Who is at Greatest Risk of Lead Poisoning?

Information by State  Print version   In This Section Lead and Its Health Effects   What are the Effects of Lead Poisoning on Health?   Who is at Greatest Risk of Lead Poisoning?   How Do People Get Lead-Poisoned?   What is Lead-Based Paint and What is a Lead Hazard?

Anyone exposed to lead can suffer from lead poisoning. However, certain groups face higher risks from lead poisoning than others. These groups include:

1. Children are the most vulnerable to exposure to lead-based paint because their bodies and nervous systems are still developing rapidly. The effects of lead poisoning are most severe for children under age six and the unborn.
   
   
2. Pregnant women face higher risks because of lead's effects on the developing fetus. Lead poisoning can cause miscarriages, premature births, and low birth weight.
   
   
3. People working with lead in their jobs who perform rehabilitation, renovation and abatement activities have higher risks of lead poisoning. Workers at risk may include: painters, maintenance workers, renovators and remodelers, and abatement contractors.