Awareness efforts across Louisiana are highlighting the importance of lead screening to protect children’s health and development, especially during National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week.
Lead exposure remains one of the most serious environmental health risks for young children, particularly in homes built before 1978. While major sources such as lead-based paint and gasoline have been removed from common use, children may still be exposed through contaminated soil, household dust, imported products, and aging water systems.
“Every year, Louisiana Healthcare Connections welcomes approximately 12,000 Louisiana babies into the world. That’s why we must work together to reduce avoidable health risks like lead poisoning,” said Dr. Stewart Gordon, Chief Medical Officer for Louisiana Healthcare Connections. “Young children are especially vulnerable, and a simple screening can identify elevated lead levels early, before lasting damage is done.”
Lead exposure can have serious and lasting effects on a child’s development, including learning disabilities, behavioral challenges, and in severe cases, neurological damage. Pregnant women exposed to lead may also pass it to their unborn children.
“Lead exposure is entirely preventable, and yet it continues to threaten the health of too many Louisiana children,” said Shannon Soileau, Section Chief of Environmental Epidemiology and Toxicology at the Louisiana Department of Health. “By raising awareness, encouraging routine screening, and providing families with tools to reduce risks at home, we can help children grow and thrive.”
Health officials recommend that all children be screened for lead poisoning once by age one and again by age two. Parents are encouraged to speak with their child’s provider about testing, especially if their child lives in or regularly visits older homes or if recent renovations have taken place.
Families can also take simple steps at home to assess and reduce risk. Common risk factors include living in a home built before 1978, playing in bare soil near the home, recent home renovations, or household exposure to lead through certain occupations.
In addition to promoting screenings, efforts across the state continue to focus on education and home safety as part of broader maternal and child health initiatives.
For more information on lead screening or to access a risk checklist, families can visit the Louisiana Department of Health’s lead prevention resources or contact the Louisiana Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program.