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Although lead
poisoning is often thought of as a problem of the past, more than
3,000 children were lead poisoned in the state of Ohio in 2005. Our
goal is to work with families to eliminate lead poisoning.
What is lead
poisoning?
Lead poisoning
is an elevation of the lead in the body. The Centers for Disease
Control has defined an Elevated Blood Lead Level (EBL) as a
level greater than 10 ug/dl. It can cause permanent damage to the
brain and nervous system, behavior and learning problems, slowed
growth, and hearing problems. Levels of lead below 10 ug/dL have
been linked to a decrease in IQ. At high levels, lead can cause
seizures, coma, and death.
Where is lead
found?
Most childhood
lead exposure happens in housing. Housing built before 1978 may
contain lead paint. The older the home the more likely it is to
have lead paint. Lead paint becomes hazardous when it chips,
flakes, peels, or chalks. Lead can also be found in soil near
driveways, streets and surrounding structures such as garages and
fences containing lead-based paint. A small amount of lead is found
in water.
How does the lead
get inside children's bodies?
Most exposure to
lead happens by normal hand to mouth activity and the placing of
objects containing lead dust into the mouth. A small number of
children may eat lead-based paint chips. Some lead dust may be
inhaled if children are present when lead-based paint is disturbed.
Call the Allen
County Health Department for more information about Lead Poisoning
Prevention Services – 419-228-4457.
More Information
Ohio Department of Health’s Lead Poisoning
Prevention site
CDC’s Lead Poisoning Prevention Program
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