Lead can impact the health of your growing child. It’s important to schedule a lead screening with your child’s doctor. This is especially true for those at higher risk of exposure. Let’s take a look at some facts.
Risks
Lead exposure is especially harmful to children ages 6 months to 3 years old. Lead is found in lead-based paints used in many homes until the late 1970s. It can also flow through old lead pipes and faucets. And it’s even found in some children’s toys. Exposure to lead at an early age can have long-term effects on brain development. It can also impact the central nervous system and liver. Lead exposure can even affect mood, attention span and behavior.
Your child may be at risk if they meet any of these conditions:
- Live or have lived in a home built before 1978
- Have eaten food stored in containers made with lead
- Exposure to toys, jewelry, stained glass, ink, paint and plaster
- Have a family member who is or was treated for lead exposure
Free testing
Lead testing is free for Priority Health Medicaid members. Priority Health offers free lead testing services to Medicaid members up to 21 years old. And for kids 2 years old and younger, parents can receive a $10 gift card for having their child screened. Call or visit your local health department, or talk to your primary care provider, to learn more.
You should get your child tested for lead poisoning between the ages of 6 and 12 months, and again between the ages of 24 and 36 months. Keep in mind, some children do not show signs of sickness. That’s another reason to get your child’s blood tested for lead. Symptoms may include headaches, vomiting, weakness, loss of appetite and weight loss.
The following video from the CDC breaks down the effects of lead poisoning on your child. It also explains the screening process in greater detail.
Once you’ve scheduled a lead screening for your child, it’s important to ensure your home is safe by looking into lead inspections and removal. Many of these inspections are available at little to no cost for you. Use this website from the State of Michigan to find an inspection service near you. Keeping a healthy, lead-free home is important for your little one’s healthy growth and development.
For more information on how to protect your child from lead exposure, visit the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services website or call 866.691.5323.
