Lead poisoning is when there is too much lead in the body. It is the most common preventable pediatric health problem in the United States today, and it is caused by exposure to lead that is either eaten or breathed, in the form of dust. The body carries the lead in the blood to soft tissues and bones, where it can be stored for many years. Lead harms several organs, including the nervous system and kidneys.

All children enrolled in the department's Medical Programs should receive a blood lead test at 12 months and 24 months of age. Children over the age of 24 months, up to their seventh birthday, should receive a blood lead test, if one has not already been done.

Your child's primary care provider and city and county health departments provide blood lead tests. These tests are covered by the department's Medical Programs.

Links:

Illinois Department of Public Health, Information about Lead Poisoning

Illinois Department of Public Health, How to protect Against Lead Poisoning (pdf)

Illinois Department of Public Health, How to Safely Remove Old Paint (pdf)

Illinois Department of Public Health Childhood Lead Fact Sheets