Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the significant impact of lead exposure on blood lead levels, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, where nearly half of children exceed the safe action level of 50μg/L [1][2]. Group 1: Lead Exposure and Health Risks - Scientific evidence indicates that even low levels of blood lead can increase risks of cognitive developmental disorders, attention deficits, ADHD, premature birth, and hypertension [1]. - Lead poisoning is estimated to cause 5.5 million premature deaths annually and results in a global IQ score decline of 765 million points [1]. Group 2: Research Findings - A review of 39 studies published since 2000 shows that living in industrial lead pollution hotspots, occupational exposure, and environmental factors significantly affect blood lead levels [1][2]. - The review emphasizes that epidemiological data on lead exposure is still incomplete, leading to an underestimation of health impacts from certain lead sources [2]. Group 3: Recommendations for Future Research and Management - Future research should investigate pathways of industrial pollution exposure, contamination of food and spices, and the impact of lead-contaminated metal cookware on blood lead levels [2]. - Comprehensive lead risk management is necessary, including legislative restrictions on lead content, market monitoring, and community interventions [2]. - Different strategies should be employed for various lead sources, such as regulating lead paint quickly while addressing electronic waste and lead-acid battery pollution with significant investment and management [2]. Group 4: Children's Vulnerability to Lead - Children aged 3 to 6 have a lead absorption rate of 30% to 50%, making them particularly susceptible to lead poisoning from minimal exposure [3]. - The average blood lead level in children in China has decreased to approximately 20μg/L in recent years [2]. - Even with treatment, the neurotoxic effects of lead can result in lasting cognitive deficits, with studies showing that elevated blood lead levels can lower children's IQ by 7 to 20 points [3].