June 7, 2023, 10:43 p.m.

Prevent Lead Poisoning in Children

Author: SUBHAZ

Any home or building built before 1978 should be tested for lead in its paint and surrounding soil. If a child lives in the home, they should be tested for lead poisoning.

When you’re a parent, there are a million things you worry about to keep your children safe. Your home shouldn’t be one of them.

Prior to 1978, paint was made with lead, which can be a serious health hazard. Infants or toddlers are more at-risk for exposure since they can put cracked paint chips in their mouths.

It's important for parents to understand the steps and precautions to take to avoid potentially exposing children to lead poisoning.

“Despite the removal of lead from American paint in 1978, it remains a major source of lead exposure,” said U.S. Air Force Maj. (Dr.) Nhien Pho, medical director of pediatrics and acting chief of medical staff, 375th Pediatrics Clinic, Scott Air Force Baseopens TRICARE.mil, Illinois.

Lead-contaminated paintopens CDC and dust are the most hazardous sources of lead poisoning for U.S. children, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Lead-based paints were banned for use in housing in 1978, and lead poisoning had been steadily decreasing since the 1980’s.

This law only applied to household use, and lead paint can still be found in schools. “Lead paint in schools is a significant potential source of exposure,” said U.S. Air Force Capt. Michael Y. Migita, pediatric medical director at Beale Air Force Baseopens TRICARE.mil, California.

Exposures in the Military
Pho acknowledged that lead exposure is uncommon on military installations but does point out that there is a risk of exposure from lead transference from the field.

In the military, “the shooting range can result in lead dust exposure which service members can bring home,” said U.S. Air Force Capt. Scott Corrigan, pediatrician at Beale Air Force Baseopens TRICARE.mil, California.

When on or near a firing range and ammunition, service members are encouraged to change clothes and their shoes/boots before returning home and put them in a plastic bag. Once home, bathe and wash uniforms separately to avoid lead transference.