Mexico. A study carried out by the Lead Exposure Reduction Project (LEEP) showed that more than a third of household paint brands sold in Mexico City have lead levels that exceed the limits set by the World Health Organization (WHO).
The study, carried out in mid-2024, analyzed 51 specimens from 17 brands that represent about 80% of the local market. Six of these labels (35%) detected products with lead concentrations that significantly exceed the suggested maximum dose of 90 parts per million. In some cases, levels reached up to 10,000 ppm, or more than 100 times the allow.
Regarding the risk, Jovani Pérez, representative of LEEP, pointed out that "exposure to lead is a problem that can be prevented with adequate regulations, constant monitoring and greater public awareness."
Contact with this heavy metal is related to irreversible damage to children's brain development, impacting their cognitive ability, learning process and emotional behavior. In adults, it can cause hypertension, heart disorders, and kidney problems. In addition, the initial symptoms are usually less noticeable, making it difficult to detect them early.
LEEP also found that none of the water-based paints contained high levels of lead, reflecting a favorable trend. However, many solvent-based paints continue to use lead compounds to improve color and durability.
According to UNICEF, about 13.8 million children in Mexico could have suffered from lead poisoning, caused not only by paints, but also by other polluting materials.
Today, LEEP is working with the Mexican government to renew regulations related to lead content in paints and strengthen oversight of their sale. In addition, it collaborates with the National Association of Producers of Paints and Inks (ANAFAPYT) with the goal of promoting the change towards lead-free options.
