There are many pathways to lead exposure - paint, dust, water, soil, toys, glazed ceramics (dishware), hobby gear and materials, as well as residue from certain occupations. Lead is a known neurotoxin, which means it impairs developing brains. Exposure can lead to many other health impacts including hearing and speech problems, developmental delays, decreased kidney function and premature birth. There is no amount of "safe" exposure to lead. This summer our executive director wrote a letter to the editor, published in the Post-Gazette:

The good news is lead poisoning is preventable. There are simple steps you can take in the home to avoid lead exposure, such as frequent wet mopping, dusting, and washing hands. Professionals should always be consulted for renovations on homes built before 1978. We have compiled a fact sheet that lists additional actions here.

Thanks to the generous support of The Heinz Endowments, Women for a Healthy Environment continues to distribute water pitchers that filter for lead to those in the Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority service area most at risk - pregnant women and households with children under the age of six. Here are tips for avoiding lead exposure in drinking water.

If you would like WHE staff to present on lead exposures and solutions to your community group, free of charge, contact our office at 412-404-2872 or [email protected].