Lead poisoning causes many serious health problems for both children (including learning difficulties and behavioral issues) and adults (such as damage to kidneys and reproductive organs, and high blood pressure).

Younger children are especially at risk because their bodies absorb more lead as their brains are still developing. The most common source of lead exposure in a home is deteriorated lead-based paint and household dust containing lead. Less common sources can include contaminated drinking water and soil, keys, imported toys, spices, cosmetics, pottery and ceramics, and other consumer products

Ramsey County has sharply reduced the number of children exposed to lead paint hazards through our lead window replacement program.

Data on the use of grant funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the City of Saint Paul to replace deteriorating windows painted with lead-based paint.

The percentage of Ramsey County children under age 6 with elevated blood lead levels (above 5 mg/dL) for years 2011-2015 and new cases of elevated blood lead levels per year from 2012 through 2016.

Dataset showing lead blood level screening results for children younger than 6 years old by county.