Lead Prevention

Minnesota Department of Health Lead Prevention

What is Lead?

Lead is a heavy metal that has been used for thousands of years in various products and is still in use today. It is naturally found in the air, soil, and dust, as well as in older homes built before 1978 that may contain lead-based paint.

The primary source of lead exposure for children today is lead dust, which can result from:

• Chipped or peeling lead-based paint
• Contaminated soil tracked into the home
• Home remodeling or renovation projects

Why is Lead Dangerous?

Even small amounts of lead exposure can cause serious health problems, especially for children under the age of six. Their developing brains and nervous systems are highly sensitive to lead poisoning.

Health Risks of Lead Exposure:

• Nervous system and kidney damage
• Learning disabilities and attention-deficit disorders
• Speech, language, and behavior problems
• Poor muscle coordination and bone growth
• Hearing damage
• High levels of lead exposure can cause seizures, unconsciousness, or even death

Adults are also at risk, as lead exposure can:

• Harm a developing fetus
• Cause fertility problems
• Lead to high blood pressure, digestive issues, memory problems, and muscle pain

How Does Lead Enter the Body?

Lead enters the bloodstream through ingestion or inhalation. Once in the body, some lead is excreted, but a portion is stored in bones and can remain there for decades.

Factors Affecting Lead Absorption:

• Age of the child
• Nutritional status
• Source and duration of exposure
• Other underlying health conditions

Common Sources of Lead

• Lead-based paint & dust: Found in older homes, especially around windows
• Soil: Contaminated by past use of leaded gasoline or deteriorated exterior paint
• Food & spices: Some imported spices and foods may contain lead (e.g., turmeric, chili powder, coriander)
• Water: Can contain lead from old pipes, lead solder, or brass fixtures
• Traditional medicine & cosmetics: Often found in items purchased outside the U.S.
• Work & hobbies: Some examples of lead exposure can occur in construction, auto repair, battery recycling, and antique refinishing
• Other household items: Jewelry, keys, fishing sinkers, toys, chalk, and pottery

Who Should Get a Blood Lead Test?

The Minnesota Lead Poisoning Prevention Act aims to reduce lead exposure in children and pregnant women.

Recommended Testing:

• Universal blood lead testing for children at 12 and 24 months
• Risk-based screening for children 25 months to 17 years old, based on exposure factors (e.g., living in a home built before 1978, exposure to contaminated soil, family occupations involving lead)

Where Can I Get a Blood Lead Test for My Child?

Blood lead tests are covered by insurance and medical assistance programs. Contact:

• Your child’s primary health care provider

What Happens After a Lead Test?

• All blood lead test results are reported to the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH).
• If a child’s lead level is 3.5 mcg/dL or higher, they may receive a referral for public health support and resources.
• Follow-up testing and health education will be provided to the family.

Identifying the Source of Lead Exposure

• If lead levels are 10 mcg/dL or higher, a MDH risk assessor will conduct an environmental risk assessment in the home.
• Assessors test paint, dust, soil, and drinking water to identify lead hazards.
• Watch this video here to learn more about a home lead risk assessment.

Steps to Lower Your Child’s Blood Lead Level

Healthy Eating:

• Feed children foods rich in calcium, iron, and vitamin C to reduce lead absorption.
• Wash fruits and vegetables before eating.
• Store food in lead-free containers (avoid antique ceramics).
• Ensure children eat at the table and not off the floor.

Medical Care:

• Routine check-ups and follow-up lead tests are essential.
• Follow healthcare provider recommendations to manage and reduce lead levels.

Tips to Reduce Lead in Your Home

• Clean regularly using wet washing techniques with detergent and water.
• Use HEPA-certified vacuums for lead dust cleanup.
• Wash children’s hands, bottles, toys, and teething rings frequently.
• Keep windows closed on windy days to prevent contaminated dust from entering.
• Cover bare soil with grass, mulch, or durable ground cover.
• Remove shoes before entering the home to reduce tracking in contaminated soil.

How to Safely Remove Lead from Your Home

• Do NOT remove lead paint yourself! Hire a certified lead professional to remove or encapsulate lead paint safely.
• Water Safety:
  • Use cold tap water for drinking and cooking.
  • If your home has lead pipes, flush the tap for 3-5 minutes before using water.
  • Consider a lead-removing water filter if needed.