Lead

All children are at risk for lead poisoning. However, studies show that children living in older, urban neighborhoods are at greatest risk. Most of the children in these areas reside in older homes that most often used lead-based paint on walls, doors, and windows. Lead-based paints were no longer used after 1978.

Play the game, "Where Could Lead Be Hiding," to find out where lead could be hiding in your home. Move your mouse on the room to show the answers.

Find the lead sources in your house

What is Lead?

• Lead is a poisonous metal that is used to produce batteries, pipes, and construction equipment.
• It was used in paint, gas, and other chemicals for years. Many houses and buildings built before 1978 used lead based paint.

How Are Children Exposed to Lead?

• Lead in the body stops good minerals such as iron and calcium from working right.
• Lead poisoning can cause learning, hearing, and behavioral problems.
• Lead poisoning can harm the brain, kidneys, and other organs.
• Some of these effects may be permanent. Lead poisoning can affect nearly every system in the body. It occurs with no obvious symptoms and often goes unnoticed. All children need to be protected from lead poisoning by being tested.

How Can Lead Affect Your Children?

• Lead can be harmful if it is eaten or inhaled.
• Your children can be exposed to lead if lead-based paint was used in your home or if your home has lead pipes. Homes and buildings built before 1978 are most likely to have lead.
• Small children can be exposed to lead by eating paint chips, chewing on painted objects, or swallowing dust or soil that contains lead. Children are also exposed to lead through some home remedies, imported pottery dishes, and candles.

Click here to get information about, "Ways to get the LEAD out."