• Lead is a natural element and neurotoxin - a poison that destroys nerve tissue - and can cause permanent brain damage and/or developmental delays. • There’s no safe level of exposure to lead. • Lead exposure can have lifelong consequences that cost society billions nationwide. • Lead was common in household products, especially paint until 1978.

Lead poisoning occurs when lead builds up in the body over time, causing serious health problems. It can affect many body systems, especially in young children, including the brain, nervous system, kidneys, and heart. There is no cure—only management. Preventing exposure is critical. Medical treatment, like chelation therapy, may be necessary at very high blood lead levels.

Even small amounts of lead can cause permanent damage. It affects brain development, behavior, learning, speech, hearing, and overall growth. It may lead to decreased academic performance, attention disorders, and anxiety. There is no safe blood lead level in children.

Contact your health care provider to schedule a blood lead test. In New York, testing is required by law at ages 1 and 2, and may be needed at other times based on risk factors. If exposure is confirmed, your provider can guide the next steps, including developmental support and environmental investigation.

If your child has elevated blood lead levels, your health care provider may recommend: Developmental evaluations Nutritional guidance (especially iron and calcium) Referrals to specialists or early intervention programs Stopping exposure and ongoing monitoring are essential to minimize long-term impacts.

Lead hazard removal should be done safely to avoid creating more contamination. Homeowners should hire certified lead professionals for renovations, repairs, or painting in homes built before 1978. These professionals follow lead-safe work practices to prevent spreading lead dust. Do-it-yourself methods like dry scraping, sanding, or using heat guns can be very dangerous and are not recommended. If you're a renter, report peeling paint or damaged surfaces to your landlord immediately. Funding is available to help identify and address lead and other safety hazards—at no cost for those who qualify! Learn more about Lead-Safe Utica.

Wash children's hands and toys frequently Wet-mop floors and clean dusty surfaces with damp cloths Use only cold tap water for drinking and baby formula (let it run first) Remove shoes before entering the home Wash work clothes separately if household members work in construction or related jobs Repair peeling paint safely—report it to landlords or fix it using lead-safe methods

Homes built before 1978 often contain lead-based paint, even if it’s been painted over with newer layers. The most common danger comes not just from the paint itself, but from the lead dust that forms when this paint chips, peels, or is disturbed. Lead dust can settle on surfaces and objects that children frequently touch or put in their mouths, making it especially dangerous. Common danger spots include: Windows and windowsills – friction from opening and closing windows grinds painted surfaces, creating dust Doors and door frames – repeated use causes paint to rub off and chip Stairs, railings, and banisters – high-touch surfaces where lead dust can accumulate and spread Porches and painted floors – exposed to weather and wear, increasing risk of deterioration Even small amounts of this dust can be toxic (as little as a sugar packet amount), especially for young children who crawl, play, and explore these areas. Regular cleaning with damp cloths or mops can help reduce dust, but permanent removal or repair should be done by certified professionals using lead-safe methods. Examples of other sources of lead that can enter your home besides lead paint include traces of lead from a job or hobby, contaminated soil, imported toys, spices or cookware, makeup, costume jewelry, fishing tackle, and pottery.

A lead risk assessment can identify hazards such as peeling paint, dust, and lead-contaminated soil. Contact a certified professional or HomeOwnershipCenter at 315-724-4197 for help.

• Adults are not routinely tested unless they have occupational or environmental risk factors. • Older children who are recent immigrants, refugees, or adoptees should be tested. • Pregnant women should also talk to their provider, as lead can harm the unborn child.

Contact your health care provider or health insurance company to confirm costs.

Your health care provider can help you, or you can contact a local clinic or lab. Here’s a list of local facilities that may be able to assist you: Labcorp – 315-797-1082 Mohawk Valley Health System (MVHS) – 315-917-8199 Mosaic Health – 315-793-7600 Quest Diagnostics – 315-735-5636 Sister Rose Vincent Family Medicine Center – 315-798-1149 Slocum Dickson Medical Group – 315-798-1469 Upstate Family Health Center – 315-624-9470

Speak with your child’s health care provider about getting a simple blood test.

Children under age 6 are at highest risk due to their rapid development and higher absorption rates. Testing is the only way to know if a child has been exposed to lead. In New York State, testing is required at ages 1 and 2.