Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention

The Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Act of 1991 was passed to establish environmental investigation to ensure childhood lead exposures are identified and reduced or eliminated. The program is administered by the State of California and funded by grants to local agencies. Consumer Protection Health Services conducts investigations of homes in which it has been determined by blood testing that one or more children have high blood lead levels.

Some of the items sampled for lead include paint, soil, dust, ceramic ware, home remedies and cosmetics, imported food and beverages, drinking water and plumbing materials.

Elevated blood lead levels in children can lead to learning disabilities, gastrointestinal problems, neurological abnormalities and other health effects. For more information on the health effects of lead, visit the U.S. EPA web site link below:

http://www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/leadinfo.htm