Why is lead poisoning a problem in the Saint Louis area?
Lead is a problem in the Saint Louis area because we have many old buildings with lead-painted surfaces. Most children get lead poisoning because they live in old houses that were painted with lead paint. When this paint gets old, is disturbed during remodeling and turns into dust or chips, it becomes dangerous. Lead paint is found in most homes that were built before 1960 and in many homes that were built before 1978. This dangerous paint may have been used indoors and outdoors. The greater Saint Louis area has many old homes that were built before 1978. If you live in any of these homes, you and your family may be at risk from the lead dust and chips. Even if you live in a newer home, lead may be found in the soil outdoors where your children play, or in other buildings where your children stay and visit.
