In 2021, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lowered the blood lead reference value (BLRV) to 3.5 μg/dL. The BLRV is not a health standard but a tool to identify children with blood lead levels (BLLs) higher than most of their peers. National estimates suggest that more than 500,000 children ages 1–5 have BLLs above this threshold. Locally, data from the Southern Nevada Health District show that about one in four children in Clark County have a detectable BLL.

There is no safe level of lead in the body. Children are especially vulnerable due to their developing bodies and behaviors. Even low levels of exposure can cause permanent harm to the brain, leading to reduced IQ, learning difficulties, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Higher exposures can cause headaches, gastrointestinal issues, hearing problems, anemia, seizures, coma, and even death.

The signs of lead exposure are not always visible, and the damage can be irreversible. The only way to know if a child has been exposed is through a blood lead test. Routine testing by health care providers is essential to ensure early intervention and protect children’s health.

Resources

• American Academy of Pediatrics: Key Points about Lead
• Update of the Blood Lead Reference Value – United States, 2021
• CDC Recommended Actions Based on Blood Lead Level
• Nevada Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program