Key points
- Children under 6 are at greatest risk for health problems from lead exposure.
- The health effects of lead exposure are more harmful to younger children than older children because they are growing quickly.
- Young children may also put their hands or other objects with lead dust, into their mouths.
Exposure
Children can be exposed to lead from many sources, including:
- Paint in homes built before 1978 that is deteriorating or chipping
- Soil near older buildings, airports, or busy roads
- Drinking water delivered through lead pipes, faucets, and plumbing fixtures
- Consumer products, such as toys, jewelry, antiques, and collectible items
- Certain foods, cosmetics, and traditional medicines imported from other countries
- Jobs and hobbies that involve working with lead-based products and might cause parents or caregivers to bring lead into the home
Though lead can be found in many places in a child's environment, lead exposure is preventable. The key is stopping children from coming into contact with lead by swallowing or breathing in lead or lead dust. Parents can take steps to make their homes more lead safe. Learn more about preventing lead poisoning in children.
Exposure to lead can seriously harm a child's health and cause well-documented health effects. These effects include damage to the brain and nervous system and slowed growth and development. Children may also have learning and behavior problems and hearing and speech problems. If your child may have been exposed to lead, talk to your child's health care provider about a blood lead test.
Learn more about exposure
- How to Prevent Lead Poisoning in Children – steps to stop children from coming into contact with lead
- Blood Lead Levels in Children – information on blood lead testing in children
Resources
Know the facts – facts and information on lead poisoning prevention (printable PDF)
5 Things you can do to help lower your child's lead level – facts and information on lead poisoning prevention (en Español)
A healthy home for everyone: The guide for families and individuals – booklet with information and action steps for creating a healthy and safe home
Find a pediatric environmental health specialty unit (PEHSU) in your region – information about protecting children from environmental hazards. Learn more with these (videos in English and en Español)