Lead exposure occurs when lead dust or fumes are inhaled, or when lead is ingested via contaminated hands, food, water, cigarettes or clothing. Lead entering the respiratory and digestive systems is released to the blood and distributed throughout the body. Lead in bones may be released into the blood, re-exposing organ systems long after the original exposure. The toxic nature of lead is well documented.
Lead affects all organs and functions of the body to varying degrees.
The frequency and severity of symptoms among exposed individuals depends upon the amount of exposure. The table below shows many of the key lead-induced health effects. There is some evidence of potential physiologic problems. Some exposure is occurring. Providers who are in a contractual arrangement with an employer should know their responsibilities to the employer and workers.