What is a health effect of long-term exposure to lead?

Long-term exposure to lead is primarily associated with neurological damage. Lead is a potent neurotoxin, particularly harmful to the developing brains of children. Prolonged exposure can lead to cognitive deficits, reduced IQ, attention problems, and even behavioral issues. In adults, chronic lead exposure can also result in peripheral neuropathy and can affect mood and mental health.

Although other health effects can occur due to different exposures, such as skin irritation from certain chemicals or respiratory illness from specific pollutants, these are not typically associated with lead. Cardiovascular disease has some association with lead, particularly in terms of hypertension, but neurological effects are more distinctive and significant in terms of both prevalence and severity. Therefore, the link between lead exposure and neurological damage is well-established and critical for understanding the serious risks posed by lead in the environment.