New Guidelines for Childhood Lead Screenings

In September 2017,  New Jersey's reference level for high childhood lead exposure dropped from 10 ug/dL to 5 ug/dL. This means that more children will likely be identified as having an elevated blood lead level—allowing parents, doctors, public health officials, and communities to take action earlier to reduce the child's future lead exposure. Children can be exposed to lead through lead-based paint, toys, certain parental occupations or hobbies, soil, dust, drinking water, air and food. Children put their hands in their mouths more often than adults. It's especially important for them to wash their hands before eating and after playing outside. If a child has lead in his or her blood, it can affect IQ, ability to pay attention, hearing and speech, behavior, growth and development, and academic achievement. All children should be screened at age 1 and 2, or by age 6 if they were never previously tested. Speak with your child's pediatrician to get a lead screening. If your child is uninsured or underinsured, call 609-645-7700 ext. 4500 to check for eligibility and make an appointment for a grant-funded lead screening. For more information visit: http://www.state.nj.us/health/childhoodlead/ or https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/lead/