by Words of Art

Created on: January 19, 2009

Lead poisoning is one of the most serious health issues facing families today. Many parents don't realize the risks associated with high levels of lead, or are simply ignorant of the causes of lead poisoning. In order to keep your child safe, it's important to have them tested if you live in an older home or a zip code that recommends lead testing, or if your child shows any type of developmental delay.

Older homes, built before the mid '70s, often contain lead-based paint. The offending layer of paint may be hidden under several layers of newer, safer paint, but the danger is still there. When paint chips off the walls, it can form a layer of dust that gets on toys or other objects your baby may put into his or her mouth. Even if it's just on the floor, your child can get it on his hands, and later transfer it into his mouth. Windowsills are often overlooked in the search for lead-based paint. Sometimes the walls of a room are newly painted but the windows are left with fewer coats of paint to cover the toxic layer.

Some zip codes have laws in place that require lead testing for all children under the age of five. Your doctor, nurse practitioner, or preschool teacher may have access to the requirements of your local municipality, or you can contact city hall. These townships sometimes have records of home builts before a certain date. This can be especially helpful if you rent your home and don't have access to title information held by the owner.

Lead poisoning can cause developmental delays, lethargy, and even death. If your child exhibits any of these signs of toxicity, it's important to have a blood test to make sure there is not a high level of lead in the blood stream. You can contact your pediatrician for an order to get it done at a laboratory, or ask if the doctor's office offers the screening on location. If the test comes back positive, it's important to take steps to remove the lead danger from your home. Replace older windows, clean up paint chips, and repair any cracking or chipping walls or trim. You can also contact a repair company that specializes in removing hazardous material from homes and businesses.

No matter how clean you keep your house, it's important to be vigilant about chipping paint. Lead-based exterior paint can be tracked in on the soles of your shoes. If you get your child tested for lead and then take all necessary steps to lower the levels of lead in your home, your child will be safe from lead poisoning.

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