Lead exposure seriously harms children's health

What the research found

Victorian health guidance says lead exposure can impair intellectual development and damage the brain if levels are high enough. It says young children, including unborn babies, are at greatest risk, and children under five are most affected. It advises that all children's exposure should be kept as low as possible.

Australia's national health research council reviewed the evidence on lead and human health. It says infants, children and pregnant women are at greatest risk of harm. Its review focused on low levels of lead, because evidence suggests health effects may occur at lower blood lead levels than once thought.

A 2023 clinical review says lead toxicity is particularly concerning for children six and under, because their brains develop rapidly and are likely to be affected even by low levels. A 2004 randomised trial describes childhood lead poisoning as a common disease despite public health efforts that have cut its rates.

What it doesn’t mean

• Harm depends on how much lead a child is exposed to, for how long, their age and other health conditions.
• Children mostly swallow lead in paint chips, dust or soil, or breathe in dust. Older paint, renovations and some hobbies are common sources, so keep children away from these.
• If you are worried about your child's exposure, see your GP or child health nurse about a blood test for lead.