MEDIA ADVISORY - KDHE to Host Lead Poisoning Prevention Seminar

Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Week is Oct. 23-27

The Kansas Department of Health & Environment will observe “Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Week” October 23-27. KDHE will be conducting a community-wide lead poisoning prevention seminar in the Marvin Auditorium at the Topeka-Shawnee County Public Library, 1515 S.W. 10 th Ave. in Topeka from 7-8 p.m. on Wednesday, October 25.

KDHE representatives will be on hand to present information about the dangerous health effects of lead in homes, especially its effect on young children. The presentation is for anyone who lives in a home built prior to 1978, which would likely contain lead-based paint. Guests can see an interactive display that helps illustrate where lead might be found in homes. Free blood lead testing will be offered by KDHE following the presentation for children less than 6 years old. Parents are encouraged to bring their children.

In 2005, KDHE received 327 reports of elevated blood lead levels in Kansas residents, with children and adolescents comprising the largest affected age groups. Blood lead levels as low as 10 micrograms per deciliter (ug/dL) are associated with harmful effects on children’s learning and behavior. High blood lead levels are associated with decreased intelligence, mental retardation, and hyperactivity.

To learn how to take precautions to protect your family, contact the KDHE Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program at 1-866-865-3233 or your local health department. Information about lead poisoning prevention is also available on the program’s Web site at www.kshealthyhomes.org.

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