Lead Poisoning

Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services provides resources on lead poisoning prevention, indicating Missouri is the nation’s top lead producer and has a high percentage of aging homes with lead-based paint. It offers guidance on blood lead testing, health effects and workplace safety to protect children and adults from exposure.

Continuing Education for Clinicians

Lead Poisoning Prevention Essentials: Clinical Knowledge For Clinicians

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Missouri Facts

Missouri is the #1 lead-producing state in the United States
Twenty-one percent of Missouri housing was built before 1950; a time when lead-based paint was widely used
Approximately 65 percent of Missouri housing was built before 1978 and may contain some lead-based paint

Visit these websites for additional information on lead:

Other Department of Health and Senior Services websites of interest may include:

Missouri Lead Risk Assessment Tool
Adult Blood Lead Epidemiology and Surveillance (ABLES)
Get the Lead Out of Schools Drinking Water
Lead Licensing (Information for homeowners and lead abatement professionals)

Information portals for lead data:

Frequently Asked Questions

What is lead?

Lead is a metal found naturally in the earth's crust. Lead has been used in our society in a variety of ways including paint, gasoline, and ceramic glazes, and some vinyl products, such as mini-blinds.

Who is at risk for lead poisoning?

Any child may be at risk for lead poisoning. Lead Poisoning can occur regardless of financial, socio-economical or cultural status. Young children are at greatest risk due to their frequent hand-to-mouth behavior and rapid development. Adults may be exposed to lead through their jobs, recreational activities, or hobbies.

How can lead affect my child?

Most often there are no obvious symptoms of lead poisoning. If symptoms do occur, they are often mistaken for the flu or other illnesses. The only way to know if you child has lead poisoning is to have his/her blood tested. Lead exposure may cause learning and behavioral problems, lower IQ levels, and interfere with growth and hearing.

What are the most common sources of lead poisoning?

Common sources include: lead dust, lead in soil, and peeling, chipping, or cracking lead based paint.

What are the major sources of recreational/hobby exposure to lead?

Sources include: stained glass making, home remodeling, glazed pottery making, firearm use and ammunition reloading, burning candles with lead wicks, and fishing sinker molding. If working with lead is unavoidable, carefully read and follow all labels and instructions, and take extra precautions to prevent ingesting or inhaling lead dust and fumes. Wash hands often and keep work areas clean and dust free. Wet mop floors and wipe down tables after working with materials containing lead. Do not allow children near work areas.

How can I protect my child?

Keep your child away from areas of chipping and flaking paint. Wash your child's hands, toys and pacifiers frequently. Provide your child with a diet rich in calcium, iron and protein, and low in fats and oils. Because dirt may contain lead, have your children play in grassy areas and take off their shoes before entering the house. If you work with lead in your job or hobby, change your clothes and shower before entering your home.

What is a blood test for lead?

A blood test is used to determine if there are high levels of lead in the body. Children less than six years old should be tested for lead. Remember, the only way to know if your child has lead poisoning is to have their blood tested. The state requires all children in high risk areas of the state to be tested annually for lead. Children in non-high risk areas of the state shall be assessed by the patient lead questionnaire and blood lead tested accordingly.

To have you child tested, contact your doctor or county health department.

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