Final answer:
Children aged 6 months to 6 years are at the highest risk for lead poisoning due to their physiological development and behaviors, such as hand-to-mouth activities that increase lead intake.
Step-by-step explanation:
Children between the ages of 6 months and 6 years have the greatest risk of lead poisoning. At this developmental stage, children are more likely to engage in hand-to-mouth activities, which can introduce lead-contaminated objects or dust into their bodies. Additionally, their growing bodies absorb more lead than adults and are extremely sensitive to its harmful effects, which include developmental delays, behavioral issues, and lowered IQ. While adults can be affected, especially those in specific occupations with greater lead exposure, children are at a higher risk due to their behaviors and physiology. It is important for parents and caretakers to be vigilant about potential lead sources in the home and to ensure that children in the high-risk age category are screened for lead levels in their blood to prevent the toxic impact of lead exposure.