Lead gets into the body when it is swallowed or inhaled. People, especially
children, can swallow lead dust as they eat, play, and do other normal
hand-to-mouth activities. People may also breathe in lead dust or fumes if
they disturb lead-based paint. People who sand, scrape, burn, brush, blast
or otherwise disturb lead-based paint risk unsafe exposure to lead.
Lead is especially dangerous to children under 6 years of age.
Lead can affect children's brains and developing nervous systems, causing:

. Reduced IQ and learning disabilities.
. Behavioral problems.


Even children who appear healthy can have dangerous levels of lead in their
bodies.
Lead is also harmful to adults. In adults, low levels of lead can pose many
dangers, including:
. High blood pressure and hypertension.
. Pregnant women exposed to lead can transfer lead to their fetus.