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Blood lead levels in a continuity clinic population
S E Holmes1, J E Drutz, G J Buffone
1Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
Journal of Toxicology. Clinical Toxicology
|January 1, 1997
Summary
This study screened Houston children for lead toxicity, finding a 3.1% prevalence of elevated blood lead levels. The standard lead risk questionnaire missed 32% of cases, highlighting a need for improved screening methods.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Environmental Health
- Toxicology
- Public Health
Background:
- Lead toxicity is a recognized cause of childhood morbidity, particularly affecting the central nervous system in young children.
- While not a recognized public health issue in Houston, low-level lead exposure effects are possible in local children.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify asymptomatic lead toxicity cases in Houston children.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of the Centers for Disease Control's lead risk assessment questionnaire.
Main Methods:
- Quantitative blood lead levels were measured using Anodic Stripping Voltammetry.
- The lead risk assessment questionnaire was administered to children aged 9-72 months.
- 801 children were screened at a pediatric continuity clinic.
Main Results:
- 3.1% of children (25 out of 801) had elevated blood lead levels (10-19 µg/dL).
- No statistically significant differences were found based on age, sex, ethnicity, income, or zip code.
- Children in homes with pre-1960 peeling paint were more likely to have elevated lead levels (p = .045).
Conclusions:
- The prevalence of elevated blood lead in this urban, low-income Houston population was 3.1%, lower than CDC estimates.
- The lead risk questionnaire failed to identify 32% of children with elevated blood lead.
- Improved screening strategies, possibly including a revised questionnaire, are needed to accurately identify children at risk for lead toxicity.