Lead poisoning is the greatest environmental health threat to children under the age of 6. Poisoning occurs from swallowing lead (i.e. lead paint chips) or from breathing lead paint dust. Even small amounts of chipped lead paint or lead dust can be dangerous to children. Children under 6 face greater lead poisoning risks because their growing bodies absorb lead more easily than adult bodies do. Children and babies also put their hands and objects into their mouths often and thereby can easily ingest lead paint chips and dust found in the home and on furniture.

Millions of American children are affected by lead poisoning. Children who live in old, poorly maintained housing or in housing that has undergone renovation face the greatest risk. Children exposed to flaking or peeling paint chips face the greatest risk of lead disease. Studies have shown that high lead levels may cause damage to the nervous system, brain injuries, seizures, growth retardation, loss of hearing, headaches, learning disabilities, and behavioral problems such as hyperactivity. Furthermore, very high levels of lead may cause coma, convulsion and spontaneous death. Adults with elevated lead levels suffer from reproductive problems, problems during pregnancy, nerve disorders, memory loss and concentration problems, digestion problems, high blood pressure, muscle pain and joint pain.

If your building was built before 1978 it is very possible that lead paint was used. Peeling paint is a clear signal that lead paint may have been used in your home. If this is the case we would recommend that you and your children have a blood-lead test. A blood lead test is the only accurate way to diagnose lead poisoning.