21/04/2022
Lead poisoning occurs when lead builds up in the body, often over months or years.
Even small amounts of lead can cause serious health problems.
Children younger than 6 years are especially vulnerable to lead poisoning, which can severely affect mental and physical development.
Factors that may increase your risk of lead poisoning include:
1. Infants and young children are more likely to be exposed to lead than are older children. They might chew paint that flakes off walls and woodwork, and their hands can be contaminated with lead dust.
2. Although the use of lead-based paints has been banned since the 1970s, older homes and buildings often retain remnants of this paint.
3. Developing countries often have less strict rules regarding exposure to lead than do developed countries.
Lead can harm an unborn child. If you're pregnant or planning a pregnancy, be especially careful to avoid exposure to lead.