Lead poisoning (铅中毒) is a serious medical condition caused by the accumulation of lead in the body, often through ingestion or inhalation of lead-contaminated substances like old paint, polluted water, or certain traditional cosmetics. The word breaks down literally as 铅 (lead), 中 (to be affected or afflicted), and 毒 (poison or toxicity); together, they mean 'being poisoned by lead.' It is a formal, clinical term used primarily in healthcare, public health advisories, and scientific reporting.

This condition is especially dangerous for children, whose developing nervous systems are highly vulnerable to even low levels of lead exposure. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, fatigue, developmental delays, and cognitive impairment. Prevention focuses on eliminating exposure sources—such as testing home water, avoiding imported pottery with lead glaze, and ensuring safe renovation practices in older buildings. Public health campaigns in China frequently address 铅中毒 in relation to environmental safety and childhood health screening.