How can lead poisoning be prevented?

Through nutrition, housekeeping and personal care.

  •  Nutrition - Serve foods high in iron, calcium and Vitamin C. Adequate intake of these nutrients minimizes lead absorption in children's bodies.
  •  Housekeeping - Teach and practice healthy home habits, such as hand-washing before eating and sleeping, shoe removal, washing children's toys or other chewable surfaces, purchasing lead-free mini-blinds, and wet mopping and drying floors and surfaces. Hire a certified professional to safely remove lead sources from a home. Make sure children and pregnant women do not stay inside a home when renovations are underway.
  •  Personal Care - Wash your hands and your children's hands frequently, especially before eating and sleeping.

Adapted from: The National Lead Information Center: 800-424-LEAD (5323). 

Show All Answers

1. What is lead poisoning?
2. What are the health effects of lead poisoning in children?
3. What are the symptoms of lead poisoning?
4. What are the main sources of lead?
5. How can lead poisoning be prevented?