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Spatial Analysis and Lead-Risk Assessment of Philadelphia, USA
H Caballero-Gómez1,2, H K White1, M J O'Shea3
1Department of Chemistry Haverford College Haverford PA USA.
Geohealth
|March 28, 2022
Summary
Childhood lead poisoning persists in Philadelphia despite public health efforts. Lead paint in homes and property demolitions are key risk factors, necessitating targeted prevention in high-risk neighborhoods.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Urban Health
- Pediatric Public Health
Background:
- Childhood lead poisoning remains a significant public health concern in major U.S. cities.
- Elevated blood lead levels in children are linked to decreased academic achievement and IQ, impacting communities.
- Philadelphia continues to identify children with elevated blood lead levels despite ongoing prevention efforts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the spatial distribution of potential lead sources in relation to childhood blood lead levels in Philadelphia.
- To identify primary lead risk factors contributing to elevated blood lead levels in children.
- To develop a lead risk assessment model for identifying high-risk neighborhoods and soil sampling sites.
Main Methods:
- Spatial analysis of housing with lead paint (pre-1978), demolitions, and historic smelters.
- Correlation analysis between lead sources and childhood blood lead level data in West and North Philadelphia.
- Census tract-level risk assessment incorporating lead paint, housing code violations, demolitions, and owner-occupied units.
Main Results:
- The presence of lead paint in homes and the number of demolitions showed the highest correlation with elevated blood lead levels.
- A lead risk assessment model was developed using identified lead risk factors.
- Specific census tracts (175 and 172) were identified as high-risk areas for lead exposure.
Conclusions:
- Lead paint in housing and property demolitions are significant contributors to childhood lead exposure in Philadelphia.
- The developed lead risk assessment model can guide targeted soil sampling and prevention initiatives.
- Prioritizing lead poisoning prevention efforts in identified high-risk census tracts is crucial for mitigating exposure.
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