Lead Exposure Prevention
Lead is a neurotoxin, or a substance that can harm the brain. In the past, it was common in things like gas and house paint, but the US has taken steps to change this. However, there are still many ways people can be exposed to lead, including:
- Touching old paint (before 1978), especially if it’s chipped
- Dust and chips from this paint
- Contaminated dirt and soil, especially near highways
- Water, especially if there are lead pipes
- Some ceramic plates, bowls, and glasses
- Imported candy, toys, makeup, skincare products, and jewelry
Lead can cause serious health problems, especially for young children or in pregnancy. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that there is no safe level of lead. Even low levels can affect IQ, ability to pay attention, school performance, and behavior.
The good news is that lead exposure can be prevented. The Allegheny County Health Department has a number of resources to help make homes lead-safe. Learn more on the lead prevention page.
A child who has been exposed to lead may not show obvious symptoms right away. The only way to tell if a child has been exposed is to test their blood. This is done by a simple finger stick. If the finger stick shows elevated levels of lead, a blood draw will be done to confirm it. In Allegheny County, every child has to be tested, once in the first year after birth and again around age 2. For more info, see the testing page.
To read more about the requirement, see the Inaugural Lead Report, which was presented at the Board of Health Meeting on September 12, 2018.
Information about Lead Exposure
Information for Groups