Blood lead levels in young children in the United States declined in the last decade, but state data reveal that children of color and children from low-wealth families are still exposed to higher levels of lead, according to a June 11 study in the American Journal of Public Health. The study emphasizes that no level of lead in children's blood is safe.
The research was conducted by experts affiliated with Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and Project TENDR, an alliance focused on protecting children from toxic chemicals affecting brain development. Scientists analyzed trends among U.S. children under five using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) as well as state-level information from Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, and South Dakota. While national data did not show disparities by race or socioeconomic status, state-level findings indicated higher exposure for certain groups—particularly those living in older housing or belonging to racial and ethnic minorities.
The study also identified new sources contributing to elevated blood lead levels, including food products, cosmetics, spices, cookware, and traditional medicines. "Old and new sources of lead continue to put children of color and children from low-wealth families at greater risk of lead exposure that jeopardizes their academic prospects," said co-author Aimin Chen, professor at the University of Pennsylvania Medical School. "Health care providers and policymakers need to understand that lead is still a serious issue for some children."
In October 2025 layoffs led the Trump administration to close NHANES—a program active since 1971 tracking Americans' health trends related to toxic exposures. Five decades of NHANES data show steep declines in children's blood lead levels following federal efforts such as removing lead from gasoline and paint; however, recent surveys lacked enough participants to fully capture current disparities.
"The NHANES health surveys are an essential tool to understand and address national health trends," said co-author Mark Mitchell with the National Medical Association. "NHANES needs to be restored and expanded. We need more states to collect data by sociodemographic categories so we get a more accurate understanding of lead risks in our communities and more effectively address the needs of the highest risk populations." The authors recommend restoring NHANES operations along with increased screening for high-risk groups; prompt sharing of results by governments; and better communication with families about blood testing results.
