Why is lead exposure dangerous for a child?
Lead is a metal that’s found in many places and can be hard to detect. Children are at especially high risk of lead exposure because they tend to put their hands and objects in their mouths, and their growing bodies readily absorb lead. Exposure to even low levels of lead — 10 micrograms (a microgram is one-millionth of a gram) in a deciliter (1/2 cup) of blood — can harm children over time. Too much lead in a child’s blood may lead to: • Anemia • Decreased muscle and bone growth • Hearing damage • Learning disabilities • Nervous system and kidney damage • Muscle weakness • Speech, language and behavior problems • Brain damage Keep in mind, however, that even children who seem healthy may have high levels of lead in their bodies.
