Creating a Community Resource for Neuropsychological Assessments After a Lead Exposure: Process and Findings
Diana K Haggerty1,2, Shuting Zheng3, Lauren M Tompkins4
1Charles Stewart Mott Department of Public Health, https://ror.org/05hs6h993Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, Flint, MI, USA.
Disaster Medicine and Public Health Preparedness
|September 30, 2025
Summary
The Flint water crisis impacted children
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Neuroscience
- Pediatrics
Background:
- The Flint water crisis involved widespread lead exposure in children.
- Neuropsychological deficits are a significant concern following lead exposure.
- The Center for Children's Integrated Services Assessment Center (CISAC) was established to address these needs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the implementation and functioning of the CISAC.
- To report clinical diagnoses for the initial cohort of children assessed.
- To understand the neuropsychological impact of lead exposure and community trauma.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional, descriptive analysis of 376 children (ages 3-18) receiving neurodevelopmental assessments.
- Broad eligibility criteria allowed referrals from multiple sources.
- Comprehensive neuropsychological assessments were conducted.
Main Results:
- Approximately 60% of children were diagnosed with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
- 70% of children received diagnoses for two or more conditions.
- 96.8% of children were recommended for ongoing educational, medical, or mental health services.
Conclusions:
- The CISAC effectively identified significant neuropsychological conditions in children exposed to lead.
- Lead exposure and community-wide trauma have profound implications for child development.
- The CISAC provides essential longitudinal care, secondary prevention, and trauma-informed treatment.
