It can damage the brain, kidneys, and nervous system of young children.
Low levels can cause learning and behavioral problems.
Very high levels can cause retardation, convulsions, and coma. Children are most often poisoned by lead paint in older homes. The most common sources of lead poisoning are lead dust and lead chips from lead painted areas. Lead dust can come from opening and closing windows, normal wear and tear of painted areas, and repairing areas with lead paint. Lead dust settles to the floor and gets on children's hands and toys.