Lead in deteriorated paint, contaminated dust and soil presents a serious risk to people who are exposed to these hazards. Children and adults who spend any amount of time in older housing, schools or workplaces where lead hazards are present may be exposed to a dangerous amount of lead.

Lead poisoning causes serious, permanent health effects, especially among children, pregnant women and the elderly. Construction workers, property maintenance personnel and anyone working around buildings built before 1978 may also be at risk for lead exposure.

Health effects of lead poisoning include:

• Reduced IQ
• Learning and Reading Disabilities
• Juvenile Delinquency and Crime
• Nervous System Disorders
• Reduced Height and Weight
• Kidney and Gastrointestinal System Disease
• Seizures, Coma and Death

While no exposure to lead is good, everyone has, at one time or another, been exposed. That means that additional precautions, particularly in older housing, must be taken to ensure that no more exposure will occur. One gram of lead dust exposure over a few months is enough to cause life-long problems for a child.

Lead poisoning continues to be a significant health issue in our community. The County prevalence rate (the proportion of all children tested for lead who have ever had a confirmed “elevated blood level”) is 10.9%, as compared to the State rate of 5.8% and the national rate of 4.4%. State Health Department statistics indicate that five Western New York zip codes rank in the top ten statewide for lead poisoning, including ranks one, three and four.

Approximately two thirds of prison inmates in New York show evidence of past exposure to lead, perhaps as children. Lead poisoning is well known to affect IQ, which leads to social problems and decreased earning potential. Studies show that loss of each IQ results in an average loss of $1,000.00 in annual earning potential. Over a lifetime that adds up. An investment in lead hazard control benefits everyone, but especially you and your family.

Blood Lead Levels are measured in “micrograms” of lead per “deciliter” of blood or “mcg/dL.”

Confirmed Blood Lead Level	Suggested Actions
0-9 mcg/dL	No further action – rescreen as recommended.
10-14 mcg/dL	Get follow up testing within 3 months. Get lead education and information on available services.
15-19 mcg/dL	Get follow up testing within 2 months. Get lead education and information on available services.
20-44 mcg/dL	Get complete medical evaluation and care. Find a get rid of lead hazards in the child’s home, school and play areas.
45-69 mcg/dL	Within 48 hours, begin: Medical evaluation and care. Inspection for and removal of lead hazards.
70 mcg/dL or above	Medical emergency. Get immediate medical treatment and inspection of environment.

Here you will find pertinent health care information and resources concerning health issues for adults and children with an emphasis on childhood lead poisoning information for Health Care Providers and Health Agency professionals.

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