Childhood lead poisoning is a preventable environmental health problem in the United States. About a million children in the United States have blood lead levels of at least 10 micrograms per deciliter (ug/dL), a level high enough to adversely affect their intelligence, behavior and development. It is important that parents with children under the age of six have their child’s blood tested for lead exposure at their pediatrician's office.

Lead-based paint is the most common lead poisoning hazard and is often found in older homes. It can flake and generate dust that children can ingest through hand-to-mouth activity.

Buildings that were constructed prior to 1978 could contain lead-based paint. Renovation work to repair non-intact lead paint should be performed by a certified lead renovator.

Other common sources of lead exposure include:

• Herbs and spices that were grown in soils contaminated with lead

• Vinyl mini blinds sold before 1997

• Some candies imported from Mexico and Asia

• Bullets and batteries

• Some toys and toy jewelry

• Old water pipes

• Lead glaze in some ceramic containers, cookware or tableware

• Some imported cosmetics, including Kohl, Surma and Sindoor

• Some home remedies (e.g., Greta and Azarcon)

• Some ceremonial powders, including Kumkum, Rangoli and Vibhuti

Lead Resource Links:

• NC Lead Prevention Program
• Protect Your Children (EPA)
• CDC’s Lead Poisoning Prevention Program
• CDC Report on Lead in Spices, Herbal Remedies and Ceremonial Powders

Air quality is important for all who live or work in Wake County. Ozone is the main air pollutant of concern in this area. Mold and ozone are irritants that can be particularly harmful to people with breathing problems, especially children with asthma.

More information on air quality issues is available via the North Carolina Division of Air Quality website.