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Lead poisoning is the presence of an elevated level of lead in the blood. It is estimated that about 2% of children younger than 6 years in the United States have elevated blood lead levels. Lead enters the blood and other organs primarily through the lungs (from breathing contaminated air) and the digestive tract (from eating contaminated substances). Lead can have damaging effects on any organ in the body, but it is particularly damaging to the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord) and red blood cells (cells that carry oxygen in the blood). Lead is toxic to both adults and children. It is particularly dangerous for children younger than 6 years because they are still growing and their nervous system is still developing. Even a slightly increased blood lead level may have toxic effects, so it is important to see your doctor immediately if you believe you or . . . [Full Text of this Article]

SOURCES OF LEAD EXPOSURE

Sarah Ringold, MD, Writer; Cassio Lynm, MA, Illustrator; Richard M. Glass, MD, Editor

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