'Safe' Lead Levels Lower IQ in Children, Study Finds

The major sources of lead exposure among children are lead-based paint and lead-contaminated dust found in deteriorating buildings. Other sources of lead poisoning are related to:

* Hobbies (making stained-glass windows).

* Work (recycling or making automobile batteries).

* Drinking water (lead pipes, solder, brass fixtures, valves).

* Home health remedies (arzacon and greta, which are used for upset stomach or indigestion; pay-loo-ah, which is used for rash or fever).

What the public and parents can do to reduce blood lead levels:

* Ask a doctor to test your child.

* Talk to your state or local health department about testing paint and dust from your home if you live in a pre-1978 dwelling.

* Damp-mop floors, damp-wipe surfaces and frequently wash a child's hands, pacifiers and toys.

* Use cold water from the tap for drinking and cooking.

For more information: CDC Web site at www.cdc.gov/nceh/lead/

lead.htm, or the National Lead Information Center at 800-424-LEAD.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Los Angeles Times