#kNOwLEAD: Lead Poisoning Prevention

History of Lead in Jefferson County, MO

Jefferson County Missouri has a long history with lead, with half of the county previously part of “The Old Lead Belt”. There are areas throughout the county that are contaminated due to the process of lead production, such as lead smelting and tailings removal.  All aspects of the environment including; air, soil, ground and surface water, and sediment are impacted.  The lead contamination has spread from its original sources due to natural events (such as floods) and man-made activities (such as the transportation and use of “fill dirt”).

In 1980, the Superfund Law was enacted that gave the EPA the authority to find and clean up lead contaminated areas around the country using funds from potentially responsible parties. Due to the lead contamination in the environment, especially in the Big River and its flood plain, the EPA has designated Jefferson County to be a Superfund site for lead remediation.

Health Effects

Lead exposure (inhalation and oral ingestion) can cause a range of adverse health effects.

Lead exposure in children can cause:

• Behavioral disorders

• Learning disabilities

• Nervous system and kidney damage

• Hearing and speech problems

Lead exposure in adults can cause:

• Fertility problems

• High blood pressure

• Digestive problems

• Nerve disorders

• Memory and concentration problems

• Muscle and joint pain

Prevention

• Wash hands and toys

• Remove shoes before entering the house

• Keep your home well-maintained

• Get your children tested for blood lead

• Have your soil tested

• Renovate your home safely

Blood Lead Level Testing

How do I schedule a lead test for my child?

• Give our office a call and ask to set up a lead screening appointment.

What is involved in testing my child for blood lead?

• Our screening test is a fast finger stick with results in just 3 minutes. If lead level is elevated, a venous blood draw is needed to confirm.

What is an elevated blood lead level?

• An elevated blood lead level is anything 5 ug/dL or greater.

How do I know if my child has been tested or not?

• You can call our office and our blood lead coordinator can look up whether your child has been tested here or anywhere else.