Childhood lead poisoning is one of the most common pediatric health problems in the United States, even though it is entirely preventable. All children in North Carolina should be screened for lead poisoning at least once before the age of six years. The State Health Director’s recommendation for lead poisoning prevention in North Carolina requires a blood lead screening at ages 12 months and again at 24 months for all children participating in Health Check (Medicaid), NC Health Choice, or WIC. This recommendation is based upon guidelines that have been issued by the Center for Disease Control (CDC). The recommendation also requires an environmental investigation by the local health department when a child’s blood level is persistent > 15 ugdL, or is confirmed to be > 20 ug/dL. Because there is growing evidence that even low blood levels are harmful to young children, the Lead Program Coordinator provides tracking and follow-up, education, and nutritional counseling to all Person County families where a child’s blood lead level is > 10 ug/dL. When medical management is necessary, this is assumed by their primary care physician.
In 2001-2002, 19.8% of the target population (children 1 and 2 years old) was screened appropriately. In 1998, 24.8% of the target populations were screened. Through a collaborative effort with the WIC program at the local health department, all children seen in WIC at 18 and 30 months of age receive a blood lead test, unless there is documentation that testing was already completed at 12 and 24 months of age.
The health department will continue to follow the minimum recommendations from the Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program. The Lead Program coordinator will follow up on all children identified through the WIC screenings. Plans to provide comprehensive childhood lead poisoning education and prevention efforts will continue upon available Child Health money and money generated through the State Lead Program.
Consistent or Recurring Issues/Problems:
- Lack of awarenss of lead hazards in some identified communities
- Lack of awareness of lead hazards when remodeling older homes.
- Lead screening not provided, as recommended per state guidelines, to all children under 6 years old as apart of a well child check-up.
Suggested Solutions:
- Continue to provide information and counseling to parents regarding the importance of lead screening.
Future Program Goals:
Identify ways to increase community awareness of lead hazards; including the importance of screening all children as per the state and CDC guidelines.