Dangers of Lead

What is Lead?

Lead is a highly toxic metal that poses serious health risks, particularly to children and pregnant women. When ingested or inhaled, lead can accumulate in the body over time, leading to neurological damage, developmental delays, and learning disabilities. In adults, lead exposure has been linked to high blood pressure, kidney damage, and even reproductive issues. The dangers are especially pronounced in older homes where lead-based paint and pipes may still be present.

While the use of lead in products has decreased, exposure remains a significant concern, particularly in areas with environmental contamination or outdated infrastructure. To protect ourselves and our communities, it is necessary to take steps to limit lead exposure, such as ensuring proper home renovations and regular testing for lead in water.

The ban on lead-based paint in 1978 marked a pivotal moment in public health and environmental safety in the United States. Prior to the ban, lead was commonly used in household paints due to its durability and vibrant color. However, it became clear that prolonged exposure to lead, especially in children, caused serious health problems, including developmental delays, cognitive impairments, learning disabilities, behavioral problems and even death. In response to mounting evidence of the dangers of lead poisoning, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) enacted a regulation prohibiting the use of lead in residential paints and varnishes. This move was part of a broader effort to protect vulnerable populations, particularly children under the age of 6, who are most at risk from lead exposure. While the ban significantly reduced lead-related health issues, many older homes still contain lead-based paint, continuing to pose a risk for residents, underscoring the need for ongoing awareness and remediation efforts.

What can you do?

Testing your home for lead is an essential step in ensuring the safety and well-being of your family, particularly if you live in an older house built before 1978 when lead-based paint was banned.

Lead can be found in various parts of the home, including walls, windowsills, and pipes, and over time, it can deteriorate into dust or chips that are easily ingested, especially by young children who are more vulnerable to its toxic effects. Even if there are no visible signs of lead, testing is the only way to know for sure whether your home is at risk. If lead is found, taking steps to safely remove or contain it can prevent long-term health problems and create a healthier living environment.

More information on the dangers of Lead:

EPA:

www.epa.gov/lead/protect-your-family-sources-lead#:~:text=In%201978%2C%20the%20federal%20government,is%20usually%20not%20a%20problem.