North Carolina Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program
Protecting Our Children's Health
The North Carolina Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program, established in 1994, takes a proactive approach to safeguarding young children from lead poisoning. This preventable condition can have serious consequences for a child's development, making early detection and intervention crucial.
North Carolina Lead Surveillance System (NC LEAD)
North Carolina Electronic Disease Surveillance System (NCEDSS) is a component of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s initiative to move states to web-based surveillance and reporting systems. NC LEAD is a module of NCEDSS. NC LEAD provides direct access to clinical and environmental data and immediate notification to medical providers of children in need of clinical and environmental follow-up.
Why Lead Screening is Mandatory at Age One
All North Carolina children undergo a blood test at one year old to measure their blood lead levels. This screening is vital because lead poisoning often presents with no initial symptoms. Early detection allows for prompt action to mitigate further exposure and potential health problems.
The Importance of a Home Investigation
If a child's blood lead level exceeds 5 micrograms per deciliter (ug/dL) in two consecutive tests, the Environmental Health department offers a home investigation. This proactive measure helps identify the source of lead exposure within the child's environment. Common culprits include:
- Lead-Based Paint: This is a primary concern, particularly in older homes built before 1978 when lead paint usage was common.
- Contaminated Elements: Lead can be present in air, water, and soil, sometimes due to industrial processes or lead-based products like gasoline (phased out in the US).
- Household Items: Lead can lurk in unexpected places like mini-blinds, certain ceramics, pewter cookware, and even imported toys, crayons, or jewelry.
The Dangers of Lead Poisoning
Even low levels of lead exposure can have a detrimental impact on a child's development. It can lead to:
- Learning and behavioral difficulties
- Impaired brain development
- Hearing loss
- Anemia (reduced red blood cell count)
- Limited physical growth
In severe cases, high lead levels can cause organ damage, seizures, coma, or even death.
Protecting Your Child
For more information about the North Carolina Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program and how to keep your child safe, visit the NC LEAD website. By understanding the risks and taking necessary precautions, we can work together to create a lead-free environment for North Carolina's children.