What is lead poisoning?
The U.S. Department of Health considers lead poisoning to be one of the most common and preventable environmental health problems today. Lead is something that is commonly found almost everywhere in the United States of America. Prior to 1978, lead based paint was used on most homes and businesses. Because many homes in Kansas, Illinois, and Missouri were built before 1978, the risk for lead poisoning is still very high. What we didn't know before 1978 is that when ingested, lead is a poison to our bodies.
What are the effects of lead poisoning?
Elevated levels of lead in a person's body can lead to permanent brain damage, mental retardation, behavioral problems, learning disabilities, stunted growth, and hearing problems. Extremely high levels of lead can lead to coma, seizures, and even death.
What are the signs of lead poisoning?
Many people, especially children, show no outward signs of lead poisoning. Only a blood test by a professional will tell you with certainty if a person has been poisoned. If you have reason to believe that anyone you know, especially children, have been exposed to lead based paint or soil, see a doctor immediately.
Who is most at risk for lead poisoning?
Children have the highest risk for lead poisoning. Their bodies and brains are still developing and therefore very susceptible to permanent damage from lead. Lead poisoning is most likely to occur when old lead based paint begins to chip off or disintegrate into dust that children later play in and inhale or ingest accidently. It can also be transferred to children through contaminated soil that they play in.
How do I know if my home is at risk?
The only way to know for sure if your home is at risk for lead poisoning is to call your State Department of Health and have an inspection done of your home and property.
Who do I call?
If you live in Kansas: Kansas Healthy Homes and Lead Prevention Program at 1-866-865-3233.
If you live in Missouri: Missouri Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention at 1-866-628-9891.
If you live in Illinois: Illinois Department of Public Health at 1-866-909-3572.
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