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Lead (Blood)

Toxicology and Exposure
88.00

The Lead blood test measures the level of lead circulating in the bloodstream. It helps identify recent or ongoing lead exposure and toxicity risk.

Turnaround time

5 days

Biomarkers count

1

Same-Day Appointments
UKAS Accredited Labs

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Details about Lead (Blood)

What is the Lead (Blood) test?

 

The Lead (Blood) test measures the concentration of lead present in whole blood. Lead is a toxic heavy metal with no safe physiological role in the human body.

Blood lead levels reflect recent and ongoing exposure, as lead circulates in the blood before being deposited in tissues such as bone, liver and kidneys. Even low-level exposure can be harmful, particularly with chronic exposure.

This test is used in environmental medicine, occupational health, paediatrics and toxicology to assess lead exposure and guide intervention.

 

Why do I need a Lead (Blood) test?

 

Lead exposure can occur without obvious symptoms and may cause long-term health effects if not detected early.

 

You may need a Lead blood test if you:

  • Live or work in older buildings (pre-1970 paint or plumbing)
  • Work in construction, manufacturing or metal industries
  • Have occupational exposure risk
  • Use traditional remedies or imported cosmetics
  • Have unexplained neurological or gastrointestinal symptoms
  • Are pregnant or planning pregnancy
  • Are testing a child for environmental exposure

 

Symptoms of lead exposure may include:

  • Fatigue
  • Headaches
  • Abdominal pain
  • Constipation
  • Memory or concentration problems
  • Irritability
  • Anaemia
  • Developmental delay in children

 

Benefits of the Lead (Blood) test

 

  • Detects lead exposure early
    Identifies toxic exposure before complications arise.
  • Measures recent exposure accurately
    Blood levels reflect current lead burden.
  • Supports occupational health screening
    Essential for workplace risk assessment.
  • Protects neurological health
    Lead is toxic to the brain and nervous system.
  • Important in pregnancy and childhood
    Prevents developmental harm.
  • Guides environmental intervention
    Supports removal of exposure sources.
  • Clinically recognised toxicology test
    Used worldwide in public health.
  • Simple blood test
    Requires only one sample.

 

Step by step – how the test works

 

You can access Lead (Blood) testing UK-wide through two options:

  1. Clinic appointment
    Attend your nearest UK clinic where a healthcare professional will take your blood sample.
  2. At-home or hotel visit (£60 extra)
    A qualified phlebotomist comes to your home or hotel, so you don’t need to travel.

Your sample is analysed in an accredited UK laboratory using validated heavy-metal testing methods.

 

Your results explained

 

Low blood lead level

No significant exposure detected.

Typical UK interpretation:

  • < 0.48 µmol/L (≈ <10 µg/dL)

 

Moderately elevated blood lead level

Indicates exposure requiring investigation and monitoring.

Typical UK interpretation:

  • 0.48–1.2 µmol/L

 

High blood lead level

Suggests significant lead exposure and potential toxicity.

Typical UK interpretation:

  • > 1.2 µmol/L

There is no completely safe level of lead; any elevation should be reviewed clinically.

How It Works

Simple steps to get your results

1

Book Online

Choose your test online and book in seconds. Select your preferred clinic location or home visit option.

2

Visit or Test at Home

Attend one of our UK or London clinics, arrange a home nurse visit, or use a finger-prick kit where available.

3

Get Your Results

Your sample is analysed by accredited UK laboratories, with secure results delivered directly to you.

Take control of your health with London Blood Tests

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How to Prepare for Your Test

Follow these guidelines for accurate results

Sample Timing

Where possible, attend your blood test between 7am and 12pm. Please wait until any short-term illness or infection has fully resolved before testing. Avoid intense exercise for 24–48 hours beforehand, as this can affect certain markers.

Fasting & Hydration

Fasting is not always required, but some tests may recommend it. If fasting is advised, avoid food for 8–12 hours before your appointment and drink water only. Stay well hydrated, as this helps with sample collection and accuracy.

Medications & Supplements

Continue prescribed medications unless advised otherwise by your clinician. Avoid vitamin, mineral, or biotin supplements for at least 24–48 hours before your test, as these can interfere with results. If you are unsure about any medication or supplement, please let us know before your appointment.

Hormones & Menstrual Cycle

For hormone-related tests, timing within your menstrual cycle may be important. If relevant, follow any specific guidance provided on your test page.

If you have any questions or special circumstances, our team is happy to advise before your appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

No. Any detectable lead may carry health risk.

It reflects recent exposure; bone stores reflect long-term burden.

No fasting is required.

Yes. It is commonly used in paediatric screening.

Yes. Lead interferes with haemoglobin production.

Yes. Management depends on severity and source removal.

In severe cases, yes, under specialist care.

Yes. Home or hotel phlebotomy is available UK-wide for £60 extra.

Yes. Especially if levels are elevated.

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