Protecting Children From Lead with Criterion Inspections (sponsored)

Lead is a toxic metal. Even small amounts can harm children when they breathe it in or swallow it. Over time, paint can flake and chip or produce a fine dust that contains Lead. Lead paint was not banned in the United States until 1978. How do I know if my child has lead poisoning? There are often no signs or symptoms. Children can have lead poisoning and not look or act sick.

When should my child be tested for lead?

• Lead poisoning levels peak in children between the ages of 12 and 36 months of age.

• Medicaid eligible children are required to be tested at 12 and 24 months of age and between 36 and 72 months if not previously tested.

• Other children should be tested at that same frequency if they have certain risk factors.

• Lead testing is not part of a routine pediatric check-up. Parents should ask their provider to test their child’s blood for lead.

What are the health effects of lead poisoning?

• In children, even low levels of lead exposure can result in damage to the brain and nervous system, and cause behavior and learning problems.

• Very high levels of lead in children can cause seizures, coma, and even death.

• Even a child that may seem healthy can have a high level of lead in their body.