Lead Poisoning: The Hidden Danger and How Screening Can Protect Your Child’s Health

Lead poisoning is a serious health concern, especially for young children. It can cause irreversible damage to a child’s developing brain and nervous system, leading to learning disabilities, developmental delays, and other serious health problems. Unfortunately, most children exposed to lead show no immediate symptoms, making regular lead screening essential. 

Dr. Maria Boylan of Elliot Family Medicine at Bedford explains:  

How children are exposed to lead   

Lead can be found in several places in and around the home, especially in older buildings. Common sources of lead exposure include: 

– Lead-based paint, typically found in homes built before 1978 

– Lead-contaminated dust and soil 

– Water from older lead pipes 

Even very low levels of lead exposure can negatively affect a child’s development. 

The importance of lead screening for 1- and 2-year-olds   

Children are particularly vulnerable to lead poisoning during early development. That’s why the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that all children be tested for lead at ages 1 and 2. Lead screening is done with a simple finger prick and identifies elevated lead levels before they cause more serious health issues. 

Elliot Health System’s commitment to lead screening  

Elliot Health System has taken significant steps to address this issue in our community. As part of our initiative, we’ve made it easier for families to access lead screening during routine pediatric checkups. Our goal is to raise awareness about lead exposure risks and ensure that every child has access to testing. 

Annual checkups are key 

Annual checkups are essential for lead screening and monitoring your child’s overall health and development. These visits allow your pediatrician to check for other potential health issues and ensure your child meets key developmental milestones. 

Don’t wait for symptoms. Talk to your pediatrician today about lead screening for your 1- or 2-year-old. Early detection of lead poisoning can make a huge difference in your child’s health and future. 

Maria Boylan, DO is board-certified in family medicine and is in practice at Elliot Family Medicine at Bedford.