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Explainer: How The State Monitors A Child Who Has Elevated Blood Lead Levels

Kimberly Paynter
/
WHYY

 

In Pennsylvania, only 26 percent of children between the ages of one and two are tested for lead. For children under age seven, it's only 14 percent.

That's despite the fact that lead can cause children permanent learning disabilities, behavioral problems, and drops in IQ, scientists say.

The state is considering legislation that would mandate lead testing for all children of a certain age.

But in the meantime, what happens when a child is tested and has elevated blood lead levels? What does the state do?

Read the full version of this reportat Keystone Crossroads' websiteKeystone Crossroads is a new statewide public media initiative reporting on the challenges facing Pennsylvania's cities. WPSU is a participating station.

 

 

Marielle Segarra was WHYY's Keystone Crossroads reporter. She reported for the multi-station partnership on urban policy, crumbling infrastructure and how distressed Pennsylvania cities are bouncing back. As a freelance radio reporter, her stories have also aired on Latino USA, WNYC, WBUR and other NPR member stations.