Lead can be found in all parts of the environment as the result of human activities such as the burning of fossil fuels, mining and manufacturing. Despite past major reductions and the elimination of lead from gasoline, lead remains a contaminant of great concern. Listed as a "reasonably anticipated" carcinogen in the 2005 Report on Carcinogens, lead can damage the blood, brain, nerves, kidneys, reproductive organs, and immune system of humans. It is widespread in our nation's toxic waste sites, homes and workplaces, with many opportunities for people to be exposed through water, food, and air. With emphasis on impacts of low-level exposure on maternal and children's health and methods of prevention, current SBRP-funded research is devoted to ascertaining the health effects associated with lead exposure and the underlying mechanisms for these effects.
Use the search tools below to find additional information about SBRP-funded lead research projects.
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