Lead

Child Lead Poisoning Prevention

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) recommends universal blood lead testing for children living in Wisconsin. Universal testing means all children should receive a blood lead test at ages 1 and 2 as well as any child between ages 3 and 5 who has not had a previous test. Children can have a blood lead test done at their physician’s office or by appointment at the Public Health office.

Childhood lead poisoning remains a serious public health threat, despite significant progress in recent decades. Lead, a toxic metal, can cause irreversible damage to a child’s developing brain, affecting their learning, behavior, and future potential. A simple blood test can detect lead exposure early, allowing parents and healthcare providers to take crucial steps to protect a child’s health.

The long-term effects of lead in a child can be severe and include:

Learning disabilities
Decreased growth
Hyperactivity
Impaired hearing
Brain damage

If caught early, these effects can be limited by reducing exposure to lead and medical treatment.