Lead Poisoning Prevention Week Begins October 24 In Sacramento County

Press release from the Sacramento County Government:

October 21, 2021

Did you know that more than half of all homes in Sacramento County were built before 1980? Houses built before 1978 are likely to have lead in the paint. Not to mention that lead can be found in numerous other items around the home including plumbing, dirt, traditional home/folk remedies, imported cosmetics like surma, imported herbs and spices, imported or antique ceramic pottery, some toys and costume jewelry.

Occupational sources that can bring lead exposure at home include being a construction worker, mechanic or electrician, or spending time at a shooting range.

Lead is dangerous to young children, as even low levels can cause behavioral problems and learning disabilities. The good news is that lead poisoning is 100 percent preventable. Learn how to prevent lead poisoning at the Sacramento County Lead Poisoning Prevention website or the State of California’s Childhood Lead Exposure Prevention website.

If you think your child has been exposed to lead, ask your child’s doctor for a lead test at their next visit. If you would like to receive a free information packet on how to protect your child from lead, call the Sacramento County Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program at (916) 875-7151.

This press release was produced by the Sacramento County Government. The views expressed here are the author’s own.