Lead poisoning is usually ranked as the most common environmental health hazard for children between the ages of six months and six years. Many parents are surprised to learn that lead poisoning problems extend far outside low-income areas where children may be exposed to paint chips from deteriorating paint. Leaded gasoline, lead in drinking water, food and industrial applications, as well as other sources, greatly increase the number of homes affected.

Lead poisoning is the direct result of too much lead in the human body. After the body is exposed to lead through inhalation, dermal absorption, or ingestion, it enters the bloodstream and attaches to proteins that carry it to different tissues and organs. The effect lead has on the various systems is highly dependent on several factors. Because the human body cannot use this lead, even small amounts can lead to serious problems. Lead doses will eventually accumulate, increasing the possibility of health risks.

Symptoms of lead poisoning differ for children and adults. When lead enters the body, it replaces iron, calcium, and other minerals in the blood which are extremely important during the stages of growth and development. Because young children require more minerals to grow and develop, they are thus more vulnerable to lead poisoning. There are some general symptoms which have serious effects on specific body systems.

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