Loyola University Chicago

Healthy Homes & Healthy Communities

Ripple effects of childhood lead poisoning

In addition to causing health and behavioral problems in children, lead poisoning may result in serious costs to both a child’s future and to society.

Childhood Lead Poisoning

Lead is not safe at any level. Lead poisoning can cause permanent brain damage in children, and possible damage to the central nervous system, kidneys, and reproductive system.

Learning Disabilities

Lead in the blood is linked to symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

Hyperactivity

Lead in the blood is linked to hyperactivity and lower IQ as measured by IQ tests.

Speech Disorders

Lead poisoning can cause damage to the brain and nervous system resulting in speech delay.

Childhood Delinquency

Lead poisoning can lead to aggression and criminal behavior.

Reduced Intelligence/ Lower IQ Scores

It is estimated that children who are lead poisoned below 10 µg/dL, the threshold for most legislation, will lose 5–7 IQ points.

Crime in Adulthood

Lead poisoning in childhood has been connected to more arrests and/or arrests for violent offenses as adults.

Behavioral Disorders

Lead poisoning has been associated with inattention, impulsivity, delays in reaction time, and hyperactivity.

 

Cost to Child’s Future

Academic Failure

As the amount of lead in a child’s blood increases, research shows a decrease in math and reading scores.

Learning Difficulties

Childhood lead poisoning can affect the ability of the brain and nervous system to work together to connect thinking and behavior.

Lack of Employment

For each IQ point that is lost, a child makes an estimated $16,809 less over the course of his or her lifetime.

Life-long Health Problems

At high levels, lead poisoning causes damage to the child’s central nervous system, kidneys, and reproductive system.

Criminal Record

The estimated total direct costs of violent crimes linked to early childhood lead poisoning is nearly $1.8 billion.

Socialization Problems

Lead poisoning affects the parts of the brain that control moods, planning, and decision-making.

 

Costs to Society

Healthcare

Preventing childhood lead poisoning in the U.S. could save up to $44 million per year in healthcare costs.

Joblessness

Childhood lead poisoning has been shown to cause loss of IQ points, life-long illnesses, and lower academic achievement—all of which can affect the ability to hold down a job.

Special Education

There is a strong link between childhood lead poisoning and a need for special education due to lowered IQ and impaired neurobehavioral function.

Juvenile Justice

The estimated total direct costs of violent crimes linked to early childhood lead poisoning is nearly $1.8 billion.