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Childhood blood lead surveillance data in Alabama

What do blood lead levels look like for children in Alabama?

Last verified from EPA SDWIS: 2026-04-14
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Childhood Blood Lead Surveillance Data — Alabama

Why blood lead testing matters

Blood lead level (BLL) testing is how we know if children in Alabama have been exposed to lead. Even low levels can affect brain development, learning, and behavior. The CDC recommends universal screening—testing all children—rather than waiting for symptoms.

Alabama tracks childhood blood lead data through its pediatric blood lead surveillance program, which monitors how many children have elevated levels (5 micrograms per deciliter or higher, the CDC's reference value).

Alabama's screening coverage

Medicaid covers blood lead testing for all enrolled children at 12 months and 24 months of age, and can cover testing up to age 6. However, not all children are tested, and screening rates vary significantly by county. Counties with older housing stock, lower household income, and higher rates of poverty typically see higher percentages of children with elevated blood lead levels.

The CDC publishes county-level data on the percentage of tested children with elevated BLLs. These numbers help identify where lead exposure risk is highest—whether from drinking water, paint, soil, or other sources.

How to request Alabama's data

Contact the Alabama Department of Public Health, Office of Lead Poisoning Prevention for:

  • Screening rates and results by county
  • Trends over time
  • Information about free or low-cost testing programs

You can also request data from your county health department, which may have local information and can connect you to screening services.

What the data tells you

If your county reports a higher percentage of children with elevated BLLs, it doesn't mean your child is affected—but it's a signal to get your child tested and to investigate lead sources in your home, including drinking water. If your water utility participates in Lead Sampling or has a known lead service line inventory, check that information alongside health data.

Next steps for residents

  • Get your child tested. Contact your pediatrician or local health department to schedule a blood lead test if your child hasn't been screened.
  • Request county and state data. Ask the Alabama Department of Public Health for surveillance results in your area.
  • Check your water system. Find your utility on LeadPipeLookup to learn about lead service lines and water testing in your system.
  • Talk to your doctor. If results show elevated levels, your pediatrician can help you identify exposure sources and next steps.

Related topics in Alabama

Common questions

What is considered an elevated blood lead level in Alabama?

The CDC's current reference value is 5 micrograms per deciliter (µg/dL). Levels at or above this indicate a child has been exposed to more lead than is typical and should be investigated. Your pediatrician can discuss what this means for your child.

Does Alabama test all children for lead?

Medicaid covers testing for enrolled children at 12 and 24 months of age, and up to age 6. However, not all Alabama children are automatically tested. Talk to your child's doctor about getting a test, especially if you live in a home built before 1978 or have concerns about lead exposure.

Can lead come from drinking water in Alabama?

Yes, lead can enter drinking water through corroded service lines and plumbing. Check your water utility's lead service line inventory on LeadPipeLookup to see if you may be affected, and ask your utility about water testing programs.

How do I find blood lead surveillance data for my county?

Contact the Alabama Department of Public Health, Office of Lead Poisoning Prevention, or your local county health department. The CDC also publishes county-level data on elevated BLL percentages on its website.