years in which victims have sought to claim compensation for the ill effects suffered from exposure. Today exposure to lead does also still sometimes occur, for example in drinking water or toys imported from countries which still allow the use of lead paint. This has also resulted in new lead poisoning cases which are unrelated to lead paint.