Lead is a toxic metal that poses health risks at any age, with no safe level in children's blood. From October 20 to 26, National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week focuses on educating the public about lead exposure prevention under the theme “Bright Futures Begin Lead-Free.”
Lead can be found in various sources such as old paint, soil, house dust, toys, jewelry, and water. In Hawaiʻi, while public water systems generally lack lead contamination, older buildings may have fixtures and piping that contribute to lead in drinking water. A project funded by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency involves testing for lead in schools and childcare centers to ensure safety.
“Keiki are especially susceptible to the effects of lead exposure because they are still in the developmental stages,” said Dr. Ruben Frescas of the Department of Health (DOH) Children with Special Health Needs Branch. He noted that children could encounter lead at home or where they play and receive care.
Lead exposure in children can result in learning and behavior issues affecting adulthood outcomes like educational attainment and income levels. For pregnant individuals, it can harm fetal development leading to miscarriages or stillbirths. Adults exposed to high levels may face serious health problems including anemia, kidney damage, infertility, cancer, nerve damage, hearing loss, and heart disease.
The DOH Hawaiʻi Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program (HI-CLPPP), funded by the CDC, aims to prevent children's exposure to lead and provide necessary interventions if exposure occurs. The CDC recommends risk assessments for children during well-child visits with blood tests for those at higher risk.
“Lead poisoning is completely preventable,” Frescas emphasized. “Taking a few simple steps today can make a big difference tomorrow.”
For more information on preventing lead exposure visit lead.hawaii.gov.