![A young child smiles while being held by the mother during a visit to the doctor](/Programs/CCDPHP/DEODC/CLPPB/PublishingImages/Pages/Lead-Poisoning/GettyImages-612620400-250x167.jpg)
![A worker with full protective gear, including goggles and a respiratory face mask, holding a blowtorch next to a lead hazard warning sign](/Programs/CCDPHP/DEODC/CLPPB/PublishingImages/Pages/Lead-Poisoning/GettyImages-589960322-151x167.jpg)
![A happy and healthy African-American family at home with mother, father, and two small children](/Programs/CCDPHP/DEODC/CLPPB/PublishingImages/Pages/Lead-Poisoning/GettyImages-509567141-250x167.jpg)
![Home painter kneeling beside cans of paint at a work site](/Programs/CCDPHP/DEODC/CLPPB/PublishingImages/Pages/Lead-Poisoning/lead_prof_icon_2-150x167.jpg)
Preventing Lead Poisoning in Children and Adults
Lead is a toxic metal that has been used in many products over time. Even in small amounts, lead can have harmful effects on the body, which may lead to lifelong learning, behavioral, reproductive, cardiovascular, and other health problems. While many leaded products have been phased out, lead may still be found in and around older homes and buildings, in certain occupations and hobbies, and some consumer products, remedies, and foods. Lead poisoning is one of the most common environmental illnesses in California, but is completely preventable.
For more information about lead poisoning and prevention, please visit the
Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Branch or the
Occupational Lead Poisoning Prevention Program websites, or choose from the links provided below.