Childhood Lead Poisoning Case Management
How to Apply
Please call 240-777-3118 or 240-777-3160 for information.
The program also accepts referrals from the Maryland Department of Environment, medical providers, community organizations, schools and local daycare facilities.
Documents To Bring
None
Eligibility Requirements
- Child must be under six years of age
- Montgomery County resident
- Blood lead level over 10 micrograms per deciliter
Fees and Payments
None
FAQ's
1. Who is at risk?
Children under the age of six years and pregnant women are most at risk. A blood lead test is advised for all children up to six years of age. Attention deficit disorder, hyperactivity, learning disabilities, convulsions, hearing loss, or mental retardation may result from too much lead in the blood.
2. How can I tell if my child has too much lead in his/her body?
The only way to know for sure is to have your doctor do a blood test.
3. What can I do to prevent lead poisoning?
The best way to prevent lead poisoning is to remove the source of lead. If you cannot remove peeling or chipping lead-based paint right away, block the area with a heavy chair so a child cannot get to it. You can also shut the door to a room, or move a crib or bed away from the wall. Remove the lead source promptly and safely.
Protect your child from lead dust by wet washing the floors and wiping down your window sills, woodwork, chairs and tables often. Be sure to wash your child's hands, face, and toys often with soap and water.
You may also use a High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) vacuum clener with a specialized filter designed to trap virtually all of the lead dust. This prevents small particles of lead from being blown throughout the room in the exhaust of the vacuum. You may request to borrow a HEPA vacuum by calling the Childhood Lead Poisoning Case Management Program at 240-777-3118.
4. Is my child's diet important?
Yes, a well-balanced diet is very important. Meals high in fats and oils are not good because they can help the body absorb lead. Eating foods that are rich in calcium and iron allow the body to absorb less lead. Eating foods with Vitamin C helps increase the amount of iron in the blood. Eating a variety of foods as part of a well-balanced diet helps a child grow up healthy and strong.
Get adequate levels of calcium, Iron, vitamin C and zinc, which can help block absorption and prevent lead poisoning.
5. How do you get lead posioning?
The major source of exposure for children is lead paint dust from deteriorated lead paint or from home renovation. Most childhood exposure occurs through children's normal hand-to-mouth activity after contact with a source of leaded dust. The most effective prevention of childhood lead poisoning is to reduce or eliminate being around lead.
Additional Information
No Additional Information at this time
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