If you’ve been following the news stories out of Flint, Michigan, you’re not alone in wondering how to keep your kids safe from lead poisoning.
Last week, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) took up the issue, asking doctors to proactively test children’s blood for high lead levels, especially if they’re between 1 and 2 years old and live in areas with many homes built before 1960.
The AAP also called on the federal government to provide more funding and other resources for lead removal and prevention programs, and to reduce the amount of lead allowed in house dust, soil, paint and water to reflect the fact that there is no safe level of exposure to lead.
That’s all great, but it’s not going to curb childhood lead exposure overnight.
In the meantime, what can you do as a parent to make sure your child doesn’t fall victim to lead poisoning?
1.Know where lead lurks: If your child spends time in any building constructed before 1978, if you live near a freeway or industrial area, or if someone in your home works with products containing lead, he or she could be in danger of lead exposure. You can test your house, yard, or water for lead using a do-it-yourself kit or by hiring a professional. Some state and local health departments do lead testing for free.
2.Get screened: Don’t wait for the doctor to suggest lead screening for your child if you’re concerned about lead exposure. If your child does spend time in an older building, such as a home or daycare, it’s a good idea to get his or her blood lead levels checked.
3.Remove hazards: Children get exposed to lead by inhaling contaminated dust particles, eating soil or paint chips containing lead, or drinking contaminated water. You can help avoid this by cleaning up dust particles and paint chips, washing away dust and soil from toys, not letting your child play in soil around older buildings, and getting your tap water tested for lead.
Check out BabyCenter’s advice page on lead poisoning for more information and prevention tips.
Have news stories about lead poisoning made you more concerned about this problem? Have you taken any steps to reduce the risk of lead exposure for your child?
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