Health Effects of Lead
In the United States, about 900,000 children ages 1 to 5 have a blood-lead level above the level of concern. Even children who appear healthy can have dangerous levels of lead in their bodies. People can get lead in their body if they:
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Put their hands or other objects covered with lead dust in their mouths.
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Eat paint chips or soil that contains lead.
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Breathe in lead dust (especially during renovations that disturb painted surfaces).
Lead is even more dangerous to children than adults because:
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Babies and young children often put their hands and other objects in their mouths. These objects can have lead dust on them.
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Children's growing bodies absorb more lead.
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Children's brains and nervous systems are more sensitive to the damaging effects of lead.
If not detected early, children with high levels of lead in their bodies can suffer from:
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Damage to the brain and nervous system
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Behavior and learning problems (such as hyperactivity)
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Slowed growth
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Hearing problems
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Headaches
Lead is also harmful to adults. Adults can suffer from:
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Difficulties during pregnancy
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Other reproductive problems (in both men and women)
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High blood pressure
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Digestive problems
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Nerve disorders
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Memory and concentration problems
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Muscle and joint pain