What You Should Know About Childhood Lead Exposure

Studies have shown an increased risk for these problems if your child has or had a blood lead level at or above:

10ug/dL - learning disabilities, developmental problems, lower IQ, hypertension, behavior problems, dental caries

20ug/dL - nerve problems, slower reflexes

40ug/dL - anemia

60ug/dL - kidney damage, stomach aches

80ug/dL - brain swelling, coma, convulsions

100ug/dL or greater - death is possible

Damage from lead exposure may be permanent

Who Is At Risk in Douglas County?

All children have some risk of lead exposure from many different sources.

Children with the most risk of exposure are those under 7 years of age who:

• Live or visit east of 72nd Street
• Live or visit a home built before 1978 that needs repair, is being repaired or renovated, or has the original windows and porch.
• Put many things in their mouths including toys, fingers, and soil

Douglas County Health Department (DCHD) recommends

ALL children have a blood lead test at least once a year through age 3. Children at high risk for lead exposure should continue to be tested yearly through age 6.

Ask your doctor or call DCHD at 444-7825 to schedule a test or receive more information.