Childhood Lead Exposure

Lead poisoning causes many serious health problems for both children (including learning difficulties and behavioral issues) and adults (such as damage to kidneys and reproductive organs, and high blood pressure).

Younger children are especially at risk because their bodies absorb more lead as their brains are still developing. The most common source of lead exposure in a home is deteriorated lead-based paint and household dust containing lead. Less common sources can include contaminated drinking water and soil, keys, imported toys, spices, cosmetics, pottery and ceramics, and other consumer products