Prenatal lead exposure linked to lower cognition six decades later

A new study published on February 18, 2026, in Neurology^® suggests a connection between lead exposure before birth and cognitive function in women six decades later. Researchers found an association between lead levels and performance on tests of thinking and memory skills, though the study does not prove lead exposure causes lower scores.

Early Exposure, Later Impact

The findings highlight a potential long-term health consequence of lead exposure, which peaked in the United States during the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s. According to study author Ruby C. Hickman, PhD, individuals born during those years are now reaching midlife and older adulthood, a period when these early exposures could manifest as cognitive changes.

An Unusual Data Source

The research team utilized an innovative approach to assess lead exposure. They analysed baby teeth donated by parents in the St. Louis, Missouri, area between 1958 and 1972, originally collected for a study on radiation exposure. Researchers then located these individuals approximately 60 years later and asked them to complete cognitive assessments on their personal computers or devices.

Did You Know? Baby teeth can reveal a person’s lead exposure levels before birth and in early childhood, as lead accumulates in teeth as they develop.

A total of 715 people, with an average age of 62, participated in the study. The median lead concentration found in the baby teeth was 1.34 parts per million.

Gender-Specific Findings

The study revealed a notable difference based on gender. For female participants, each one part per million increase in lead concentration during the second trimester of pregnancy was associated with a decrease in test scores equivalent to three years of aging. These results accounted for factors like parental education and family financial status.

Expert Insight: This research underscores the critical importance of minimizing lead exposure during vulnerable developmental periods, even decades before potential health effects become apparent. The findings suggest that early environmental factors can have lasting consequences for cognitive health.

Dr. Hickman noted that while lead exposure has decreased in recent decades, incidents like the Flint water crisis and lead contamination in cinnamon applesauce demonstrate that exposure remains a concern in the United States and globally.

Looking Ahead

further research will explore whether similar cognitive effects are observed in men exposed to lead prenatally. Researchers may also investigate whether interventions aimed at reducing lead exposure in early life could mitigate these long-term cognitive impacts. Additional studies could also focus on diverse populations, as the current study primarily included participants who were white, highly educated, and of higher socioeconomic status as children.

Frequently Asked Questions

What did the study measure?

The study measured lead levels in baby teeth donated between 1958 and 1972 and then assessed the cognitive function of the original children approximately 60 years later.

Is lead exposure still a problem today?

According to study author Ruby C. Hickman, PhD, while lead exposure has declined, events like the Flint water crisis and lead contamination in applesauce indicate it remains an ongoing issue in the United States and worldwide.

What were the key findings for women in the study?

For female participants, each one part per million higher concentration of lead during the second trimester was associated with test scores that were lower by 0.16 of a standard deviation, equivalent to three years of aging.

What role do you think public health initiatives play in preventing environmental exposures that could impact long-term health?