In Port Pirie, blood lead
monitoring involves a simple prick of the finger. This capillary blood sample is then
analysed to determine lead concentration. Lead concentration is measured in µg/dl
(micrograms per decilitre).
Why
get tested?
Blood lead monitoring is VERY IMPORTANT. Any alteration
in blood lead levels can indicate a change in exposure and show that steps are needed to
identify and remove (or at least reduce) the lead source.
Regular low levels should not be interpreted as a sign that testing is no longer necessary
- it only indicates that CURRENT levels of lead in the body are low!
Who should be tested?
- PREGNANT WOMEN: should be tested as soon as their
pregnancy is confirmed. A mother's blood may affect the development of the unborn child.
- YOUNG CHILDREN: should be tested regularly until 5 years
of age.
- NEW RESIDENTS IN PORT PIRIE: should be tested if they are
pregnant or under the age of 5, as soon as they move to the city. This establishes a base
line, and permits future exposure to be monitored.
- HOME/GARDEN RENOVATORS: anyone planning major renovations
should seek advice from the EHC prior to commencing work. Where appropriate, blood lead
level tests may be recommended for children living in the home.
How does blood lead effect us?
- Lead is a poisonous substance, which serves no use at all
in the body.
- From prebirth through infancy, the developing brain is
most at risk from the effects of moderate exposure to lead.
- Children absorb up to 50% of the lead which enters their
bodies, compared to adults who absorb 8 - 10%.
- Some of the daily intake can be passed out of the body,
however when the daily intake becomes excessive, elevated blood lead levels can occur.
Lead can be inhaled or swallowed.
The
main sources of lead are:
- dust
-
paint
-
soil
-
rainwater
Where can a blood lead test be
done?
At the Environmental Health Centre - phone to make an
appointment.
Remember . . .
- Pregnant women living in Port Pirie should have a blood
lead test as soon as their pregnancy is confirmed.
- All children under 5 years of age should have regular
blood lead tests.
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Related
links
within this site
Pt Pirie
Newsletter
The Port Pirie Lead Implementation Program Future Focus and
Directions 05-06
Pt Pirie Environmental Health
Centre home page
Pt Pirie Environmental Health
Centre services
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