Recommendations from the Childhood Blood Lead Study in Philadelphia, PA

No safe blood lead level in children has been identified. Even low levels of lead in blood have been shown to affect IQ, ability to pay attention, and academic achievement. And the effects of lead exposure cannot be corrected.

Children living in the investigation area near the former John T. Lewis facility are more likely to have blood lead levels equal or above most children’s levels. All children who live in and around the study area in Philadelphia should be tested for blood lead.

The Philadelphia Department of Public Health recommends all children should be screened for lead at ages 12 and 24 months or at 36-72 months if there is no proof of prior of screening. Please check with your health provider about any past lead testing results for your child. Information about the City of Philadelphia’s efforts to reduce lead exposures can be found in the 2017 final report of the Philadelphia Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Advisory Group found at: http://www.phila.gov/healTh/pdfs/Lead%20Advisory%20Group%20Report.pdfCdc-pdfExternal.

Information on steps parents and caregivers can take to have a healthy, safe home is available at http://www.phila.gov/health/childhoodlead/ParentsCaregivers.htmlExternal.

We understand that families are concerned about lead and dust in the community. The City of Philadelphia has regulations aiming to limit the public’s exposure to dust generated during construction and demolition activities.

If you believe a demolition contractor is not following these regulations, or if you have any concerns or complaints about dust, call the Department of Public Health’s Air Management Services at 215-685-7580 or 311.