How to figure out if you/your children are at risk of lead poisoning?

Question

Things I&rsquo;ve heard aboutLead blood testsTesting walls, though painting over with many layers may be okWhat&rsquo;s worth doing if you want to ensure you and your kids aren&rsquo;t at risk?

throwawayboise · Accepted Answer

Young children should/will be tested at one of their normal pediatric "well check" visits.
If you live in an older house (let's say built before 1980) check for cracking/peeling paint on woodwork. Paint on walls is less likely to be peeling in my experience, but of course be on the lookout for that also.
By now, any lead paint has probably been painted over, so if everything looks solid it's best to leave it alone.
You can buy inexpensive lead paint test kits at any hardware/home improvement store.
Also be aware of older venetian blinds, some of these can contain lead.

PaulHoule · Answer

The Tompkins County Health Department expects pediatricians or family doctors to test kids for lead at age 1 and 2.
https://tompkinscountyny.gov/health/lead/index
Here is what the CDC says
https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/lead/prevention/blood-lead-levels.h...
It is an easy test, ask your primary care provider.

nitwit005 · Answer

If you're in a major city, check if they have an existing program. Several of the cities near me with older housing stock do (SF bay area).

mawadev · Answer

Testing the tap water comes to mind