Do you know how much lead you have in your body? If not, it may be important to find out. Research shows that elevated lead levels in the body are linked to high blood pressure. Furthermore, those people with the highest levels of lead in their blood face a greater risk of stroke, heart disease and decreased mental functioning. While everyone is at some risk for lead exposure, African-American men over the age of 60 have the highest risk of increased blood lead levels.

The North Carolina Center for Health and Wellness at UNC Asheville is sponsoring a study to investigate the blood lead levels in African-American men more than 60 years old. If you are among that group and are interested in learning your lead level and how to reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke, call 828/250-2369 for more information about joining this study.