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Adults are lead-poisoned by breathing lead fumes and lead dust. They can also get lead dust on their hands, face and clothes, and swallow it if they eat, smoke, or apply cosmetics without washing their hands and face.
Most Iowa adults with elevated blood lead levels are exposed by working with lead. Lead is found in many types of work, including metals refining, battery manufacturing, construction and demolition, commercial or residential renovation, repair and painting, scrap metal and electronics recycling, radiator repair, road and bridge work, and manufacturing equipment containing metals.
Some adults have been lead-poisoned doing renovation, painting or repair work because they did not use lead-safe work practices.
Some adults are lead-poisoned by hobbies like target shooting, casting or reloading ammunition, stripping furniture, and art projects. Adults may also be exposed to lead if they use supplements or herbal products that are not regulated by the FDA.