About Lead
What Is Lead?
Lead is a naturally occurring metal that has been widely used in various products such as paint, varnish, and gasoline. Due to its historical use, lead is still present in many communities today.
What Is Lead Poisoning?
Lead poisoning occurs when lead is detected in the blood, and there is no safe level of lead exposure for anyone. However, it poses the greatest risk to children, pregnant women, and adults with long-term exposure.
Lead poisoning can cause:
- Brain damage
- Reduced IQ and attention span
- Learning disabilities
- Developmental delays
- Hearing loss
- Severe health issues such as seizures, coma, and in rare cases, death
Most cases of childhood lead poisoning occur when children ingest lead dust or paint chips from lead-based materials. The good news is that lead poisoning is entirely preventable.
Primary Sources of Lead Exposure
People can be exposed to lead through several sources, including:
- Lead-based paint
- Lead dust from deteriorating paint
- Soil contaminated with lead
- Water contaminated with lead
Most childhood lead poisoning is caused by lead-based paint and dust in homes built before 1978.
Common Areas Where Lead May Be Found in Homes
Lead is often found in areas such as:
- Doors
- Windows
- Porches
- Stairs
- Soil around the home’s foundation
Non-Environmental Sources of Lead
Lead exposure can also come from less obvious sources, including:
- Ayurvedic remedies: Traditional medicines used in some cultures
- Cosmetics: Used for cultural, ceremonial, or religious purposes
- Imported food and spices
- Jewelry and toys
- Clothing
- Occupational exposure: Jobs such as painting, construction, remodeling, battery recycling, and bridge work
- Hobbies: Activities like pottery, ceramics, stained glass making, fishing, and firearm use
For more detailed information and additional educational resources on preventing lead exposure, visit the CT Department of Health by clicking on this link.