Between 1976 and 1994, the prevalence of BLLs greater than 20 micrograms per deciliter in children, the point at which they may be at greater risk for harm, dropped from 25 percent to less than 1 percent. Rather, it is a serious problem afflicting some populations, namely children, living in older, dilapidated housing in which lead-based paint is peeling or chipping. Just as the mere existence of lead in the human body does not necessarily signal danger, the mere presence of lead-based paint in a home, if intact and in good condition, is not harmful. In fact, disrupting intact paint, which is sometimes advocated, can actually increase children's exposure to lead dust and ultimately do more harm than good. This is an important consideration when establishing lead abatement policies.
Parents play an important role in protecting their children from lead.
Parents and other caretakers should monitor children's play activities to prevent ingestion of dirt. Parents should encourage their children to practice good hygiene, particularly washing hands before eating. Families who live in older homes with outdated plumbing should allow tap water to run for 30 seconds, or until the water is cool, before using it. Families living in homes built before 1960 with peeling or flaking paint should seek expert advice to find out if the paint contains lead. We hope that as events unfold, the authorities will keep in mind the facts about lead, which will help them put health claims into proper perspective.