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Lead
Contact Us

What are some of the health effects of lead?

Answer: Lead is known to cause a range of health effects, from behavioral problems and learning disabilities, to seizures and death. Children six years old and under are most at risk from exposure lead-based paint because they crawl on the floor and they put their hands and other items which can have lead-based paint dust on them into their mouths. Because their bodies are still growing, children tend to absorb more lead than adults.

Children exposed to lead can suffer from:

  • Lowered IQ
  • Damage to the brain and nervous system
  • Learning and behavioral difficulties
  • Slowed growth
  • Hearing problems
  • Headaches

Adults can suffer from:

  • Reproductive problems (in both men and women)
  • High blood pressure and hypertension
  • Nerve disorders
  • Memory and concentration problems
  • Muscle and joint pain

To learn more about health effects of lead, visit https://www.epa.gov/lead/learn-about-lead.

Question Number: 23002-21128

Find a printable PDF copy of all frequent questions pertaining to lead.

Other Frequent Questions about Lead

General Information about Lead
Testing for Lead
Renovation, Repair and Painting
Abatement, Risk Assessment and Inspection

Applying for Certification or Accreditation
Lead-Based Paint Program Fees
EPA/HUD Real Estate Notification & Disclosure Rule

Lead in Products
Lead in Drinking Water
Lead at Superfund Sites

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  • Lead Laws and Regulations
  • En español: Plomo
Contact Us to ask a question, provide feedback, or report a problem.
Last updated on March 21, 2023
United States Environmental Protection Agency

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