Health Effects of Lead Poisoning

Health Effects of Lead Poisoning

Lead is a harmful metal that can cause serious health problems and is especially dangerous for children and pregnant women. The most commonly identified source of lead poisoning for children is peeling lead paint and lead in dust. Lead can get into your or your child’s body by touching products or surfaces that are covered with lead dust or contain lead, then putting your hands in your mouth. It can also get in your body if you eat, swallow or mouth a product that contains lead.

In pregnant woman, lead can cross the placental barrier, which means pregnant women who are exposed to lead also expose their unborn child. Lead can damage a developing baby’s nervous system and has been found to affect behavior and intelligence. In children, lead poisoning could result in neurological defects and mental retardation. In adults, lead poisoning could result in high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney disease, and reduced fertility.

The most commonly identified source of lead poisoning in adults is job-related exposure in the construction industry. Workers may be exposed to lead by breathing in lead dust or lead fumes during construction activities that disturb old, lead-based paint, such as renovations, repairs and demolition. The general public can also be exposed to lead through the use of lead-contaminated products.