Children under 6 years old are at risk for lead poisoning because their bodies more easily absorb lead compared to adults. Additionally, they tend to put their hands and other objects into their mouth that may be contaminated with lead dust.

Children who live in households at or below the federal poverty level and those who live in housing built before 1978 are at the greatest risk of lead exposure.¹ Also, communities of color are at a higher risk of lead exposure because they may not have access to safe, affordable housing or face discrimination when trying to find a safe, healthy place to live.¹ This is called housing inequity, and it puts some children, such as non-Hispanic Black persons, at a greater risk of exposure to lead.¹

Children may not show signs of lead exposure until they are older. The only way to find out if your child has been exposed is to get a lead test. Lead testing is covered by Medicaid, Nevada Check Up, and most private insurance.

CDC Testing Guidelines:

• Test children at 12 and 24 months of age or at least once before age 6, if not previously tested.

Providers should also screen children who are symptomatic or potential exposure to lead has been identified, regardless of the child’s age.

Providers for children not eligible for Medicaid or NV Checkup should – at a minimum – conduct a lead risk evaluation using the Childhood Lead Risk Questionnaire (CLRQ) to determine the risk of potential exposure during a healthcare visit if screening is not a viable option.

Consider a blood test, regardless of age, if children have any of the following conditions:

• Pica, developmental delays, behavior problems, ADHD
• Unexplained illness such as severe anemia, lethargy, abdominal pain
• Ingestion of paint chips or object that might contain lead

References:

¹Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021, April). Populations at Higher Risk. Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/lead/prevention/populations.htm