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5/ TheBucknerClarion.com June 26, 2014 Check for Lead Children More Prone to Lead Poisoning By Jessica Mauzey Lead was a commonly used substance prior to 1978. While it was a common additive, it was frequently found in house paint, gasoline, pipes and plumbing fixtures, toys and furniture. Most cases of lead poisoning developed over time, causing many families to be unaware of its harmful effects. In 1978, the federal government banned lead in residential settings. Now, more than 35 years later, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates at least 4 million homes still contain high levels of lead, posing a health risk for many of the nation's children. Lead poisoning can happen to anyone but is more common among children under age six, because the brain and nervous system are still developing. Children are less likely to wash their hands consistently and have more hand-to-mouth contact. Some children eat peeling or chipping paint because of its "sweet" taste. In addition to ingestion, lead also enters the body by breathing in dust particles. This can occur during remodeling, or in frequently used areas such as doors and windows which are not wet-wiped regularly. Previously, a blood lead level of 10 micrograms per deciliter (µg/dL) in a child was considered a high and dangerous level. In 2012, the CDC lowered this recommendation to 5 µg/dL. One reason for the change was increased information about lead poisoning. While a level of five is considered a threat to the physical body and organs, studies show that lowered IQ and attention problems as well as educational delays can be developed from smaller levels of exposure. Lead poisoning is rarely determined by a sudden onset of symptoms; thus, receiving a proper diagnosis is often difficult. To combat this problem, several pediatric practices make lead level tests a part of each child's annual checkup. This test is recommended and covered by most private insurance companies as well as Medicaid programs. While proper and routine medical examinations are necessary, so is parental education. The National Lead Information Center and CDC offer the following recommendations: Prevent exposure ● Frequently check windows, window sills, doors and frames, stairs and porches for deteriorating paint; wet- wipe these areas regularly. ● Let tap water run for a minute before cooking or drinking. ● Restrict children from playing directly in soil; remove shoes before entering indoors or use doormats. ● Regularly wash hands and children's toys. ● Do not use folk remedies that contain "greta," "azarcon," "nzu," "poto," or "calabash chalk." ● If renovating, hire a certified professional, trained in lead- safe work practices. Complications and symptoms of lead exposure and/or poisoning ● Behavior and attention problems, and aggression ● Educational delays, lower IQ or loss of developmental skills ● Hearing problems ● Slowed body growth or reduced sensations ● Abnormal kidney function ● Abdominal pain, constipation or low appetite and energy ● Difficulty sleeping, irritability and headaches Very high lead level symptoms ● Vomiting ● Staggering walk ● Muscle weakness ● Seizures ● Coma In addition to recognizing symptoms, families should also be aware of their rights as consumers. In the U.S., there are numerous restrictions on the use of lead, but in other countries these restrictions are not as strict or simply do not exist. Families should be cognizant of items that were made elsewhere including painted toys, ceramic dishes, cosmetics, mini blinds and certain imported candies and food. If renting a home that was built before 1978, the federal government has restrictions landlords must follow before a lease is signed. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the landlord must provide an EPA-approved pamphlet about identifying and controlling lead- based paint hazards. Secondly, the landlord is required to disclose any known or suspected information about lead within the home, including previous testing results. Lastly, an attachment must be present in the lease that includes a "lead warning statement," which also serves to confirm the landlord has complied with all notification requirements. If concerns still exist, or the landlord is unsure of the potential lead hazards, renters have the right to request that the landlord provide a lead hazard inspection report prior to signing a lease. When selling or purchasing a home, many of the same restrictions apply. The seller is required to provide an EPA pamphlet as well as disclose known or suspected lead hazards. In addition, the individuals purchasing the property are allowed a 10-day period to conduct a paint inspection or risk assessment. These measures were implemented to protect both the inhabitant and seller/landlord. If information is withheld or law violations exist, penalties can include fines and incarceration. To learn more about lead and lead hazards, visit www.epa.gov/lead, www.cdc.gov/lead, or call the National Lead Information Center at 1.800.424.LEAD (5323). For families with young children who qualify with an elevated blood lead level, Children's Mercy Hospital offers education and an in-home risk assessment. More information can be found by searching "lead" at www.childrensmercy.org or by calling 816.234.3000.

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