Learn How to Detect and Prevent Lead Poisoning in Children

Sadly, innocent children get exposed to lead in Cedar Rapids and throughout this nation even before they are born. A child may have already absorbed lead during pregnancy if the mother was exposed. The mom may not have even know she was exposed to lead because all it takes to absorb lead into the body is to breath materials that contain lead, skin contact by touching lead, and ingesting food or drinks that contain lead.

Unfortunately most adults do not know that they have come in contact with lead or ingested lead-contaminated products. Because this heavy metal can be exposed in the form of dust or fumes, it can be transferred home on a person's hair, clothes and even skin. It can stay in the car or home, exposing one's family and children to this toxic metal.

Adults who are exposed to lead need to take it seriously; however, if children are exposed to lead, it is an extremely critical issue and could have long-lasting affects to their bodies. Because a child's brain and nervous system are not fully developed, high lead levels can cause harmful affects including: learning disabilities, behavior problems, speech delay, hearing loss, hyperactivity, attention deficit disorder, stunt in growth and cognitive damage, among others.

Even though the law in before entering kindergarten, it would be wise Iowa requires children to get tested for lead poisoningto get children tested earlier. In order to protect your family from experiencing lead poisoning in Cedar Rapids, you should:

• Have your child tested for lead poisoning

• Have your home checked for lead (lead paint)

• Keep your child's hands and toys as clean as possible

• Dust surfaces in the house such as windowsills

• Keep floors clean and dust off shoes before entering the house

Children living in homes built before 1970 have a higher risk of being exposed to lead poisoning because of the likelihood of lead based paint in the home. This is also true for children who attend day care at a school or someone's house that was built before 1970. Have your child tested for lead poisoning as soon as possible.

If your child has suffered lead poisoning, contact an experienced Iowa child lead poisoning attorney to get your legal questions answered. The law offices of Brady & O'Shea will discuss your options, give you sound advice, and inform you of your next steps to take. Call the Cedar Rapids lead poisoning attorneys at Brady & O'Shea today at (319) 866-9277 for a free legal evaluation.