Lead exposure can be harmful to a child’s health, leading to brain damage, slowed growth and development, learning/behavior problems, and hearing and speech problems. Lead exposure is preventable by encouraging families to take primary prevention efforts such as removing lead hazards in paint, drinking water, toys, jewelry, and soil.
Secondary prevention includes simple blood lead tests, follow-up care as necessary, and referrals.
The South Dakota Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program (SD CLPPP) recognizes there is NO safe level of lead in the blood and recommends that South Dakota healthcare providers follow the American Academy of Pediatrics Bright Future screening guidelines: assess all children for the risk of lead exposure at 6, 9, 12, 18, & 24 months, and at 3, 4, 5, and 6 years at well-child visit. If a known or possible risk is identified, conduct a blood lead level testing.
South Dakota Materials
- Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Clinic Posters (11x17)
- Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Handout