The developing nervous system of children is by far the most sensitive to lead exposure. Because of a child's small size and greater absorption of lead, even a very low level of exposure results in a high dose of lead. The developing nervous system is exquisitely sensitive to the effects of even small amounts of lead, resulting in life-long learning deficits. Exposure to lead at an early age clearly deprives children of their ability to express their genetic potential. The optimal action is to avoid lead exposure and ensure children and pregnant women have an adequate diet with appropriate calcium and iron. Additional recommendations include washing hands frequently and taking off shoes to reduce dust in the home.

On a broader scale, we need to reduce the use of lead in a wide range of consumer products. Clearly this starts with products meant for children such as toys, vinyl plastics, jewelry, and candy. Large amounts of lead are distributed in the environment from a variety of sources such as lead fishing sinkers, car wheel weights, and bullets used in hunting and target practice. Most importantly, we must reduce the number of homes contaminated with lead-based paint. Many of these changes will require legislative or regulatory changes and acceptance that these changes benefit society. Finally, the CDC must review and lower the blood lead action level to send a clear message that no level of child lead exposure is acceptable.

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