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Lead poisoning is entirely preventable and, in most cases, goes unnoticed until its long-term effects including brain damage, learning disabilities, developmental delay, and behavioral and attention problems are evident.

The main sources of lead in South Carolina are related to contaminated soil and dust, and chipping lead-based paint in older houses, particularly those built prior to 1950. Certain occupations/vocations, such as those related to battery manufacture and hobbies or crafts involving the use of lead, such as stained glass and ceramics, also present higher risks of exposure. Some children have also been poisoned by imported vinyl mini-blinds and toys.

Although it is important to screen children to detect cases of lead poisoning and provide them with follow-up care, it is far more important to try to prevent children from being exposed to lead. Public and parental awareness of common sources of lead, proper hand washing, and good nutrition all help limit the amount of lead to which children are exposed.

To learn more about lead, check out the Centers for Disease Control's web pages at, or call our toll-free number (1-866-466-5323).

You can also learn more by downloading two of our Look Out For Lead brochures.

The EPA's website has information about sources of lead in older homes.

For information about Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention in SC, contact M. L. Tanner, Program Manager, at tannerml@dph.sc.gov or call toll-free 1(866) 466-5323 [1-866-4NO-LEAD].

Lead is a metal that occurs naturally in the Earth's surface. Lead has many uses, but it is toxic to people and animals. People may be exposed to lead by ingesting lead paint chips or dust, ingesting contaminated food or water, and/or by breathing in lead dust. Airborne lead dust can be a component of particulate matter (PM).

Lead can be found in many different places, including:

  • Leaded gas (which is no longer sold in the U.S.),
  • Paint found in old houses and on some cars,
  • Smelters - which are used in metal refineries,
  • The manufacturing process of lead storage batteries, and
  • Contaminated soil and dust.

  • Brain and other nervous system damage, especially in children
  • Digestive problems
  • Reproductive system damage
  • Kidney damage
  • Learning disabilities in children

  • Can be harmful to wildlife.
  • Contaminated soil can damage plants.

  • Don't disturb, handle, or eat paint chips.
  • Wash your hands immediately after touching or handling dirt, and never eat dirt.

Drinking Water and Lead

Childhood Lead Dashboard