Housing, race, income linked to soil lead exposure in two northeast cities

Astrobitica June 22, 2026 (Last updated: June 22, 2026) 1 minute read

An estimated 25%–40% of homes in the U.S. have soil contaminated with lead, which can harm children’s development. Researchers recognize that the risk is higher in areas with a history of industrial manufacturing, but identifying specific parts of a community at risk for lead soil contamination has been challenging.

An estimated 25%–40% of homes in the U.S. have soil contaminated with lead, a toxic heavy metal that can harm children’s development. Public health researchers know that the risk is higher in places with a legacy of industrial manufacturing, but drilling down into which parts of a community are likely to see lead soil contamination has posed a challenge to researchers.