Over the last few months, we have watched on the news about the recalls of applesauce with possible lead issues. It’s concerning, as parents, that we might feed our kids something that could cause any health issues.
Monitoring these recalls on food products is one way to stay vigilant to keep safe, but what else can we do to prevent exposure to lead?
Lead is a naturally occurring metal in Missouri. It can be ingested in food, the water we drink, and also inhaled as dust particles. The exposure can be from a work place or even a home. Older homes with chipping paint can be an easy-to-spot risk, but toys, dirt and even drinking water are other sources.
Children are at the greatest risk. It takes smaller amounts of lead to cause problems in children, and they are more apt to put items — or hands — in their mouths.
Why is it important to prevent lead exposure? The harmful effects of even small amounts can cause learning disabilities, slow growth and development, and other concerns.
Some ways to stay on top of this are through prevention: If living an an older home, make sure to reduce dust by wet-cleaning, watch for chipping paint and remodel in a safe manner to reduce exposure.
Talk to your health care provider about concerns or a need for testing. Lead testing and lead education are also part of many services we offer at Howell County Health Department.
