Childhood lead poisoning is one of the most common preventable health problems in the United States. Symptoms are like other illnesses and often misdiagnosed.

Signs and symptoms include:

• Headaches
• Fatigue
  
• Hyperactivity
  
• Poor appetite
  
• Anemia
  
• Vomiting

Without proper treatment, lead poisoning can cause kidney damage, brain damage and learning disabilities. Children should be routinely tested for lead poisoning at age 1 and 2 years and annually until age 6, if at high risk.

Visit these websites for additional information on lead and prevention:

• Prevention and Treatment | Lead Poisoning | Health & Senior Services (mo.gov)
• Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Johnson County Community Health Services offers free lead testing at our clinic. For more information or to schedule testing, please call JCCHS Public Health at 660-747-6121 ext. 281 / 253.