Which population is at higher risk for lead poisoning?

Children living in older homes with lead-based paint are at higher risk for lead poisoning due to the presence of lead in the paint and dust that can accumulate in these environments. Homes built before 1978 are particularly concerning, as that is when the U.S. banned the use of lead-based paints for residential properties. These older homes may have chipping or peeling paint, which can create lead dust or chips that young children might ingest through hand-to-mouth behavior, which is common in toddlers and infants.

The risk for lead poisoning increases in these settings because lead exposure can have serious and lasting effects on children's health, including developmental delays and cognitive impairments. Thus, the living environment plays a critical role in determining the likelihood of lead exposure, highlighting the importance of addressing lead hazards in homes, particularly those that house children.