Due to industrialization, lead is everywhere in our environment and has affected New Jersey's children. There are over 625,000 children under age six at risk. Children are particularly susceptible to the toxic neurobehavioral effect of lead poisoning because of their rapid physiological development. The growing fetus, through trans placental lead exposure, is also at risk.
Lead poisoning is one of the most preventable pediatric health problems in New Jersey.
Education of families and risk assessment is very important. Early screening via blood test is essential. Nurses can be instrumental in this prevention effort, while working in maternal-child, pediatric, community health, school and public health settings. Risk assessment to be done at every well child visit for all children. Standard education about lead poisoning for families by all pediatric health care providers.