The Baltimore City Health Department seeks to reduce lead poisoning in the City of Baltimore through primary prevention and aggressive enforcement of the city’s lead laws. Lead poisoning has decreased significantly since 2000. Read more in the most recent press release (2010) (pdf).
- What is Lead?
- Where is Lead Found?
- Where Else Can Lead Be Found?
- Who is Most at Risk?
- What are Symptoms of Lead Poisoning?
- What Do I Do if I am Concerned My Child has Been Exposed to Lead?
- What Are the Effects of Lead Poisoning?
- How Can I Prevent Lead Poisoning?
- What Buildings Have Outstanding Lead Violations?
What is Lead?
Lead is a poisonous metal that was used in building construction and in the making of other household paints prior to 1978. Even though its use was banned, lead still remains a hazard in many places. When something with lead in it starts to deteriorate, it becomes dust, which is poisonous if you breathe it or eat it.
Where is Lead Found?
Lead can be found on painted surfaces inside and outside the home. Lead is usually found in:
- Window sills
- Window frames
- Door Frames
- Door jambs
- Railings
- Steps
- Soil
What are Symptoms of Lead Poisoning?
- Fatigue
- Weight loss
- Abdominal Cramps
- Muscle Weakness
- Headaches
- Loss of appetite
What Do I Do if I am Concerned My Child has Been Exposed to Lead?
- The best thing to do is to call your pediatrician and ask them to perform a lead test.
- If you don’t have a pediatrician, call the Baltimore Health Care Access hotline to get assistance with insurance and other community health resources.
- Phone: 410-649-0500
- Spanish and English speaking
- There are some locations that offer reduced cost lead testing:
- Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Care-A-Van
- Phone: 410-550-5818 for general information
- Phone: 410-913-5126 to make an appointment at one of the mobile sites.
- Spanish and English Speaking
- Baltimore Medical Systems
- You can find a list of their health centers by clicking here.
- Spanish and English speaking
The Effects of Lead Poisoning:
Lead poisoning can cause:
- Learning Disabilities
- Severe Brain Damage
- Memory Loss
- Hearing Impairment
- Stunted Growth
- Hyperactivity
- Hypertension
- Kidney Damage
- Seizures
- Coma/Death
Preventing Lead Poisoning:
Lead poisoning can be prevented and controlled by:
- Blood testing children 1-6
- Getting your home visually inspected and dust tested
- Keeping your home free of chipping and peeling paint
- Keeping your home free of dust
- Frequently washing your hands
- Washing toys and pacifiers that children often put in their mouth
- Practicing good nutrition
- Using a HEPA vacuum
Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program The Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention program provides: – Legal Enforcement – Outreach & Education
– Case management for children with lead poisoning. Contact us: Call 443-984-2460