Lead is a metal that is found in the environment and many consumer products.  It can be toxic (poisonous) to people and animals.

While lead paint in homes built before 1978 continues to be the most common source of lead exposure, there are many other lead sources.  Those sources include:

No amount of lead is safe for the body.  For more information on these sources, see the CDC link below. 
 
https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/lead/prevention/sources.htm

Lead poisoning occurs when lead gets into the body.  Lead dust may be inhaled or breathed   in or a person may eat or drink something contaminated by lead.

Lead poisoning may cause

In Connecticut, children between the ages of 9 months and 35 months must be tested for lead poisoning each year.  Most healthcare providers include this simple blood test at the 12 month and 24 month check-up.  The test is not optional as it is the law and is covered by insurance, so there is no fee for the parent to pay. 
 
Check out this video to learn why it is important to protect young children from lead exposure and the importance of blood lead testing.

The best approach is prevention!  However, if a child is determined to have lead poisoning and the level is high, medication will be used to reduce the amount of lead in the body.  The medication may be administered by mouth or by injection depending on the blood lead level and how the child responds to the medicine.
 
It is important to finish all of the medication to reduce the blood lead level.  Chelation medicines draw the lead out of the body through the kidneys and into the urine or pee.  It is important for persons who are taking chelation medication to drink plenty of liquids to help get rid of the lead.

See this link for more information about Lead Poisoning and Chelation Therapy.  It includes Treatment and Prevention, Tips for Giving Medication, Side Effects of the Medication, Signs of an Allergic Reaction, Good Nutrition, Iron Supplements and Follow-up Care. 

https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/family-resources-education/health-wellness-and-safety-resources/helping-hands/lead-poisoning-chelation-therapy

All children are required to be tested for lead poisoning between the ages of 9 months and 35 months.  This test is often included at well-child appointments at 12 months and 24 months.  Lead testing is required to be covered by insurance.
 
If your child does not have insurance, call Community Health Services at 860-297-8600.  Community Health Services is a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) and offers free or low-cost care based on individual circumstances.