Lead Poisoning 
Lead is a chemical element that has been used in paint, gas for cars, weights, pottery and many other things and can be very harmful to humans who swallow or breathe in the lead, which is often in the form of dust.
Children from 6 months to 6 years, are especially vulnerable to lead poisoning and can get very sick from lead poisoning. A child who swallows or breathes in lead may suffer damage to his or her brain, nerves, blood, and other parts of the body. This could result in a lowered IQ, behavior problems, mental retardation, kidney disease, heart disease, and possibly death.
Find Out More About Lead Poisoning …
Orange County Health Department:
- Environmental Health Services - (919) 245-2360
- Child Health Coordinator - (919) 245-2429
State Agencies:
NC Department of Health and Human Services
Office of the State Health Director: (919) 715-4126
http://www.epi.state.nc.us/epi/lead.html
http://ncchildcare.dhhs.state.nc.pd_forms/Lead_Poisoning.pdf
NC Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Environmental Epidemiologist: (919) 715-3293
Surveillance Coordinator: (919) 715-1004
Federal Agencies:
CDC Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program
Information on research, grant funds, and screening guidelines in addition to lead poisoning prevention tips.
National Lead Information Center
A clearinghouse for lead information from various federal government agencies. Copies of the documents can be ordered by email using their online form.
Case Studies in Environmental Medicine: Lead Toxicity
The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry's site contains case studies which illustrate lead poisoning causes and effects.
A HUD site with information on lead hazards in housing.
Lead Poisoning Prevention Outreach Program
A program of the National Safety Council’s Environmental Health Center. Contains a list of educational resources on lead poisoning.
National lead information center. Questions parents ask about lead poisoning.
Other Agencies:
American Association of Pediatrics
Information on Lead Screening Recommendations
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