What You Should Know About Childhood Lead Exposure

WHY ARE WE CONCERNED?

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 72^nd 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.