Lead has been used in the production of batteries, ammunition, metal products such as solder and pipes, devices to shield X-rays, and more. Because of health concerns, lead use has decreased dramatically in paints and ceramics, caulking, and pipe solder.
If you are concerned about health problems associated with exposure to lead during your military service, talk to your health care provider or local VA Environmental Health Coordinator.
How Veterans may have been exposed to lead
Lead exposure can result from contact with lead in the air, household dust, soil, water, and commercial products. Veterans who came into contact with lead-based paints that were deteriorating or who drank water from old lead pipes may be at risk for elevated lead levels.
Health problems associated with exposure to lead
When lead is inhaled or swallowed, it can affect almost every organ and system in the body. It can cause anemia and small increases in blood pressure, particularly in middle-aged and older people. Long-term exposure can cause weakness in fingers, wrists, or ankles and nervous system damage.
High levels of exposure can severely damage the brain and kidneys, cause miscarriage and damage the organs responsible for sperm production.
Learn more about lead and its health effects from the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry.
Health concerns?
If you are concerned about health problems associated with exposure to lead during your military service, talk to your health care provider or local VA Environmental Health Coordinator.
Veterans not enrolled in the VA health care system, find out if you qualify for VA health care.
VA benefits
Veterans may be eligible for VA disability compensation benefits and health care benefits for health problems associated with exposure to lead during military service.
Veterans' dependents and survivors also may be eligible for benefits. Read Federal Benefits for Veterans, Dependents and Survivors to learn more.
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