Blood Lead Information

Last Content Update: 2 weeks ago

What is Lead?

Lead is a naturally occurring metal in the environment that can be found in air, soil, water, and inside of our homes. Lead does not break down and go away with time. Lead is commonly found in the following items:

Lead-based paint (primarily in homes built before 1978)
Imported items (pottery, candles, spices)
Solder
Cosmetics
Plumbing materials
Ammunition
Ceramics

Blood Lead Testing is Important

Children under the age of 6 are the most vulnerable to the effects of lead. Lead in the blood can cause:

Growth problems
Behavior issues
Lower IQ
Learning problems
Hearing issues
Anemia

A blood lead test is the only way to find out if your child has elevated blood lead levels. Many pediatricians order blood tests at your child's wellness visit. Ask your child's provider about blood lead testing.

Federal regulations require that all children enrolled in Medicaid receive a blood lead test at 12 and 24 months of age, or at 24 to 72 months of age if no record of a previous test exists. The Washington Department of Health (DOH) recommends screening all children not covered by Medicaid at 12 and 24 months of age.

How Can We Help?

The Klickitat County Health Department can help with:

Education about how to reduce lead exposure.
Coordinating care with you and your provider to help reduce blood lead levels if elevated.

Contact us for further questions:

509-493-1558

Who Should Get Tested

The criteria listed below puts your family at higher risk for lead exposure:

If you live in a home built BEFORE 1978.
If you have siblings or friends with lead poisoning.
If you have lived in a country outside of the U.S.
If a parent or caregiver works with lead in some capacity.
If you use traditional remedies, such as greta, azarcon, kohl, or surma.

How to Reduce Lead in Your Environment

Here are a few ways to reduce lead exposure in your home or environment:

Reduce dust in your home.
Inspect paint for peeling, cracking, or chipping.
Wash children’s bottle, pacifiers, and toys often.
Eat a well balanced diet that includes iron, calcium, and vitamin D.
Remove shoes in the house.
Avoid using home remedies, cosmetics, and imported pottery, cookware, dishware, and ceramics for food or beverages as they could contain lead.

Check for Recalls Containing Lead

To check for recalls of items containing lead, please visit U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Choose “Lead” in the “Hazard” drop down.

Resources

Here are a few more helpful links to resources about lead and lead exposure below: