About Lead Poisoning:
Lead is a highly toxic metal. Exposure to lead can result in a variety of health problems, especially in young children. When lead is absorbed into the body, it can cause damage to the brain and other vital organs, like the nerves, blood, and kidneys. Children under 6 years old are most at risk for lead poisoning, and preventing lead poisoning is especially important for young children whose bodies and brains are still growing and developing, making them more sensitive to the harmful effects of lead.
A blood lead test is the best way to measure lead exposure. The amount of lead in blood is referred to as blood lead level (BLL). Blood lead levels are measured in micrograms of lead per deciliter of blood (ug/dL). Today there are at least four million households with children living in them that are being exposed to high levels of lead. Approximately half a million children from the U.S. ages 1-5 have blood lead levels above 5 micrograms per deciliter, which is the reference level at which CDC recommends public health actions be taken.
Below is a diagram of how lead affects children's health. As you can see, lead poisoning can cause some serious health effects. It is very important to test children for lead poisoning and take preventative measures!
1) How many Ohio children tested per year in 2014?
2) Ohio Prevalence rate > 5 ug/dL > 10 ug/dL?
There were a total of 4,596 children with confirmed blood lead levels of 5 ug/dL or greater and 1,298 children with confirmed blood lead levels of 10 ug/dL or greater.
3) Percent of Ohio population tested?
3% of the total tested population had confirmed blood lead levels of 5 ug/dL or greater
0.85% of the total tested population had confirmed blood lead levels of 10 ug/dL or greater
4) Percent of Lucas County children with greater than five micrograms per deciliter?
The predicted probability of blood lead levels of 5 ug/dL or greater is 38.77% for children in the Toledo-Lucas County area.
5) Sources of lead in the environment?
- water with elevated lead levels
- toys containing lead such as lead-based paint
- soil contaminated with lead
- occupations that involve exposure to lead
- lead dust
- hobbies that include using lead-based materials
- foods containing lead
- cosmetics containing lead
- other sources
6) Ways we can prevent or things we can do to prevent childhood lead poisoning?
- address water damage quickly and completely
- keep your home clean and dust-free
- inspect and maintain all painted surfaces to prevent paint deterioration
- clean around painted areas where friction can generate dust, such as doors, windows, and drawers. Wipe these areas with a wet sponge or rage to remove paint chips or dust
- clean debris out of outlet screens or faucet aerators on a regular basis
- flush water outlets used for drinking or food preparation
- wash children's hands, bottles, pacifiers and toys often
- ensure that your family members eat well-balanced meals,. Children with healthy diets absorb less lead
- teach children to wipe and remove their shoes and wash hands after playing outdoors
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