Children at Risk

To diagnose lead poisoning, doctors test a small sample of blood taken from a finger prick or vein. Lead present in blood is measured in micrograms per deciliter (abbreviated μg/dL, or mcg/dL). The CDC reference levels of 5 and 10 μg/dL are regularly used thresholds of exposure capable of triggering government intervention. However, it is crucial to remember that any level above zero is potentially unsafe and can cause severe, permanent damage in young children.

Under Maryland's updated clinical requirements for child blood lead testing (implemented in March of 2016), all children born on or after January 1, 2015 are considered at-risk for lead exposure, and must be tested for lead at ages 12 and 24 months. These new requirements, which apply to the entire state of Maryland, speak to the pervasive and unpredictable nature of lead contamination: no matter where a young child lives, there is real danger that he or she will come into contact with enough lead to cause serious harm. In Baltimore City and much of Baltimore County, children born before January 1, 2015 are also considered at-risk and should, according to state guidelines in-place since 2004, receive blood lead testing every twelve months until the age of six.

SOURCE: MARYLAND DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH, Lead Targeting: At Risk Zip Codes

Baltimore City also mandates lead testing and reporting through Subtitle 6, Parts I-II of the City Health Code. However, both city and state lack the capacity to ensure that every at-risk child receives all necessary blood lead testing. For this reason, it remains critical that parents and guardians take the initiative to inquire about lead testing for children who may have been exposed to lead hazards.

Levy Konigsberg specializes in advocating for children harmed by exposure to lead. We understand the significant and unique damages suffered by lead poisoning victims and have used our expertise to recover over $100 million for lead poisoned children across the country. If you wish to consult with one of our attorneys, please contact us at 1-800-475-2881 or through the form on this website