What is a key sign of lead poisoning in children?

A key sign of lead poisoning in children is developmental delay. Lead exposure can have significant negative effects on a child's neurological development. It disrupts normal brain function and can lead to a variety of cognitive and behavioral issues. Children exposed to lead may exhibit delays in speech and language development, difficulties with attention and impulse control, and learning disabilities. These developmental issues often manifest as poorer performance in school, challenges in social interactions, and a general decrease in cognitive abilities.

Lead poisoning may produce a range of other symptoms, but developmental delays are particularly noteworthy because they can have long-lasting impacts on a child's overall development and quality of life. Recognizing these signs early can facilitate timely intervention and support for affected children, potentially mitigating some of the adverse effects associated with lead exposure.

The other options, while they may present in various health contexts, do not specifically align with the direct effects of lead poisoning in the same way. Weight gain is typically not associated with lead poisoning; in fact, other symptoms might lead to weight loss or failure to thrive. Frequent infections might suggest an underlying health issue or immunodeficiency rather than lead toxicity alone. A skin rash can occur due to various dermatological conditions but is not a recognized primary indicator of lead poisoning.