State of the Environment - Toxics of Special Concern Toxics of Special Concern Lead and Children Lead is a naturally occurring metal that has been used for centuries. For example, it is found in piping, building materials, solders, paint and ammunition. Its primary uses in recent years have been in lead-acid storage batteries, metal products, chemicals and pigments. Since lead was banned by EPA in gasoline, paint, pipes, solder, food cans and other products, lead levels in Indiana have dropped dramatically. Excessive exposure to lead can cause elevated blood-lead levels in adults and children.
Lead poses special dangers to children age six and younger.
Lead levels that do not harm adults can slow down and permanently damage the normal mental and physical development of children. According to the Indiana State Department of Health, the percentage of Indiana children with higher than normal lead levels is greater than the national average. From 1994-96, more than 100,000 Indiana children age six and younger were screened, and 11 percent had elevated levels of lead in their blood. Lead paint in homes is believed to be the major source of lead poisoning. Paint manufactured after 1978 does not contain lead.