It seemed a simple solution: paint manufacturers added lead to paint to make it last longer and stick to surfaces better. Even though the practice was banned in 1978, it remains the number one environmental hazard to young children.
Right now, 535,000 children under the age of five have blood lead levels high enough to damage their health, according to the CDC. Twenty-four million homes in the U.S. contained deteriorated lead-based paint. An 11Alive investigation found Metro Atlanta counties are the epicenter of Georgia’s continuing lead problems.
Cobb, Fulton, DeKalb, Gwinnett, and Hall counties are all rated “high risk” for childhood lead poisoning, according to the Department of Public Health.
In 2014, more than 2,500 children in Georgia tested positive for lead. See the county-by-county list of lead results here.
Children are especially susceptible because their bodies easily absorb lead, harmful to their developing organs. According to the Georgia Department of Public Health, even low levels of lead can be harmful to children. Pregnant and breastfeeding women are also at risk of passing along high levels of lead exposure.
Serious and permanent effects of lead poisoning include learning and behavior problems, poor mental health, hearing problems, organ failure, and brain damage.
How do you test your child for lead?
A simple blood test is used to measure a child’s lead level. Your doctor or local health department can administer the test.
Who should test their home for lead?
Was your home built before 1978? Do you have children six or younger living in the home? Is there visible damage or peeling paint in the home, or outside in play areas? If you answered yes, you need to test your home.