The presence of lead in gasoline and paint has been linked to a number of health problems, including kidney damage, anemia, and various forms of cognitive deficiencies. But the BBC reports that lead might also be to blame for an increase in violent crime following its introduction in petrol in the 1920s. And, according to various economists, the incidence of violent crime during the 20th century appears to correlate with the rise and fall of lead in gasoline.