Free Screenings for Lead Poisoning Offered

Lead Poisoning, Still a Public Health Problem

Lead poisoning has made national headlines again with the severe public health crisis in areas like Flint, Michigan.

Health experts in the Northland are hoping local children are safe from the dangers of lead.

The American Lung Association has teamed up with some local non-profits for free lead testing events for children and pregnant adults.

The free events, like the one held Tuesday at Myers-Wilkins Elementary in Duluth, are part of an effort to spread awareness on the harm that can come from even a little bit of lead in our homes.

Experts at the event say the problem of lead poisoning isn’t as bad as it was decades ago, but it’s still relevant to many people.

“The levels have gone down, decreased,” says Rachelle Menanteau Peleska, the Director of Education and Outreach with Sustainable Resources Center. “However we still have older homes that were built before 1978, and we still see some chipping and peeling paint there. “

Menanteau Peleska says the effects of lead poisoning are very harmful, especially to children.

“Lead poisoning affects the nervous system,” she said. “While kids are still developing and making those connections and those synapses in their brains, lead poisoning will disrupt that.”

Families are encouraged to look into free lead scans for their homes and grant funds that could help remove lead hazards.