DETROIT – The Flint water crisis has put lead poisoning in the headlines, but it has always been an issue, particularly in Detroit.
While lead poisoning can occur at any age, those at highest risk are infants and children because the most damage occurs in brains that are not fully grown and because they are small, children absorb lead more than adults.
Dr. Kanta Bhambhani, director of the lead clinic at Children's Hospital of Michigan, has been taking care of children with lead poisoning since 1983.
There are several different indications for testing but one is simply where you live.
Bhambhani said Detroit is considered a high-risk area and every child in the city should be tested up to 6-years of age at least once a year depending on their lead levels.
“Lead-based paint is still the most common cause of lead poisoning,” Bhambhani said.
Other indications for lead testing include:
- frequenting a home built before 1978 when lead paint regulations came into effect.
- having playmate or close relative with lead poisoning.
- living with an adult whose job or hobby involves lead.
- use any home remedies or cultural practices that may contain or use lead.
If elevated lead levels are discovered, Bhambhani told Local 4 management of the lead should begin with decreased exposure, improved nutrition and address all the late effects the children might develop. Bhambhani said problems don't show up until maybe the child is in middle school years.
Migrant populations and adoptees are also at risk since their previous exposures can't be determined easily.