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Lead can be found in homes and buildings and can cause illness if exposure continues. Lead exposure may occur from ingesting food or drinks that contain lead, being exposed to lead-based paint, or using medication that contains lead. Long-term and high-level exposure in adults can cause brain and kidney damage and may lead to reproductive health problems. Lead exposure in pregnant women may cause an increased risk for pre-term delivery or low infant birth rates.
Children are more vulnerable to lead poisoning than adults because their nervous systems are still developing. Their bodies absorb more lead during exposure than adults. Children are also more sensitive to the effects of lead. Babies and small children can swallow or breathe in lead from contaminated dirt, dust, or sand while playing on the ground or floor. Lead exposure in children can affect a child's learning, behavior, and growth.
For information on blood lead testing, please call (417) 874-2253.