Have a child who needs to be tested for lead in Durham? Here’s how to get one.
This story was updated to clarify which children qualify for free lead testing at the Durham County Health Department.
With “disturbing” lead levels being discovered in some Durham city parks, concerned parents might be interested in having their kids tested for lead exposure.
Here’s what you need to know about getting tested.
Free lead testing in Durham
There’s no safe level of lead in the blood and scientists have documented even low levels of lead causing children to struggle with learning and behavior.
The Durham County Health Department offers lead screenings, but not to individuals, Alecia Smith, the health department’s communications and public relations manager told The News & Observer in an email late Tuesday.
The health department “provides free testing to groups of children ages 6 months to 6 years at childcare facilities, elementary schools, and other community facilities, upon facilities’ request,” Smith wrote.
Here’s more about lead testing:
- It is a blood test, but only requires a finger prick.
- To schedule, contact Lakieta Sanders at 919-560-4842 or ldsanders@dconc.gov.
- Results take three to four weeks.
Is lead testing covered by insurance?
The CDC says most healthcare providers can test for lead in the blood.
“Many private insurance policies cover the cost of testing for lead in the blood. The cost of blood lead testing for children enrolled in Medicaid is covered by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services,” the agency reports.
What should I do if my child has lead in their blood?
If a child has lead in their blood, they should be assessed for learning difficulties and developmental problems.
Studies also suggest heart, immune system and hormone issues can be tied to lead poisoning.
The CDC says healthy foods can keep lead out of the body, especially those containing these nutrients:
- Calcium: In milk, yogurt, cheese and leafy green veggies
- Iron: In lean red meats, beans, peanut butter and cereal
- Vitamin C: In oranges, bell peppers and juice
Lead can also be harmful to adults, especially during pregnancy.
Have your tap water tested
Most children with lead poisoning get it from lead paint in their homes, according to the CDC. The U.S. banned lead paint in 1978.
Lead pipes were used until 1986, meaning drinking water can also be a concern, the EPA says.
The city of Durham offers free testing to those on city water whose homes were built before 1986.
- Request a free sample kit through Durham One Call at 919-560-1200.
Read more about prevention on the CDC website.
This story was originally published June 13, 2023 at 11:25 AM.
