Lead is a naturally occuring substance that can cause serious damage to developing children, pregnant women, and even adults. 

Picture of the symbol for lead on the periodic table

Lead is a metal found in nature. Lead was used for thousands of years - in bullets, pipes, construction, and paint. Eventually, people learned that lead is dangerous if it gets into our bodies.

Lead is sneaky. Your body may confuse lead for calcium and absorb it in all the places where calcium should go. Unlike calcium, there is no useful purpose for lead in our bodies. Lead is particularly bad for kids under 6 years old.

What lead can do to children

Description of the harmful effects of lead on children's health. Lead can cause a lower IQ, decreased ability to pay attention, and under performance at school

CDC Lead Information

Lead Poisoning is Preventable!

Lead poisoning is 100% preventable!

  1. Talk to your child's doctor about a simple blood lead test.
  2. Contact the Lead Paint Project or the Maine Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program about a free home lead dust test kit.
  3. Renovate safely. Common renovation activities like sanding and replacing windows can create hazardous lead dust.
    1. Look for contractors certified by the Environmental Protection Agency.
  4. Remove recalled toys and toy jewelry from children and get rid of them if appropriate. Stay up to date on toy recalls with the Consumer Product Safety Commission's website.