Lesson 7: Summary & Resources

The most important step in preventing childhood lead poisoning is to prevent lead exposure before it occurs. Lead poisoning is caused by inhaling or ingesting lead from the environment. Young children are at the highest risk of lead poisoning because their bodies are rapidly developing and absorb more lead. Behaviors like playing on the ground or putting their hands and other objects in their mouth also puts children at higher risk. 

No amount of lead exposure is considered safe for young children. Exposure to lead, even at low levels, can seriously harm a child’s health and brain development, causing slowed growth, lower IQ, and problems with learning and behavior. Most children do not look or act sick at the time of lead exposure. Development and behavioral problems may not show up until years later when the damage has become severe and opportunities for early childhood interventions have diminished. Primary prevention, early detection and early intervention in childhood lead poisoning cases are three ways to positively shape a child’s future. Preventing lead exposure from occurring is the best way to keep our keiki safe. When that fails, blood lead testing and developmental screenings are critical in catching lead exposure in its early stages before health, learning, and behavioral problems arise. Once lead exposure has been determined, early intervention should be provided to prevent developmental delays and promote school readiness. Interventions include promoting parent-child interaction and referral to and enrollment in early childhood development and education programs.

To complete the course and earn your certificate, complete the course post-survey.