EPA Lead Risk Assessor Practice Exam – Complete Test Prep 2026

Lead exposure is particularly harmful to children under six years of age due to several critical factors related to their developing bodies and brains. At this age, children's brains and nervous systems are still maturing, making them more susceptible to the neurotoxic effects of lead. Even low levels of lead exposure can lead to significant developmental problems, cognitive deficits, and behavioral issues. Additionally, children are more likely to ingest lead because they tend to put objects in their mouths and explore their environment in ways that increase their exposure risk.

While adults, pregnant women, and elderly individuals can also be affected by lead exposure, the impact on young children is particularly severe and can result in lasting consequences that hinder their overall development and cognitive function. This heightened vulnerability to lead's harmful effects in young children underscores the importance of preventive measures and interventions aimed at reducing exposure in environments where children live and play.