Lead Poisons Children

Why we care…

Lead poisoning is entirely preventable. However, nearly 1 million children living in the United States have blood levels high enough to impair their ability to think, learn, and concentrate. Lead poisoning is still a serious issue in the Upper Valley. Children are particularly vulnerable, and many remain overdue for routine blood lead level testing. Our region faces elevated risks due to older housing stock and aging water systems, which can both be sources of lead exposure.

For more data about lead exposure in the Upper Valley Region of New Hampshire, see this 2023 Lead Exposure Data Brief.

Lead poisons people - especially children

How much is too much lead for a child?

There is no safe amount of lead in the body. Even low levels can harm children.

Lead is a highly toxic metal once used in paint, plumbing, pottery, and many household and industrial products.
Too much lead can cause serious and permanent health problems.
Children under age 6 are at highest risk because their blood-brain barrier is still developing.
Lead exposure can result in:
- Brain damage
- Learning disabilities
- Attention disorders and hyperactivity
- Behavioral problems
- Reduced intelligence
Pregnant women and unborn babies are also especially vulnerable.
The only way to know if a child has been exposed is with a simple blood test at a child’s regular check-up.
Vermont and New Hampshire laws require all children be tested at ages 1 and 2.

Lead poisoning can be prevented when you know what to look for.

Exposure: About 70% of homes in Vermont and 62% of homes in New Hampshire were built before 1978, the year lead in house paint was banned.

While a major source of lead exposure in New Hampshire and Vermont children is paint, lead in older plumbing and fixtures can add to a child’s overall lead exposure.

Lead exposure poses a special risk to young children because they absorb lead into their systems more easily than adults do.

Testing: New Hampshire and Vermont both require that all children are tested for lead exposure at ages 1 and 2. Ask your doctor about having YOUR children tested with a simple finger stick right at the doctor’s office. Results available within a few minutes.

Watch this leading screening informational video produced by NH Public Health