The Edgecombe/Nash Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program was made possible by generous financial support from the Down East Partnership for Children.
CDC - Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program
Lead Facts
Anyone can be poisoned by lead because it is widely used in plastics, batteries, ceramics, paints, and many other items found around your home. The primary cause of childhood lead poisoning is deteriorating lead-based paint, and lead contaminated dust and soil inside or outside the home.
A child can become lead poisoned by eating the "sweet tasting" paint chips or by swallowing lead contaminated dust and soil introduced to the mouth on food, fingers, pacifiers, toys and other objects. Breathing lead dust, fumes, or vapors while sweeping, vacuuming or burning painted boards can also cause lead poisoning.
It takes only about one milligram of lead contaminated dust each day, (about the same as one granule of sugar) to poison a child. Lead accumulates in the body so that regular exposure to even small doses can delay development, lower IQ, and alter behavior. Most children show no signs or symptoms.
Children under six years of age are at greatest risk for lead poisoning due to hand-to-mouth activities, increased absorption in their digestive system, and because their bodies are still developing.
All children from 9 months to 6 years should have their blood tested for lead by their doctor, clinic or local health department.
The good news is that lead poisoning is preventable!