According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, at least 4 million households have children living in them that are exposed to high levels of lead with approximately half a million children ages 1-5 with blood lead levels above 5 micrograms per deciliter (µg/dL). No safe blood lead level in children has been identified. When you know what to look for and take action, lead poisoning is 100% preventable.
Oakland County Health Division offers free blood lead testing for children under 6 years of age enrolled in the WIC program, regardless of insurance and/or Medicaid status.
Lead investigations involve a comprehensive team approach with the lead-burdened child. The team includes:
- Nurses
- Sanitarians
- Nutritionists
Evaluation of the child's environment by a nurse or sanitarian may identify the source of lead. Education is provided to families and health care providers to reduce the lead level in the child's blood and maintain it at a safe level.