MONTANA
LEAD POISONING PREVENTION PROGRAM
Lead Poisoning in the United States
Lead is a potent and pervasive toxic metal, whose deleterious health affects have been documented for centuries. Extensive global reliance on the use of lead has caused widespread environmental lead contamination and human exposures. Far from being a problem of the past, childhood lead poisoning remains one of the most serious threats to the health and well being of developing children. Some of the more severe effects from elevated levels of lead in a child’s blood include damage to the central nervous system resulting in learning disabilities and behavioral problems which have been associated with increased drop out rates, delinquency and other lasting socioeconomic problems. In the most severe cases lead poisoning may result in seizures, coma and even death.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recognized lead poisoning as a condition that is 100% preventable. Yet despite efforts by the CDC and state health organizations, it is estimated that nearly half a million children in the United States possess blood levels high enough to cause damaging effects. The United States Department of Health and Human Services and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have established the goal of eliminating elevated blood lead levels in children by the year 2010.
Important Facts about Lead Poisoning
• Because their bodies are still developing, young children and babies are most vulnerable to lead poisoning.
• A pre-born infant has the same blood lead level as his/her mother.
• Even very small amounts of lead can cause mental and behavioral problems in children.
• Most children who have lead poisoning appear to be healthy.
Who is at Risk?
- Children six years old and younger are most at risk of lead poisoning, because:
- Children's rapidly developing bodies absorb lead more readily than adult bodies
- Young children explore their environment by placing objects in their mouths. These objects can have lead dust on them.
- Young children play inside on floors where lead dust is likely to collect, and outside in soil that can be lead-contaminated.
- Children and families living in housing built prior to 1978.
- Children or families who have lived abroad or families who have imported or received products from abroad.
Effects of Childhood Lead Poisoning
Children are most sensitive to the damaging effects of lead, which is particularly harmful to cognitive and behavioral development. Children poisoned by lead may suffer irreversible cognitive and behavioral problems as a result of their early prolonged exposure, such as:
- Mental retardation
- Learning disabilities
- Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD)
- Hearing problems
- Aggressive or violent behavior
Recommended Blood Lead Screening Guidelines for Children
The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends:
- Screen all children at least once prior to 2 years of age
- Screen all children 36 to 72 months of age who have not been previously screened
Where Can I Have My Child’s Blood Tested for Lead?
(COMING SOON)
