Child Health Benefits from Lead Abatement

A new study by Elise Gould of the Economic Policy Institute describes the economic and child wellbeing benefits of lead abatement.  While public health initiatives and other laws have reduced lead exposure among children, lead poisoning poses a threat to some at-risk groups. Even low levels can lead to significant neurological damage, resulting in cognitive and behavioral problems, later health problems and even criminal activity.

This paper finds that the benefits of abatement far outweigh the costs; every dollar spent on controlling lead hazards returns between $17 and $221 in health benefits, increased IQ, higher lifetime earnings, tax revenue, less spending on special education, and reduced criminal activity.