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Why do we have a lead program?
Preventing lead poisoning is very important, especially for children between the ages of six months and six years, when growth and development are most rapid. During this period, a child's body is more vulnerable to the effects of lead. Lead poisoning can cause learning disabilities, behavior problems, anemia, slowed growth, hearing loss and death. Many of the problems caused by lead poisoning are permanent.
What causes lead poisoning?
The leading cause of lead poisoning in children is lead paint. Chipping lead paint can contaminate house dust, and when children put their hands, toys or other objects in their mouths, they swallow the dust that can cause lead poisoning. Eating dirt or soil from around a house that is painted with lead paint also can cause lead poisoning. Sometimes lead is used in food cans or dishes made of pottery and crystal. Children may get lead poisoning from eating food prepared or stored in these containers. Jewelry painted or made from gold, silver or other metals also can cause lead poising if children put those objects in their mouths.
Do we still have lead paint in Kansas City?
Lead was banned from house paint in 1978, but many houses in Kansas City were painted with lead paint before the ban. About 80 percent of the houses in Kansas City could still contain lead paint. Because of this, the State of Missouri considers Kansas City an area where children are at high-risk for lead poisoning and recommends all children between the ages of six months and six years be tested for lead poisoning once a year.
What does the CLPPP do?
 To help protect children from the dangers of lead poisoning, the Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program provides the following services:
- Free blood tests for children ages 6 months to 6 years and pregnant women.
- Case management services, including lead inspections and nursing care for lead poisoned children.
- Free removal of lead paint hazards for qualified homeowners.
- Educational presentations for professional and community groups.
- Lead screenings for day cares and other groups
- Free literature.
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