Lead in Drinking Water
There is no safe level of lead in drinking water.
Lead in drinking water poses serious health risks, particularly for children and pregnant women. In young children, even low levels of lead exposure can impair brain development, reduce IQ, and cause behavioral issues. Lead exposure is so detrimental to healthy development that the American Academy of Pediatrics’ (AAP) released a statement on the Prevention of Childhood Lead Toxicity. The statement places schools–where the vast majority of children spend the vast majority of their time–at the center of efforts to protect kids. The AAP recommends state and local governments “ensure that water fountains in schools do not exceed water lead concentrations of 1 ppb.”
UNC Superfund Research Program
In adults, low blood lead concentrations are also linked with dangers, including high blood pressure, kidney damage, and reproductive problems. And because lead accumulates in the body over time, prolonged exposure—even in small amounts—can lead to chronic health complications.
In other words, there is no safe level of lead in drinking water, which is why minimizing exposure is crucial for long-term health and well-being.
Watch a video explaining how one organization used this equipment at St. Paul School District Tests for Lead.
