Lead Poisoning Awareness
Lead Poisoning
- A normal lead level is 0.
- Last year 1 in 7 children tested in Peoria had a high lead level.
- The amount of lead needed to poison our system is 1/100 of a sugar packet.
- Lead poisoning is a silent disease.
- Even children who appear healthy can have dangerous levels of lead in their bodies.
- Most homes built before 1978 contain lead based paint.
- The most common source of lead poisoning today is dust from lead based paint that has deteriorated or been disturbed while remodeling.
- Lead is a heavy metal that does not degrade over time.
- There are no benefits to having lead in the human body.
Lead poisoning can cause:
- Lower IQ
- Behavior and learning problems
- Delinquent behaviors
- Slowed growth
- Hearing problems
- Kidney problems
- Seizures and death
Lead hazards are especially bad for children up to age 3 because:
- Their brains and nervous systems are more sensitive to the effects of lead
- Their growing bodies absorb more lead, especially if they do not get enough calcium and iron in their diet
- They put their hands and other objects that may be coated with lead dust into their mouths
Children should be tested for lead poisoning at 9-12 months of age and again at 18-24 months of age. Contact your doctor or the Peoria City/County Health Department at 679-6068. Lead tests are free for any child age 6 months to 6 years enrolled in Medicaid or WIC; the cost is $15 for children not enrolled in these programs.
The following links provide information on lead testing, health effects of lead, and information for parents, homeowners and building trades workers wishing to make older homes safe for children: