Even at low doses, Pb exposure is associated with changes in processes of the body. Children and fetuses are especially susceptible to low doses of Pb, often suffering central nervous system damage or slowed growth. Low-level Pb poisoning may have nonspecific symptoms such as headaches, abdominal pain, and irritability. High blood-lead levels in children may cause permanent deficiencies in growth and intelligence. In adults, high blood-lead concentrations may cause kidney disorders, infertility, and cancer.
Studies also indicate a correlation between high blood-lead levels and increased blood pressure.
These regulations were rewritten in 1998. The lead monitoring requirements of the 70's focused primarily upon determining the air quality impacts from major roadways and urban traffic arterial highways. After the use of lead in gasoline was banned, this extensive monitoring was no longer necessary. In fact, EPA has reduced its requirements for measuring lead air pollutant concentrations near major highways, yet retains its focus on point sources and their impacts on neighboring populations. Thanks to tough lead regulations and vigorous enforcement of those regulations, there are no stationary lead emitting sources with over a 5 tons per year emission rate in the state of Oklahoma.