Lead Exposure

Lead exposure affects children and adults differently. Visit the pages below to learn about specific risk factors, testing recommendations, prevention strategies and available resources.

Lead Testing

A blood lead test is the only way to know if someone has been exposed to lead. Because many people with elevated blood lead levels do not have symptoms, testing is an important tool for identifying exposure and preventing further harm.

Lead exposure is 100% preventable.

Elevated blood lead (sometimes called lead poisoning) is 100% preventable. Exposures occur in all population groups and income brackets. Elevated blood lead can cause iron deficiency, anemia, developmental delays and behavioral problems; particularly in children under age 6.

Lead can be found in homes, workplaces, soil, water, consumer products and other everyday environments. Exposure can affect people of all ages, backgrounds, and income levels.

Lead is especially harmful to young children because their brains and bodies are still developing. However, adults can also experience serious health effects from lead exposure.

Many people with elevated blood lead levels do not have symptoms.

Health Effects of Lead Exposure

Lead can harm nearly every system in the body. The health effects depend on a person's age, the amount of exposure and how long the exposure has occurred.

In children, lead exposure may cause:

Learning and developmental delays
Behavior and attention problems
Lower IQ and reduced school performance
Hearing and speech problems
Iron deficiency and anemia

In adults, lead exposure may cause:

High blood pressure
Kidney problems
Reproductive health issues
Memory and concentration problems
Nerve and muscle disorders

Common Sources of Lead Exposure

Lead can enter the body through dust, soil, food, water and contaminated objects. Understanding where lead is commonly found can help you reduce your risk of exposure.

Older Homes and Buildings

Homes, apartments, schools and childcare facilities built before 1978
Peeling, chipping or damaged lead-based paint
Lead-contaminated dust from renovation or repair activities

Work and Hobbies

Construction and remodeling
Painting and refinishing
Metal work, welding and soldering
Electronics repair
Auto repair
Stained glass work
Target shooting and bullet casting
Making fishing lures or sinkers

Environmental Sources

Lead-contaminated soil
Living near lead-related industries, such as smelters or battery recycling facilities

Consumer Products

Some imported pottery, ceramics and crystalware
Certain traditional remedies, cosmetics, spices and cultural products