The lead crisis in America is a serious public health issue that disproportionately affects low-income communities and communities of color. Lead is a toxic metal that can cause a range of health problems, including developmental problems in children, damage to the brain and nervous system, and increased risk of heart disease, kidney disease, and cancer.

The primary source of lead exposure in the United States is from lead-contaminated drinking water. Lead can leach into drinking water from old lead pipes, fixtures, and solder. Lead can also enter drinking water from industrial sources, such as mining and smelting operations.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set a maximum contaminant level (MCL) for lead in drinking water of 15 parts per billion (ppb). However, even at low levels, lead can be harmful to health. The EPA recommends that all public water systems test their water for lead and take steps to reduce lead levels if they exceed the MCL.

In addition to testing public water systems for lead, there are a number of other steps that can be taken to address the lead crisis. These steps include:

* Replacing old lead pipes, fixtures, and solder.

* Using water filters that remove lead.

* Flushing water pipes before drinking water.

* Avoiding drinking water from public fountains or other sources that may not be tested for lead.

The lead crisis is a serious public health issue, but it is one that can be solved. By taking steps to reduce lead exposure, we can protect the health of our children and our communities.

Additional Resources

* [EPA's Lead in Drinking Water website](https://www.epa.gov/lead/learn-about-lead)

* [CDC's Lead Poisoning Prevention website](https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/lead/)

* [NRDC's Lead in Drinking Water website](https://www.nrdc.org/stories/lead-drinking-water-problem)