Factors influencing exposure of children to lead

Abstract

Paint samples from 56 homes of 103 children aged 1-14 years were obtained. The lead content of the samples was related to the age of the building and to the social class of the family; 53% of the samples contained more than 1% of lead. Old houses, and families of low social class, were frequently associated with indoor paints of high lead content. Lead paint applied several decades ago, even if infrequently covered by other paint, may still continue to provide a potential hazard. Detection and removal of lead paint already in situ should therefore be the aim in preventing lead poisoning of children from this source.