Lead Program

100 A Southwest Boulevard • PO Box 389 Newton, NC 28658 • 828-465-8270

Environmental Health
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WHAT IS LEAD?

Lead is a dangerous poison that damages every system in the body. Lead is especially dangerous to fetuses and young children because lead is harmful to the developing brain and nervous system. Lead in a child's system hinders neurological development and can lower intelligence. The Centers for Disease Control states that lead poisoning is the most common and devastating environmental disease affecting young children. The long term effects of lead can be severe, and include learning disabilities, slowed growth, hyperactivity, impaired hearing, and brain damage.

WHERE IS LEAD FOUND?

On painted surfaces:
shingle

Lead paint is the major source of lead poisoning in the home. About 75% of U.S. homes and apartments constructed before 1978 contain lead paint, according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Lead paint can also be found on older toys and furniture. Children can be poisoned by chewing on painted surfaces or eating paint chips. Another common cause is lead dust which is released by peeling or chipping paint and deposited on window sashes, porch floors, and other surfaces.

In the soil:
Soil can be contaminated by chips and dust from exterior lead paint, past use of lead-based insecticides, and other lead containing chemicals or objects such as automobile batteries. The highest levels of lead in soil are usually found close to the foundations of homes painted with exterior leaded paint.

In water:
The Environmental Protection Agency estimates that drinking water accounts for about 20% of lead exposure. The water can be contaminated through lead water pipes, plumbing fittings of brass and bronze, and lead solder used to connect copper pipes. The greatest risk is to infants on formula mixed with contaminated water.

In food:
Food can be contaminated if it is grown near sources of lead pollution, stored or baked in poorly glazed pottery (especially if the food is acidic), prepared by people with lead dust on their hands, or stored in lead crystal for prolonged periods of time. Leaded crystal can leach lead quickly into acidic liquids such as wine or fruit juices.

>>Other Sources of Lead

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