Lead Poisoning in Children
Though lead in exterior and interior house paints was banned in 1978, more than 24 million homes in the United States are at risk of lead paint hazards, which are by far the most common source of lead poisoning for children. Much progress has been made in reducing exposure to lead, but nearly one million American children have lead levels in their blood high enough to risk impairing their mental abilities as well as their physical growth and stature.
Older oil-based paints were particularly heavily leaded and may flake or peel off and be swallowed by children. Paints that are in good condition or that have been painted over with lead-free paints are not a problem, unless painted surfaces rub together and create dust (as on window frames). Remodeling that involves removing leaded paint, particularly by chipping or sanding the paint, can be extremely hazardous and should be done by experts.
Because any kind of dust, especially paint dust, may contain lead, it’s important to keep a child’s environment as dust-free as possible. Clean windowsills and floors frequently with detergent and water. Make sure children wash their hands before eating. Keep kids from chewing on painted objects. If you’re not sure the paint on an old toy is lead-free, dispose of it.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends screening all children for blood lead levels. If a child is at high risk (for example, lives in old housing), the first screening should be done at the age of six months. The interval for rescreening will depend on the results of the first test. Children at low risk should be screened at 12 months and retested at age two. Children with low blood levels need not be tested again.
If your child’s test shows lead levels of 10 micrograms per deciliter or higher, you will need help from your physician and the health department to track down the lead sources and correct the problem.
For more information on handling lead hazards, including advice on removing old paint, you can call the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) at 202.708.0685 or go to their Web site, which has an area devoted to lead hazards. Another source is the National Lead Information Clearinghouse hotline (800.424.LEAD).
