Aug 27, 2008 9:03 am US/Pacific
S. Bay Lead Poisoning Prevention Plan Gets Funded
SAN JOSE (BCN) ―
With 6,000 children in Santa Clara County living in homes that could expose them to deteriorating lead base paint, the Board of Supervisors approved today almost $1.5 million in funding to the Childhood Poisoning Prevention Program.
The program, which was made in agreement with the California Department of Public Health, provides case management services, home visits, medical referrals, health education and outreach activities and surveillance efforts. The board promised to provide $1,451,914 to the program over a three-year period.
Since 1997 increasing numbers of children in Santa Clara County have been tested for lead, but many are still living in dangerous areas.
"Every child we protect from lead exposure equates to winning a battle against lead poisoning in our county," Supervisor Liz Kniss said.
Children living in poverty in pre-1950 housing have a higher possibility of being exposed to lead, however, there are other sources of lead contamination in the county, according to the board.
"We are finding out that newer cases of lead poisoning are also coming from candy sources," Public Health Officer Dr. Martin Fentersheib said. "Lead continues to be found in decorative pottery and can result in contamination when inappropriately utilized as a cooking or serving utensil."
Recent studies show that blood lead levels less than 100 micrograms per deciliter may inhibit normal neurological growth and development in children, leading to lower IQ and hearing deficits as well as speech and language handicaps, according to the board. Often, a child with lead poisoning may have symptoms that may be attributed to other illnesses such as an upset stomach, lethargy or a headache.
Residents who suspect they or their children have lead poisoning should request a blood lead test from their doctors. Uninsured residents may have their children tested for free by calling the Department of Public Health at (408) 494-7410.
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