Why are children especially vulnerable to the effects of lead poisoning?

Children are especially vulnerable to lead poisoning primarily because their brain and nervous system are still in critical stages of development. Because these systems are actively growing, even small amounts of lead can cause permanent damage and loss of function.1

Furthermore, children are at a higher risk of exposure due to behavioral factors, such as the tendency to chew on painted toys or furnishings and ingest paint peelings from walls. When lead accumulates in a child's body, it can lead to severe, long-term complications, including learning disabilities, slowed growth, blindness, deafness, and in extreme cases, convulsions, coma, or death. While lead exposure is harmful to individuals of all ages, the potential for irreversible cognitive deficits makes the protection of children from this toxic chemical element a critical public health priority.12