Trumbull Health Department Promotes Lead-Free Kids for a Healthy Future

Childhood lead poisoning is considered the most preventable environmental disease among young children today. Nearly half a million children living in the United States have blood lead levels above 5 micrograms per deciliter, the reference level at which the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), recommends public health actions be initiated. Lead exposure can affect nearly every system in the body. Because lead exposure often occurs with no obvious symptoms, it frequently goes unrecognized. Major sources of lead exposure among United States children are lead-based paint and lead-contaminated dust found in deteriorating buildings. Children can also be exposed to lead from additional sources including contaminated drinking water, take-home exposures from a workplace, and lead in soil. A simple blood test can prevent permanent damage that will last a lifetime.

To increase awareness of childhood lead poisoning prevention, the Trumbull Health Department, along with the CDC, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, is participating in National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week (NLPPW) October 22-28. This year’s theme, “Lead-Free Kids for a Healthy Future,” underscores the importance of testing your home, testing your child, learning about drinking water, and learning how to prevent lead poisoning’s serious health effects.

“The Trumbull Health Department has a variety of free educational brochures available in our office at 335 White Plains Road,” said Rhonda Capuano, Trumbull Health Department Director of Health. “Residents can stop in anytime between 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday – Friday, to pick up brochures.”

Parents can reduce a child’s exposure to lead in many ways. Here are some simple things you can do to help protect your family:

- Wash hands and toys regularly.

- Clean dusty surfaces with a wet mop or damp cloth.

- Run cold water for at least a minute before using if you have older plumbing containing lead pipes or fittings.

- Eat a healthy diet. Regular meals and good nutrition may help lower lead absorption.

- Get your home tested. Before you buy an older home, ask for a lead inspection. Homes built prior to 1978 have lead-based paint.

- Get your child tested. Even if your young children seem healthy, ask your doctor to test them for lead.

- Get the facts. Your local health department can provide you with helpful information about preventing childhood lead poisoning. Contact them at 203-452-1030 or visit www.trumbull-ct.gov.

For more information regarding lead poisoning prevention visit the Trumbull Health Department website at www.trumbull-ct.gov

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The Trumbull Health Department is committed to improving the quality of life for all it serves through the promotion of health, prevention of disease, and by assuring a safe and clean environment for our residents. For more information about the Trumbull Health Department call 203-452-1030 or visit trumbull-ct.gov/THD.