The objective of this section is to help users to identify the tools to assess risks to public health with regard to lead and to manage those risks appropriately.
Lead is a toxic metal whose widespread use has caused extensive environmental contamination and health problems in many parts of the world. It is a cumulative toxicant that affects multiple body systems, including the neurologic, hematologic, gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and renal systems. Children are particularly vulnerable to the neurotoxic effects of lead, and even relatively low levels of exposure can cause serious and in some cases irreversible neurological damage.
In order to set up or improve the public health management of lead further information is provided, including tools for action, norms, guidelines and education material.