Lead is a soft metal that is found naturally in many parts of the world. It has been used by mankind in many ways for thousands of years, including such commonly used products as water pipes, house paint, and gasoline.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that lead may affect 1.7 million children in the USA. Myths & Facts

Unfortunately, lead is dangerous, especially for children under six years of age. Children are more likely than adults to be harmed by lead exposure due to their habits of putting dirty hands into their mouths and putting their mouths on dirty surfaces.

The buildup of lead in the body can cause brain damage, hearing loss, learning disabilities, and behavioral problems. Nearly two million children in the United States are estimated to have high levels of lead in their blood, which poses dangerous health risks. Once lead is absorbed into the body, it is very hard to get rid of and can even be passed on to a child before birth.

Common Causes of Lead Poisoning

Lead-based paint is one of the leading causes of lead poisoning. Paint made prior to 1978, before lead paint was banned, usually contained lead in very high amounts. It is believed that 85% of the houses built before 1978 contain lead in both interior and exterior locations. These homes can pose a real health risk to those who don't recognize this hazard or know how to avoid placing themselves and their children in danger. Lead paint in exterior locations can weather over the years, causing peeling and chipping. If it is not properly removed, it can result in lead contamination in the soil.

Another source of lead contamination in the soil was the leaded gasoline used in cars until it was banned in 1986. It is estimated that up to five million tons of lead emitted by cars remain in the soil today. When children play outside, they can stir up lead dust from the dirt and breathe it in. The lead dust can also get as well as get it on their clothing which can further expose the family.

Using This Site

This site presents basic facts to help you protect yourself and your family from the health problems that can result from lead exposure. To access more complete and detailed information, please use your mouse to point and click on the area of interest to you.