What Parents Need To Know

Family

Lead poisoning is a serious problem for children who are 6 years and younger. Lead is a metal that has been mined for thousands of years. In the past, lead was used in many common items found in or near homes. These items include paint, gasoline, water pipes, and food cans. Lead may also be found in products used today . You may have lead around your home or apartment building without even knowing it. You can’t see, taste, or smell the lead that may be in the dust, paint, or soil around your home, or in your drinking water or food. Exposure to lead can be dangerous. The best thing to do for your child is to have him or her tested using a simple blood test. For information on blood lead testing, contact your local health care center. For sites in Philadelphia, click here .

Exposure to low levels of lead can cause:

nervous system, kidney and brain damage
learning disabilities, attention deficit disorder, and decreased intelligence
speech, language, and behavior problems
poor muscle coordination
decreased muscle and bone growth
hearing damage
headaches

Early symptoms of lead exposure include:

persistent tiredness or hyperactivity
irritability
loss of appetite
weight loss
reduced attention span
difficulty sleeping
constipation
upset stomach

Lead poisoning can be prevented and it is up to you to keep your family safe from lead hazards in your home. You can begin by taking these steps:

get your child tested
keep your home clean
make sure your child eats at least three meals a day
give your child food high in iron and calcium
avoid giving your child fried and fatty foods
teach your children to wash their hands before they eat or sleep
wash your child’s toys, bottles, and pacifiers often
encourage your child to play in grassy areas instead of on dirt
make sure your child does not have access to peeling paint and does not chew on painted surfaces
teach your child about the dangers of lead

Region 3 The Mid-Atlantic States

What Parents Need To Know

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