Today, in the United States there are still approximately 1 million lead-poisoned children.
Lead poisoning is a preventable disease seen in both children and adults.
Children between six months to six years of age face the greatest danger of lead poisoning. Lead-based paint that has deteriorated into paint chips and a lead dust remain the main source of contamination. Lead poisoning can occur in every region, race, and socio-economic level. Children living near a lead-using plant or in poorly maintained housing may be at a higher risk. Lead is a powerful neurotoxin that interferes with the development and functioning of almost all body organs, particularly the kidneys, red blood cells, cardiovascular and central nervous systems.