Primary prevention

Preventing exposure is the only effective approach to preventing toxicity.

Primary prevention of lead exposure in children

This necessitates the removal of lead from the environment prior to a child being exposed.[41]

The effectiveness of this approach has been demonstrated by the decrease in population blood lead with removal of lead from gasoline. Likewise, removing lead from paint in the US has dramatically improved the outlook for lead exposure for children.[5] Improved canning methods and other approaches have dramatically decreased lead exposure from food, as have removal, replacement, and discontinuation of lead water pipes and lead solders in water systems.[18][19]

Current evidence indicates that household educational interventions are ineffective in reducing blood lead levels in children as a population health measure.[42] Trials in low- and middle-income countries, and in differing socioeconomic groups in high-income countries, are required.

Limiting occupational exposure to lead

Can be achieved by good air exchange and filtration, appropriate use of protective clothing, and restrictions on eating and drinking in work areas. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) provides information for workers and employers about reducing exposure to lead. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health: lead Opens in new window

Education of lead-exposed workers has been promoted but appears to have little effect; better quality studies are required.[43]

Objectives and screening

The US Department of Health and Human Services Healthy People 2030 goal is to reduce the blood lead levels of children (ages 1 to 5 years) to ≤1.18 micrograms/dL, and of adults to ≤1.74 micrograms/dL.[44][45]

Mandatory lead screening programs exist in many areas to detect all children with lead poisoning. In the US, the Medicaid program requires blood lead screening tests at age 1 and age 2 years.[46] Children aged between 24 and 72 months, with no record of a previous blood screening test, are required to receive one.

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