Lead Poisoning Prevention

Since the manufacture of lead-based paint was federally banned in the United States (US) in 1978, lead levels in children have decreased. However, the CDC estimates that about 500,000 children in the US continue to have elevated levels of lead to this day (source). Lead can still be found in many everyday sources, such as old paint, contaminated soil, water pipes, and imported goods. Without proper prevention and awareness, people can unknowingly expose themselves and their families to dangerous levels of lead.

Lead poisoning is an environmental justice issue because lead exposure disproportionately affects low-income communities and communities of color, where older housing and industrial pollution tend to be more prevalent (source 1 source 2). It is crucial to address these disparities and ensure that all individuals have the opportunity to live in a safe and healthy environment. Even in small amounts, lead poisoning can have severe and long-lasting effects on human health, especially in children because their growing bodies absorb lead more easily. Lead poisoning in children can cause developmental delays, learning difficulties, behavioral problems, and reduced IQ. In severe cases, it can result in seizures, coma, or even death. While adults are less vulnerable than children, long-term exposure can still lead to high blood pressure, kidney damage, memory issues, and reproductive problems. Early detection and prevention are key because there is no way to completely reverse the symptoms once they occur. Overall, lead poisoning prevention is vital to the pursuit of environmental justice to protect public health, particularly for vulnerable populations, and to reduce the long-term health consequences associated with lead exposure.