- World Health Organization (WHO)
Let's Be Clear...
There is no known level of lead exposure that is considered safe.
Lead Poisoning and Health
Fact sheet (World Health Organization (WHO)
Reviewed September 2016
Key facts
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Lead is a cumulative toxicant that affects multiple body systems and is particularly harmful to young children.
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Lead in the body is distributed to the brain, liver, kidney and bones. It is stored in the teeth and bones, where it accumulates over time. Human exposure is usually assessed through the measurement of lead in blood.
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Lead in bone is released into blood during pregnancy and becomes a source of exposure to the developing fetus.
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There is no known level of lead exposure that is considered safe.
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Lead poisoning is entirely preventable.
Health Effect of Lead Exposures
Lead can affect almost every organ and system in your body.
Children
Children six years old and younger are most susceptible to the effects of lead.
Even low levels of lead in the blood of children can result in:
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Behavior and learning problems
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Lower IQ and Hyperactivity
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Slowed growth
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Hearing Problems
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Anemia
In rare cases, ingestion of lead can cause seizures, coma and even death.
Pregnant Women
Lead can accumulate in our bodies over time, where it is stored in bones along with calcium. During pregnancy, lead is released from bones as maternal calcium and is used to help form the bones of the fetus. This is particularly true if a woman does not have enough dietary calcium. Lead can also cross the placental barrier exposing the fetus the lead. This can result in serious effects to the mother and her developing fetus, including:
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Reduced growth of the fetus
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Premature birth
Adults
In general, lead is also harmful to adults. Adults exposed to lead can suffer from:
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Cardiovascular effects, increased blood pressure and incidence of hypertension
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Decreased kidney function
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Reproductive problems (in both men and women)
Protect Your Family from Exposures to Lead
Protect Your Family pamphlet explaining the dangers of lead in your home and how to protect your family from lead-based paint hazards.
SOURCES OF LEAD POISONING
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PaintLead-based paint can be a hazard in older homes. Children eat peeling paint, chew on painted surfaces, or come in contact with it during remodeling projects.
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Dust and soilContamination of soil is usually caused by paint, leaded gasoline, pollution from industrial sites, and smelters.
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FoodsLead can be found in imported canned foods, leaded crystal, and some ceramic dishware.
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ActivitiesActivities such as pottery, stained glassmaking, and furniture refinishing can heighten exposure to lead.
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Drinking waterHomes built before 1930 may contain lead water pipes. Newer homes may also contain copper pipes with lead solder.
Concerned about Lead in your home?
For Lead Testing/Risk Assessments
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