Which population is at the highest risk from lead exposure?

Infants and young children are at the highest risk from lead exposure due to several critical factors related to their developmental biology and behavior. Their bodies and brains are still developing, making them more susceptible to the toxic effects of lead, which can have lasting impacts on cognitive function and overall development.

Children naturally engage in behaviors that increase their exposure risk, such as crawling on the floor, mouthing objects, and putting their hands in their mouths. They tend to ingest more dust and soil relative to their body weight than adults do, making them more vulnerable to lead contamination found in these environments.

Furthermore, lead exposure in early childhood is particularly concerning as it can lead to developmental delays, learning disabilities, and other severe health issues. The developing nervous system of infants and young children is more sensitive to the harmful effects of lead, which can result in irreversible damage. Public health initiatives often focus on this population to monitor and mitigate lead exposure and its associated risks.

While other groups, such as pregnant women and adults over 50, also face risks from lead exposure, the acute impact on young children's development places them at the highest level of concern.