While the lowest reportable blood lead level varies from state to state, the reporting of all blood lead levels is recommended because it is extremely useful for the analysis of trends in these data. Analysis and dissemination of results is at the core of the national approach to elimination of lead poisoning. The Problem Lead has been recognized as a health hazard since ancient times. Recently, about 95 percent of adults with elevated blood lead levels are exposed occupationally. Workers exposed to lead can experience anemia, nervous system dysfunction, kidney problems, hypertension, decreased fertility, and increased miscarriages.
Workers can bring lead home from their workplace and unknowingly expose their families.
Children exposed to low levels of lead may exhibit symptoms of neurologic damage, including learning disabilities and short attention spans. Children who come in contact with lead-exposed workers should be targeted for blood lead screening. Participating states, contact persons within those states, and available publications are listed here.