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Drinking water from lead pipes can cause serious, often permanent, damage to nearly every organ and system in the body, including the brain, kidneys, and nervous system. Children and pregnant women are especially vulnerable, and even low levels of exposure can cause harm over time. [1, 2, 3, 4]

Effects on Children

Children are at the greatest risk because their developing bodies absorb lead more easily, and the effects can be permanent.

• Brain and Nervous System Damage: This is the most significant risk, potentially leading to irreversible brain damage.
• Developmental and Learning Problems: Includes lowered IQ, learning difficulties, hyperactivity, and behavior problems.
• Physical Health Issues: Includes slowed growth, hearing loss, and anemia.
• Behavioral Issues: Irritability, sluggishness, fatigue, and loss of appetite are common symptoms.
• Gastrointestinal Distress: Abdominal pain, vomiting, and constipation. [1, 3, 6]

Effects on Adults

While children are more susceptible, lead exposure in adults can also lead to significant, long-term health problems.

• Cardiovascular Issues: Increased blood pressure and the incidence of hypertension.
• Kidney Damage: Decreased kidney function is a known effect.
• Reproductive Problems: Reduced sperm count and abnormal sperm in men, and miscarriage, stillbirth, or premature birth in pregnant women. Lead stored in a mother's bones can be released during pregnancy, exposing the fetus.
• Nervous System Issues: Headaches, joint and muscle pain, memory and concentration problems, and nerve damage.
• Gastrointestinal Distress: Abdominal pain, nausea, and constipation.
• Mood and Energy: Mood disorders, fatigue, and irritability. [1, 3, 8, 9]

General and Severe Outcomes

Lead accumulates in the body over time, and there is no safe level of exposure. In extreme cases, very high lead levels in both children and adults can lead to seizures, unconsciousness, coma, and even death. [1, 2, 10, 11]

If you suspect you have lead pipes or lead in your drinking water, contact your local health department or a healthcare provider for testing and guidance. More information is available from the

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

and the CDC.

AI responses may include mistakes.

[1] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/lead-poisoning/symptoms-causes/syc-20354717

[2] https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/DrinkingWater/lead.html

[3] https://www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water/basic-information-about-lead-drinking-water

[4] https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dep/programs-and-services/water/bureau-of-safe-drinking-water/public-drinking-water/public-notification/lead-in-drinking-water

[5] https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/infections-and-poisoning/lead-poisoning/

[6] https://extension.psu.edu/lead-in-drinking-water

[7] https://www.health.state.mn.us/communities/environment/water/factsheet/letitrun_english.html

[8] https://www.health.state.mn.us/communities/environment/water/factsheet/letitrun_english.html

[9] https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/lead/signs-symptoms/index.html

[10] https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/lead-poisoning

[11] https://www.health.state.mn.us/communities/environment/water/wells/waterquality/lead.html

[12] https://www.saukcity.net/vertical/sites/%7B4E3188F1-DD40-422F-A8CE-A991AFA87553%7D/uploads/Notice_of_confirmed_lead_service_line.pdf

[13] https://www.apmreports.org/story/2020/05/04/epa-lead-pipes-drinking-water

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Henry McClure 

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