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Metals Testing Services

Category Press Release
Publish Date 9/25/2026
Author Paul Cochrane
Title NIH Research Links Early-Life Metal Exposure to Lasting Brain and Behavioral Effects
Introduction Laboratory testing services, sampling supplies, and test kits from EMSL Analytical help identify toxic metal hazards in homes, schools, workplaces, and products.

Cinnaminson, New Jersey, September 25, 2026


New research highlighted by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) underscores the importance of identifying and reducing exposure to toxic metals during critical stages of childhood development.

In a Research Matters article published in May, NIH featured findings from a study led by researchers at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai that examined how exposure to metals during pregnancy and early infancy may affect brain development and behavior later in childhood. Researchers analyzed baby teeth from 489 children, using tooth layers to create a timeline of metal exposure from the prenatal period through the first months of life. The study found that exposure to metal mixtures during key developmental windows was associated with an increased risk of anxiety, depression, hyperactivity, attention difficulties, and changes in brain connectivity observed years later. The findings reinforce the importance of preventing excessive metal exposures early in life.

According to EMSL Analytical, one of North America’s leading environmental testing laboratories, toxic metals can be introduced through contaminated dust, soil, water, consumer products, building materials, food, and occupational environments. Identifying these hazards is an important step in protecting children, families, workers, and communities.

EMSL offers environmental, material, food, and industrial hygiene laboratory testing services for a wide range of metals, including lead, arsenic, cadmium, and mercury. The company also provides sampling supplies and easy-to-use test kits that help homeowners, schools, childcare facilities, employers, consultants, and public health professionals identify potential sources of exposure. From drinking water and soil testing to dust, paint, food, and workplace exposure assessments, EMSL’s scientific experts provide data needed to support informed decisions and reduce health risks.

“Studies such as this one highlight why early detection and prevention are so important,” said Joe Frasca, Senior Vice President of Marketing at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “By providing reliable laboratory analysis, sampling products, and convenient test kits, EMSL helps clients identify toxic metal hazards and take appropriate actions to create healthier indoor and outdoor environments.”

For more information about toxic metal testing services and sampling supplies, visit www.EMSL.com, call (800) 220-3675, or email [email protected]. Lead test kits are available at www.EMSLTestKits.com.

 
 
About EMSL Analytical, Inc.
 
EMSL Analytical is one of the leading testing laboratories with locations throughout the United States and Canada. EMSL is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider specializing in fast laboratory results for mold, bacteria, Legionella, USP <797>, pathogens, asbestos, lead, soot, char & ash from fires, VOCs, odors, radon, formaldehyde, indoor air quality, microbiology, environmental, industrial hygiene, radiological, food, beverage & consumer products and material testing services for the identification of unknown substances. EMSL services both professionals and the general public. EMSL maintains an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies including, but not limited to A2LA, AIHA LAP, LLC. (AIHA EMLAP, AIHA IHLAP, AIHA ELLAP), NVLAP, CDC ELITE, CPSC, CA ELAP, NY ELAP, TX DOH, NJDEP and multiple other state accrediting agencies. Please visit our website at www.EMSL.com for a complete listing of accreditations. In addition, EMSL carries a wide range of Sampling Equipment and Investigative Products for environmental professionals.



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