This program provides services in the following areas:

• Performs inspections of homes of lead poisoned children to identify lead hazards.

• Works with the property owners of homes identified with lead hazards on reducing the risk of lead exposure in the home.
• Provides information to the public regarding lead hazards and methods on reducing these hazards.

The Environmental Health Division and the Community Health Services Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program of the Cayuga County Department of Health work together in efforts to reduce lead poisoning.

Lead is a heavy metal. It was used in many materials and products before the risk to young children was known. Certain products such as paints used in older houses before 1978, lead solder used in plumbing, and leaded gasoline were used before their harmful health effects were recognized. Although laws now prevent lead from being used in many products, there can still be lead hazards in and around many homes. Lead can get into the air, water, food, soil, and even dust and then can be breathed or swallowed leading to serious health problems, especially for young children.
 

Lead is a toxin (poison) that can harm young children. Children 6 years old and under are most at risk because their bodies are still developing. A young children's exposure to lead can cause learning and behavioral problems and possibly damage their brains, kidneys, and other organs.
 

Lead enters the body when children breathe lead dust or lead fumes, or swallow something with lead in it. Young children often put things in their mouth creating a way for lead paint chips or lead dust to enter the body. The main way most young children are exposed to harmful levels of lead is through contact with lead contaminated paint and dust.

Less often, water is contaminated when it flows through lead pipes or brass fixtures, or food is contaminated by contact with lead-glazed ceramic dishes. Certain ethnic spices, foods and cosmetics, and children's jewelry also have lead. In certain jobs and hobbies, adults may work with leaded materials and can possibly expose their child to lead if proper cleaning is not done.
 

• Community Health Services Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program
• Get Ahead of Lead!  Get the Lead Out of Drinking Water
• If You Have Children, Get Ahead of Lead
• Sources of Lead
• The Trouble With Lead: Keeping Your Home and Family Safe
• True/False Questions on Lead
• What Home Owner's Need to Know About Removing Lead-Based Paint
• US Environmental Protection Agency - Lead in Paint, Dust, and Soil

If you have any questions regarding Lead Poisoning you may contact Cayuga County Community Health Services (315) 253-1560, the Environmental Health Division at (315) 253-1405, or you may email your questions to cchealth@dfa.state.ny.us.