Q. What does lead exposure mean?
A. Most children have some amount of lead in their blood, and are exposed to lead through the environment. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, even low levels of lead are dangerous, especially for young children.
Q. What are the most common sources for lead poisoning?
A. According to the National Institute of Health, one of the most common sources for lead poisoning is lead based paint in older homes. When it chips and peels off, it is even more dangerous. Other common sources include contaminated soil and mud, drinking water, some glazed pottery and metal jewelry. Lead based paint on toys is also a source of danger, especially for young children who tend to chew on toys.
Q. What are the "safe" levels of lead?
A. There is no defined level of lead which is said to be safe. Even low levels of lead may lead to lower IQ scores.
Q. What are the symptoms of lead poisoning?
A. According to the AACP, "a child with a blood lead level at 10 – 20 micrograms/dL may not exhibit any symptoms at all, yet the lead may change brain development to cause lower IQ scores or behavioral problems later in life. At higher blood lead levels, generally above 40 micrograms/dL, symptoms may include abdominal pain, constipation, loss of appetite, agitation, lethargy, and even seizures."
Q. How do you test your child for lead exposure?
A. It's difficult to identify exposure to lead. Sometimes very low levels of lead do not cause visible symptoms, though it may work in the background and cause slower brain development or behavioural problems. If you are concerned that your child has been exposed to lead, you can have a simple blood test done after consulting with your physician.
Q. What do you do if your child's toy is lead painted?
A. First of all, take away the toy from your child. Do not allow your child to put the lead painted toys in his/her mouth. Lead paint is dangerous especially if swallowed. If the paint is peeling or chipping off, it's time to be concerned because some of it may have found it's way into your child's stomach. Get your child tested for lead exposure if you are worried this may have happened.