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Lead Poisons CHILDREN - Have YOUR KIDS been tested?

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How Can Lead Poisoning Affect My Child?

Brain damage
Reading and learning difficulties
Impaired speech and language development
Lowered IQ
Temper and attention problems
Kidney and liver damage

What Are the Warning Signs of Lead Poisoning?

The warning signs of lead poisoning are not always noticeable. Lead is an invisible danger. The only way to know if your children have lead poisoning is to have their blood tested.

Where Do Lead Hazards Come From?

PAINT Paint used before 1978 that is chipping or peeling may be a hazard. Windows, door frames, steps and porches are friction areas where chipped paint is likely to be found.

DUST Lead dust is the main source of lead poisoning. Lead dust can gather on household surfaces, in carpets and on toys. Home repairs and remodeling can disturb lead paint and create dust.

SOIL & DIRT Soil around homes and apartment buildings may contain lead. Children may come into contact with lead by playing in bare dirt. Lead in the soil may contaminate vegetables planted in the garden.

WATER PIPES & SOLDER Some household plumbing may contain lead solder. Lead may leach into the water when water sits in pipes. If this happens, the water you use for drinking, cooking or mixing baby formula can cause lead poisoning.

POTTERY, WORKPLACES & HOBBIES Some imported pottery and ceramic cookware may have lead in the glaze. Lead can also be brought into the home from the workplace (painters, plumbers, etc.) and hobbies (stained glass solder, fishing sinkers, etc.) that use lead.

Blood Lead Testing IS Important

The only way to know if your children have lead poisoning is to have their blood tested. The Center for Disease Control recommends screening for all children under the age of six. Ask your physician for a blood lead test. Free blood lead screening is available at the following clinics:

Josiah Hill, III Clinic
4616 North Albina
503.280.1616
Second Saturday of every month
10am � 2pm
Multnomah County Health Department Screening Clinics
Different locations every week.
For a screening clinic near you call 503.988.4000.

To read more about lead, click on one of the following:

LeadLine

Tips to Protect Your Children from Lead Poisoning

What Parents Should Know About Lead

Reducing Exposure to Lead