U.S. grapples with lead pipes amid public health crisis

In October, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) mandated the removal of lead pipes that supply drinking water across the United States. This decision comes in light of the significant public health risks posed by lead-contaminated drinking water, impacting over nine million homes reliant on lead service lines. Despite the known risks dating back to the 1840s, attempts to regulate lead use faced strong opposition from the Lead Industries Association (LIA). The LIA, a now-defunct organization, actively promoted lead usage while downplaying the health hazards associated with it. Its influence was profound, leading to a delay in essential regulations. In the 1920s, the group's representatives acknowledged growing public concern over lead poisoning but continued to advocate for lead as a beneficial material without disclosing its risks. Throughout the 1940s, the LIA successfully resisted regulatory measures aimed at lead pipes and paints by labeling scientific findings as “anti-lead propaganda.” They maintained a public relations campaign that sought to undermine the credibility of medical warnings concerning lead poisoning. Even as evidence mounted regarding the dangers of lead exposure, particularly to children, the organization’s efforts delayed the regulatory response needed to protect public health. This historical context underlies the current public health challenge the U.S. faces with aging infrastructure. Lead pipes can remain in place for decades, which contributes to the legacy of lead poisoning concerns that households still endure today. The EPA's ruling may represent a significant step toward addressing this issue, but its survival during political transitions poses additional challenges that could prolong the presence of lead pipes and the health risks associated with them.