Lead levels in high-risk and low-risk young children in the Minneapolis-St Paul metropolitan area

Abstract

Objectives: To determine distribution of lead levels among children in a low-risk area; to validate a prescreening questionnaire; and to determine if universal lead screening is necessary in children in this area.

Design: Blood lead levels and questionnaires were obtained on eligible patients. Data were analyzed using stepwise regression analysis.

Setting: Community clinics and a health maintenance organization (HMO) in the Minneapolis-St Paul metropolitan area.

Patients: A total of 9603 children at well-child visits, age 6 months to 6 years at community clinics, and 6 months to 3 years at the HMO.

Outcome measures: Whole blood lead levels (WBLs) and questionnaires.

Results: The total sample rate of WBLs at >/=10 microg/dL was 12%, at >/=15 microg/dL was 31/2%, and at >/=20 microg/dL was 1.2%. At both 10 microg/dL and 15 microg/dL, the non-HMO group was at higher risk. For both groups, risk factors included living in the central cities, and living in housing built before 1950. For the non-HMO group a history of the child eating paint chips, or the child or a sibling having previous lead poisoning were also risk factors.

Conclusions: Not all children need lead screening. Children living in the central cities, or with the risk factors of living in housing built before 1950 or a previous history of lead poisoning should be screened.