Protect Pennsylvania's Children from Lead Poisoning

With National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week occurring this month (Oct. 19-25, 2025), it’s important to prioritize blood lead screening for young children.  

• Pennsylvania ranks among the worst in the nation – In 2019, the state had the second-highest number of children testing positive for lead poisoning. Of the top 10 states that had the highest rates of children with elevated blood lead levels, Pennsylvania ranked second-worst for childhood lead testing, with only 18.7% of children being screened, as reported by the Fight Crimes: Invest in Kids organization.
• Thousands of children are affected – In 2022, the Childhood Lead Surveillance Report found over 7,000 children under six years old in the state had elevated blood lead levels.      
• New exposure risks – The CDC reports that lead continues to be identified in everyday items like food, clothing, and toys.

As you know, lead exposure can have devastating, long-lasting effects on children, including slowed development, learning and behavior problems, and speech and hearing difficulties (More information can be found on the CDC website).

Take Action Today 

• Educate families: Discuss the importance of lead screening and the dangers of lead poisoning with all parents or guardians      
• Offer in-office screening: Provide convenient in-office blood lead screening to improve completion rates and ensure continuity of care.
• Test at every opportunity: Each office visit, including sick visits, can be used to perform blood lead testing based on guidelines. Children should be screened based on guidelines.
• Use CPT Code 83655: This code indicates that a blood lead test was performed.

Additional Resource

The PA Lead Information Line (800-440-LEAD) is available to the public
and professionals. Specialists can provide information and guidance on
preventing exposure, resources for lead removal, and consumer alerts.