National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week is October 20 to 26

OSWEGO COUNTY – The Oswego County Health Department observes National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week (Oct. 20-26) by raising awareness about the dangers of childhood exposure to lead in an effort to help reduce the impact of lead poisoning. The theme of this year’s campaign is “Bright futures begin lead-free.”

“There is no safe level of lead exposure,” said Oswego County Supervising Public Health Nurse Jennifer Purtell. “Even very low levels of lead in children’s blood are linked to severe adverse effects on early childhood development.

“It is toxic in young children and can affect their growth, behavior and ability to learn,” she continued. “Lead can also cause anemia, kidney damage and hearing loss. It’s essential that parents talk with their child’s health care provider about blood lead testing and assessments.”

Lead can be found inside and outside the home. Houses built before 1978 may have lead-based paint under new paint. Children may inhale and swallow lead dust created by cracking or chipping paint or chewing on surfaces covered with lead dust or paint. Lead can also be found in some children’s toys, jewelry, stained glass, pottery, spices, candy, cosmetics and health remedies from other countries.

It’s important to know that lead poisoning is preventable. Parents, caregivers and communities can work together to reduce exposure to lead and prevent the lifelong health impacts associated with lead exposure.

The health department offers these tips for protection from lead poisoning:

• Keep children away from peeling paint, broken plaster and renovation/construction sites.
• Keep the area where your children play as dust-free and clean as possible. Wash toys often and have children wash their hands frequently.
• Use cold water when cooking or preparing infant formula.
• Feed children foods that are high in iron, calcium and Vitamin C.
• Keep up on products recalled for high levels of lead in them.

At each well-child visit, your health care provider should assess children 6 months to 6 years of age for risk of lead exposure. In New York State, blood lead testing is required for children at age 1 and again at age 2.

For more information on lead poisoning prevention, home and exposure risks, or information on how to get your child tested, call the Oswego County Health Department at 315-349-3547.

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