Which population group is most at risk with lead exposure?

Small children are considered the population group most at risk with lead exposure due to several critical factors. Their developing bodies and brains make them particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of lead. Young children often explore their environment through touch and ingestion, leading to a higher likelihood of consuming lead-contaminated materials, such as lead-based paint chips or dust from older buildings.

Additionally, children are in a rapid stage of growth and development, meaning that any neurotoxic effects of lead can have a more significant impact on their cognitive abilities and overall health. Studies have shown that lead exposure can impair a child's cognitive development, leading to issues like decreased IQ, language delays, and attention problems.

While adults, teenagers, and pregnant women are also at risk from lead exposure—adults may face occupational hazards, teenagers might come into contact with lead from various sources, and pregnant women can pass lead onto their unborn children—small children remain the most vulnerable group due to their unique developmental characteristics and behaviors.