Lead Poisoning Prevention Program
Lead poisoning is preventable. Ingestion of lead contaminated dust, paint, and soil are the primary cases of childhood lead poisoning. Lead can also be found in lead glazed or painted pottery, ammunition, fishing sinkers, stained glass solder, batteries, and imported foods, supplements and candy, clothing, toys and jewelry.
New York State requires doctors to do lead testing on all children at ages 1 and 2. Only a blood test can tell how much lead is in a child’s body. Children between the ages of 9 months and 6 years of age are at greatest risk of exposure of lead because they are apt to put fingers, hands, and toys in their mouths. New York State Department of Health states that no amount of lead exposure is safe for children.
If you’re child’s lead test comes back elevated, you can expect a call from our office. Where we will:
- provide case management and extensive educational outreach including a home visit for children with lead poisoning >5mcg/dL.
- conduct environmental testing and investigations (in collaboration with NYSDOH Geneva District Office Environmental Staff) of primary and secondary residences for children with levels >5mcg/dL.
To find out more about lead visit the links below.
New York State Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Page
EPA Lead Poisoning Prevention Page
Watch a video on lead poisoning prevention at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jEe9-MqzwMg
The Lead Poisoning Prevention Program is coordinated by:
Christine Gedney, RN, BSN
(315) 946-5749
Lead poisoning has no initial symptoms but can lead to:
- loss of developmental skills
- slowed body growth
- low iron
- reduced IQ
- hearing loss
- behavior and attention problems
Parents can protect their child from becoming lead poisoned by:
- Wash your child’s hands often before meals, nap time, after playing outside and at bedtime.
- Provide their children with a lead-healthy diet
- Wet dust and wet mop your home to keep dust tainted with lead from being spread throughout your home.
- Take appropriate precautions when starting remodeling projects More information can be found in Renovate Right Booklet
Contact the program coordinator if you are interested in more information about this topic, such as educational materials, presentations, and resources.
