Decline in Lead Levels and Mortality in the United States Following the Ban on Lead Paint

The graphic displays the average blood lead level (μg/dL) in the United States across age groups from 1990 to 2021, along with the number of lead-related deaths and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs).

Between 1990 and 2021, blood lead levels in the United States decreased across all age groups, leading to a decline in lead exposure-related deaths and Disability-adjusted life years (DALYs). Key legislative actions contributed to this improvement. In 1971, the U.S. banned lead-based paint in residential buildings funded by the federal government. In 1996, the Clean Air Act eliminated leaded gasoline for on-road vehicles.

By January 2024, 48% of countries, including the U.S., had enacted legally binding regulations to control the production, sale, and use of lead paints, further reducing exposure risks. These combined measures have significantly reduced lead-related health impacts over time.

Gould's study shows that investing in lead hazard control can yield a return of $17 to $221 for every dollar spent, resulting in total savings of $181 billion to $269 billion.