At what blood lead level is a person considered poisoned?

A blood lead level of 5.0 micrograms per deciliter (ug/dL) is recognized as the threshold for elevated lead exposure, indicating that a person has been exposed to lead levels significant enough to warrant concern for potential poisoning. This level is consistent with guidelines set forth by health organizations such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

At this level, although symptoms may not always be evident, it signals the need for further evaluation, intervention, and monitoring to prevent potential health effects, particularly in vulnerable populations such as children and pregnant women. Recognizing this threshold is crucial for timely identification and remediation of lead exposure to avoid long-term health complications associated with lead poisoning, such as developmental delays and cognitive impairments.