Why Test for Lead?

Lead is a toxic metal that has been used for centuries and can still be found in everyday items like paint, ceramics, dishes, children’s toys, playgrounds, cosmetics, pipes, batteries, shooting ranges, water, and soil.

Lead paint is a significant source of lead exposure, especially in homes built before the 1980s. Deteriorating paint or renovations can spread harmful lead dust and chips. Lead paint can also be found on decorated dishes like plates and glasses. When deteriorating, lead can contaminate food.

It is harmful to everyone, but it poses a significant health risk to children. Lead poisoning can damage the brain and cause learning, hearing, speech, and behavior problems, significantly impacting a child’s life. In severe cases, lead poisoning can cause anemia, seizures, coma, or death.

Lead exposure affects 1 in 3 children worldwide. Nearly 1 million people die each year due to lead poisoning. The lead poisoning crisis concerns every country, from the poorest to the wealthiest. Lead poisoning knows no border.