Lead

What is Lead?

Lead is a heavy metal. It was used in many materials and products before the risk to young children was known. Certain products such as paints used in older houses before 1978, lead solder used in plumbing, and leaded gasoline were used before their harmful health effects were recognized. Although laws now prevent lead from being used in many products, there can still be lead hazards in and around many homes. Lead can get into the air, water, food, soil, and even dust and then can be breathed or swallowed leading to serious health problems, especially for young children.

Lead is a toxin (poison) that can harm young children. Children 6 years old and under are most at risk because their bodies are still developing. A young child's exposure to lead can cause learning and behavioral problems and possibly damage their brains, kidneys, and other organs.

Lead enters the body when children breathe lead dust or lead fumes, or swallow something with lead in it. Young children often put things in their mouth creating a way for lead to enter the body. The main way most young children are exposed to harmful levels of lead is through contact with lead contaminated paint and dust. In nearly all cases, lead dust is either breathed in, or taken in as dust licked off surfaces or in swallowed paint chips that contain lead.

Less often, water is contaminated when it flows through lead pipes or brass fixtures, or food is contaminated by contact with lead-glazed ceramic dishes. Certain ethnic spices, foods and cosmetics also have lead. In certain jobs and hobbies, adults may work with leaded materials and can possibly expose their child to lead if proper cleaning is not done.

People can also be exposed to lead by eating venison and small game harvested with lead shot and lead bullets.

What is New York State doing to end childhood lead poisoning?

Great progress has been made, but lead is still a threat to many children. The Department of Health has strong programs working to prevent childhood lead poisoning statewide. These programs also help those children who have lead poisoning. New York State's three main statewide programs are:

What can health care providers do?

New York State Public Health Regulations require all health care providers to test all children for blood lead levels at age 1 and again at age 2. In addition, health care providers are also required to evaluate all children 6 months to 6 years of age for risk of lead exposure each year as part of routine care. Children found to be at risk for lead exposure should have a lead test. If a child has an elevated lead level, the health care provider must make certain the child has follow- up testing. Providers must also provide guidance on lead poisoning prevention, risk reduction and nutritional counseling to the parent or caregiver of children age 6 and younger.

Where does lead come from?

General Information

NYS Public Health Law and Regulations

Information for Health Care Providers

Information for Parents/Families

Information for Schools and Employers

Local Health Departments - Guidance Documents

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