Keep your child healthy: Be on the alert for high blood lead levels in your child.
Lead can be found in paint and in dust in homes built before 1978. Children may ingest lead through food or by putting toys that picked up lead from chipping paint into their mouth.
Even small amounts of lead in a child’s blood can cause problems with learning. They also can have a lower IQ. They often have reading and learning problems. Sometimes they are hyperactive. This is why it is important to know your child’s blood lead level.
All children should be tested for lead at 12 and 24 months of age. Children 36-72 months of age who have never been tested should be tested as well. A small amount of blood from your child’s finger is tested. If the child’s blood lead level is high, the child will be check out a second time to monitor the level.
The Arizona Department of Health Services can look at your home and find lead problem areas. After representatives from the ADHS find out where the lead is in your home, they can help you reduce the risk in your home.
Help your child stay healthy by keeping an eye on their blood lead levels.
For more information, visit these websites:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
