Know the Dangers of Lead Exposure and How to Avoid It
Date: 08/10/20
Did you know that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that almost 14,000 Hoosier children may have lead poisoning? Many more are exposed at lower levels as well.
Lead is a metal. It was once used in things like paint, china, and water pipes. Too much lead can make you, your children, and even your pets sick. Breathing, touching, or eating paint or dust containing lead is the most likely way of being exposed. The main source for lead poisoning is lead paint in older homes. Many Hoosier homes were built before 1950. Raising and lowering windows turns lead paint into dust. That dust then goes everywhere. It can settle on objects that go in children’s mouths. Children may also chew on lead paint because it can taste sweet.
Lead exposure causes injury to many parts of our bodies. This includes the brain and red blood cells. Also, problems occur with the kidney and heart. This can result in permanent damage.
Lead exposure can also cause symptoms that you might not even be aware of such as:
- Stomach pain
- Irritability
- Headaches
- Poor Appetite
- Sleep Problems
The best way to detect lead poisoning is to get a blood level test at ages 1 and 2. Children should be tested up to age 7 if they were never screened or are at high risk. If your child has not had a blood level test please contact your doctor to schedule an appointment. Our Care Management team can help you schedule an appointment. They can also help you with setting up a ride to the appointment.
You can also do things at home to reduce lead’s dangers. Wash your child’s hands before they eat and go to sleep. Keep house surfaces and toys clean. If you notice paint chips, clean them up right away. Feed your children healthy meals. This includes meals high in iron, calcium and vitamin C.
Find out more in our Lead Education Brochure (PDF). Or, you can call MHS Care Management at 1-877-6474848 ext. 20278.