Lead
Lead Poisoning
About one in eleven children in the United States have elevated levels of lead in their blood. Lead exposure can cause learning disabilities, decreased growth, hyperactivity, impaired hearing, and even brain damage. If detected early, these effects can be reduced by limiting exposure and providing appropriate medical treatment.
Who Is at Risk?
Children are at higher risk because their bodies and nervous systems are still developing. They also absorb more lead relative to their body weight than adults. Frequent hand-to-mouth behavior increases exposure, especially from contaminated dust and soil.
Risk Factors for Children
Children may be at increased risk if they:
- Live in or regularly visit buildings built before 1978 with peeling paint or recent renovations
- Have close contact with someone being treated for lead poisoning
- Live with someone who works with or uses lead (such as in construction, automotive repair, or certain hobbies)
- Live near industries that may release lead, such as smelters or battery recycling plants
Where Lead May Be Found
- Homes built before 1978 with lead-based paint
- Dust and soil
- Tap water
- Ceramic dishes, lead crystal, and glazed pottery
- Fishing weights and ammunition
- Batteries
- Older plumbing systems with lead solder
- Imported crayons or toys
- Folk or traditional medicines
- Enamel-coated bathtubs
Symptoms
Lead poisoning often has no obvious symptoms, especially in early stages. When symptoms do occur, they may include:
- Irritability
- Restlessness
- Dizziness
- Persistent fatigue
- Stomach discomfort
- Loss of appetite
- Muscle weakness
- Reduced attention span
- Insomnia
- Constipation
As lead levels increase, symptoms may worsen and include clumsiness, weakness, and loss of recently acquired skills. Without treatment, lead poisoning can cause permanent health damage.
What Can I Do?
There are simple steps you can take to reduce the risk of lead exposure:
- Get your child tested. Testing is the only way to know if a child has lead exposure.
- Follow CDC testing recommendations:
- Test high-risk children as early as 6 months
- Test low-risk children at 12–15 months
- Continue follow-up screening as recommended
Additional Resources
If you have questions about possible lead exposure, call Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222.