Exposure to lead is still one of the most significant and widespread environmental hazards for children. Although we have made significant strides in decreasing the prevalence of lead toxicity in children, there are still many products other than lead based paint that continue to expose our children to lead.

This exposure can lead to long-term neurological damage that may be associated with learning, behavior problems and decreased intelligence.

Toddlers are more vulnerable to environmental chemicals such as lead for a number of reasons. For example, their normal hand to mouth behavior especially during teething, as well as their time spent on the floor as they learn to crawl puts them at greater risk.  Furthermore, they are at greater risk due to a fragile and developing neurological system which allows lead to permeate the brain.

The main source of this exposure continues to be from lead based paint and contaminated lead dust in homes built prior to 1978. It was widely reported in 2007 that significant lead levels were found in imported goods and products such as toys.  These products included painted trains, dolls, doll houses, lunch boxes, bibs, back pack car seats, costume jewelry, etc.

In 2008, the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act was passed which requires mandatory third-party safety testing on all toys and products marketed to children less than 12 years of age.  This current legislation has resulted in safety improvements; however, parents should consider the following precautions to minimize lead exposure

• Avoid purchasing antique and poorly labeled toys.
• Read recall notices and do not purchase toys that have been recalled.
• Check old toys at home to determine if they meet acceptable lead level standards. This can be done by visiting the web site (www.cpsc.gov)
• Follow age recommendations listed on labels. The age recommendation is based on safety concerns related to the developmental stage of the child.
• Do not allow children to play with adult costume jewelry. The CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) does not regulate lead level in jewelry sold to adults.

Commercial lead test kits are not recommended for testing on toys because it may give false negative results.

More importantly, if there are any concerns about lead exposure, alert your child’s Pediatrician. A simple blood test can be performed to determine the present of lead.