What is being tested?The test measures the lead concentration in blood. Lead is a metal that is known to be poisonous. In the past, lead was used in paints, petrol, and other household products, which can still be found, for example, in older housing. Some work activities and hobbies can still expose you to lead. While preventable,
lead poisoning remains a public health problem in Australia that can cause irreversible damage to the health of children as well as adults.
If untreated, excess lead in the body can do great damage, even if a person has no obvious symptoms or problems. Impaired learning and development among children is a major consequence of lead poisoning. The function of the kidneys may also be greatly reduced, and the ability of nerves to conduct messages quickly through the body is a major problem with lead toxicity. Lead can also harm the reproductive organs and cause miscarriages and birth defects.
