The general health of community residents should be an utmost concern for its governing officials and agencies. That means water, air and soil free of toxins and pollutants, for example.
When actions to help in that regard can be taken, they should be.
So, the fact that local health officials are increasing lead testing efforts in children is appreciated.
The Bartholomew County Health Department is using a $10,000 grant from the state health department to increase the screening of children who could be at risk for lead poisoning.
Lead poisoning is a valid concern. The toxic metal has been linked to developmental difficulties and neurological damage. Unborn babies and children under age 6 are the most at risk.
It’s also a concern for those who live in older homes that may have been painted with lead-based paint, or constructed with lead pipes for the plumbing components. Lead that seeps into the soil and gets into drinking water can potentially make a person ill.
Local health officials are focusing their efforts on the Lincoln-Central neighborhood, an area of the city with older homes and higher child poverty rates, factors that increase the risk for lead poisoning.
They’re also ramping up awareness efforts. The local health department has made presentations to five doctor’s offices and distributed flyers to apartments located near schools. Also, an information session was conducted recently at the Columbus Learning Center.
Those who think they might be at risk for lead poisoning should do their part and contact the local health department to get more information.
The local health department is doing its part to help those who are more vulnerable to exposure, because lives matter.
