Lead poisoning is caused by swallowing or breathing in lead. Lead is a metal that can harm children and adults when it gets into their bodies. There are many sources of lead including dust, air, water, soil, and in some products used in and around our homes.
Lead can harm a young child's growth, behavior, and ability to learn. Children under six years old are most likely to get lead poisoning than any other age group. Most often, children get lead poisoning from breathing in or swallowing dust from old lead paint that gets on floors and windowsills, hands and toys. Lead can also be passed from mother to baby during pregnancy.
Although lead poisoning is preventable, lead continues to be a major cause of poisoning among children. Thousands of children are still at risk. Find out how you can protect the children in your life. Adults can also get lead poisoning, especially through contact with lead in certain jobs or hobbies or when disturbing lead paint through renovation or remodeling activities.
Why should all children have a blood lead test?
A child with lead poisoning usually does not look or feel sick. A blood lead test is the only way to know how much lead is in the body. New York State requires health care providers to test all children with a blood lead test at age 1 and again at age 2. up to age 6, your doctor or nurse should ask you about ways your child may have had contact with lead. Children who have had contact with lead should be tested immediately. Most NYS school districts also require proof of a child's lead test when they enter school. HCPHNS provides lead testing services for children who do not have insurance or on a sliding fee scale for children with insurance.
Contact the Family Health Services Coordinator at (518)648-6497 for further information.