Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Model Lead Based Paint Risk Assessor Practice Test

Which demographic groups are more likely to have elevated blood lead levels?

1. High-income families

2. Minorities

3. Suburban residents

4. Recent homeowners

The correct answer is: Minorities

Individuals from minority groups are known to be at a higher risk for elevated blood lead levels due to several socio-economic and environmental factors. Communities predominantly occupied by minorities may often face issues such as older housing stock, which is more likely to contain lead-based paint, and limited access to resources for lead hazard remediation. Additionally, there may be a higher prevalence of lead exposure from various sources, such as contaminated soil, plumbing older than 1978 (when lead was banned in residential paint), and living near industrial sites that emit lead. High-income families, suburban residents, and recent homeowners generally have reduced exposure risk to lead. High-income families are often more able to afford home improvements and renovations that mitigate lead hazards. Suburban areas are typically characterized by newer construction, which is less likely to have lead-based paint. Similarly, recent homeowners are more likely to purchase homes built after lead-paint regulations were implemented, thus lowering their risk of lead exposure.