Many Homes Have Dangerous Levels of Lead

February 2009

You may not realize that the dangers of lead poisoning could be lurking in your home. Although common products like house paint have been lead-free for years, 40 percent of all U.S. homes contain lead with potentially toxic effects.

These risks are especially dangerous for children, and unborn children are most vulnerable. In fact, about one in 20 children have high levels of lead in their blood. Lead is inhaled or ingested from sources like dust created by stripping or sanding lead house paint, contaminated paint chips, water from old lead pipes, and paint in imported items.

Lead poisoning symptoms in children include vomiting, sluggishness, irritability, and learning difficulties. Adults may have headaches, mood disorders, memory loss, and weak muscles. Here are some tips to avoid lead contamination in your home:

• Read labels carefully before you buy anything
• When cooking, drinking, and making baby formula, run cold water from the tap for at least one minute before using
• Don't purchase items like candies, children's products, and canned goods that are made outside of the U.S.
• Avoid areas outside your home, like playground equipment, that have chipping or peeling paint
• Keep dust levels low
• Wash your hands before eating