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Lead is a heavy metal substance used in several types of piping and
as an additive in paint. Lead most typically makes its way into drinking
water through the corrosion of household plumbing systems or the
erosion of natural deposits into surface water sources. Ingestion of
lead in drinking water has both short-term and long-term effects.
Short-term exposure to lead in adults can interfere with red blood cell
chemistry and increase blood pressure. Long-term exposure to lead can result in
kidney failure and/or stroke. Lead ingestion in children, including lead in drinking water, can cause
severe physical and mental developmental delays.
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