Results of a lead decontamination program

An epidemiological survey was conducted in August 1991 to evaluate the impact of a public health program. The objective of the program was to decrease the level of exposure to lead of children who lived within 200 m of a lead- reclamation plant. In 1989, these children had a geometric mean blood lead level of 9.2 micrograms/dl (0.44 mu mol/l). Children who were 6 mo to 10 y of age (N = 101) participated in the survey. Demographic and behavioral characteristics of the children and their parents were ascertained by interviewers. Blood samples were taken by venipuncture. Geometric mean blood levels were calculated by age in 1991 and by residence in 1989. In 1991, the geometric mean blood lead level had decreased to 5.0 micrograms/dl (0.24 mu mol/l) in children. There was no difference in mean blood lead levels with respect to age or residence. From 1989 to 1991, a significant decrease in the proportion of children who engaged in hand-to-mouth activities was also observed. The lead-poisoning prevention program reached its main objective stated above. The success of this program was attributed to the coordinated actions of public agencies at both the provincial and local levels.