Lead Poisoning Prevention and Resources

Lead is a neurotoxin, a toxic substance that can significantly affect the normal activity of the nervous system and most other systems of the body. Although lead levels in children can be reduced with appropriate interventions, even low levels of lead poisoning can cause severe, permanent brain damage. 

Help Prevent Lead Poisoning

According to the CDC, lead poisoning is an entirely preventable health problem. The greatest risk is to young children because they are in a phase of intense growth and brain development and they often place their hands and other objects in their mouth. Additionally, once a child has been confirmed as a victim of lead poisoning, the most important step is to identify the source of exposure and to educate the family in order to protect the child from further exposure.

The most important steps in preventing lead poisoning are:

• Stop contact between children and potential sources of lead, including removing all lead paint and hazards from the home.
• Keep children's nails clipped short and practice regular handwashing, especially before snacks, meals and bedtime.
• Regularly wet mop and dust to minimize the amount of lead dust in the air. Special attention should be given to floors and to windowsills.
• Wash pacifiers and children's toys frequently, as these are objects which children like to place in their mouths and which may easily come into contact with lead dust and soil.

Lead Poisoning Resources

Alliance for Healthy Homes
The Alliance for Healthy Homes works to protect children from lead and other home environmental health hazards through policy solutions and community initiatives.

CDC Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program
The CDC offers lead poisoning resources, prevention tips and information on policy and legislation involving childhood lead poisoning. The program is working with state and local governments to eliminate high lead levels in children by 2010.

Housing and Urban Development - Office of Healthy Homes and Lead Hazard Control
The OHHLHC is a federal agency committed to removing the danger of lead paint in homes in privately owned and low-income housing.