Wake County is taking a stand against childhood lead exposure with a new campaign that's putting education at the forefront of lead poisoning prevention. With many homes and common items posing hidden risks, the campaign’s focus is empowering parents with essential knowledge to safeguard their environments and their children's health. “Wake County is committed to safeguarding children from lead exposure, and education is one of our most powerful tools,” Wake County Commissioner Cheryl Stallings stated in an announcement.
Last year, the Wake County Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention program received 75 referrals related to lead exposure concerns from pediatric health professionals. Of these, 18 were confirmed cases of lead poisoning, while 53 involved children exhibiting elevated blood lead levels, as per the county's data. Three referrals were prenatal, hinting at a possible lead exposure in pregnant individuals. The rest pertained to childcare establishments and various residential locations.
Families who consent to home lead investigations, prompted by cases of confirmed lead poisoning or raised blood lead levels, are provided with safety kits. These kits aim to mitigate lead exposure and open discussions on lead-safe conduct within the home. However, during 2024, 15 households with children diagnosed with elevated blood lead levels declined these voluntary investigations. In cases where lead hazards were pinpointed, property owners shouldered the responsibility to rectify them, but if non-permanent solutions were chosen, inspectors would verify annually that those hazards remained contained. "There is no cost for this service, and our goal is to protect children, not penalize families,” James R. Smith, Environmental Health Program Manager, told Wake County News.
Lead poisoning is especially harmful to children under six due to their increased absorbing rates for lead and the subsequent developmental and behavioral consequences even at low levels of lead in blood. Various sources contribute to lead exposure, such as deteriorating paint in pre-1978 constructions, imported cultural products, antiquated plumbing, and even some toys and jewelry. Wake County has been proactive in identifying such threats, not only in homes but in the very earth surrounding older structures and within the items brought into them.
To help keep children safe from harm, Wake County suggests several pragmatic measures parents can implement: Limit contact with peeling paint, clean hands and toys often, opt for cold over hot tap water, restrict access to potentially lead-containing objects, avoid untested imported spices, and seek blood lead testing through a healthcare provider. These recommendations, along with the educational campaign’s resources, are available in English, Spanish, and other languages to address cultural and linguistic barriers in the community. “Every child deserves a safe, healthy home,” said Smith, reinforcing the county's commitment to universal child safety.
