Lead Still Poisons Thousands of Midwestern Kids

One study published last year found that Nebraska, Kansas, Iowa, and Missouri struggle with some of the highest rates of lead poisoning in the U.S. – plus, those four states have some of the most lead water pipes per capita in the country. Officials with the World Health Organization warn there is no safe level of lead in blood – even levels as low as five micrograms per deciliter can cause behavioral difficulties and learning problems in children. Lead poisoning disproportionately affects Black children and kids in low-income neighborhoods. While many cities have grants or loans available to help remediate homes, low-income families in rental housing don't always have the final say. Read more from NPR here.