To inform Marylanders about the number one preventable environmental health threat to children, Governor Parris N. Glendening has proclaimed Monday, June 14 to Sunday, June 20, as Lead Poisoning Prevention Week in Maryland. Test Your Child, Check Your Home. Screening with a blood test for lead is an important way to find out if a child is exposed or poisoned. Symptoms don't often appear until the poisoning is very severe and even low lead levels in the blood can affect a child's ability to learn. The best weapon that we have to combat this threat is public awareness.
Lead poisoning is caused primarily by deteriorating lead-based paint, which produces chips and dust.
Adults and pets also are susceptible. Every family can play an active role in preventing childhood lead poisoning by having their children's blood tested, and checking their homes for deteriorating paint. Rental property owners who comply with Maryland's Reduction of Lead Risk in Housing law contribute significantly to the prevention of childhood lead poisoning. Compliance means that the property is registered with MDE, tenants are provided an educational notice, and paint maintenance is performed before new tenants move in. Owners who are in compliance with the law are eligible for a cap on their liability for lead poisoning.