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Childhood blood lead surveillance data in California

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

Last verified from EPA SDWIS: 2026-04-14
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Childhood Blood Lead Levels in California

What California is measuring

California tracks blood lead levels in children through its Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program (CLPPP), run by the California Department of Public Health. The state requires healthcare providers to test children's blood lead levels and report results to the state health department. This data helps identify where children are being exposed to lead—whether from old paint, dust, water, or soil.

Who gets tested

California's Medicaid program (Medi-Cal) covers blood lead testing for all enrolled children. The state also recommends testing for:

  • Children ages 1–5 with no prior testing
  • Children living in homes built before 1978 (when lead paint was banned)
  • Children with known lead exposure in their home or environment

What the data shows

The CDC publishes county-level data on the percentage of California children tested who have elevated blood lead levels (5 micrograms per deciliter or higher—the CDC's reference value for action). These percentages vary across the state, with some rural and older urban counties reporting higher rates. However, statewide, California's elevated blood lead prevalence in tested children is significantly lower than the national average.

Important note: If your child has been tested and shows an elevated result, contact your pediatrician or local health department. They can help identify the source of exposure and recommend next steps.

How to access this data

The California Department of Public Health maintains CLPPP data and can provide county-level or regional breakdowns. You can request data by contacting:

California Department of Public Health Lead Program Office

Call your local county health department (numbers available through the state health department website) to ask for:

  • Blood lead testing results in your county or neighborhood
  • Information about free or low-cost testing for your child
  • Local resources for lead hazard assessment and remediation

The CDC's My Water's Test Results tool and state health department reports also publish surveillance summaries.

Next steps for residents

  • Talk to your pediatrician about whether your child should be tested, especially if your home was built before 1978.
  • Request your county's blood lead data from the local health department to understand exposure risk in your area.
  • If your child is tested and the result is elevated, work with your doctor and health department to find and remove the source.
  • Check your water through your water utility's lead service line inventory or water quality reports (available online or by calling your utility).

Related topics in California

Common questions

What blood lead level is considered elevated for children in California?

California and the CDC consider 5 micrograms per deciliter (µg/dL) or higher as elevated. Any child with a result at or above this level should see their pediatrician to identify the source of exposure and plan next steps.

Does Medi-Cal cover blood lead testing for children?

Yes. California's Medicaid program (Medi-Cal) covers blood lead testing for all enrolled children. Ask your pediatrician or local health department about testing options if you are uninsured or underinsured.

How do I find out if lead in water is a problem in my area?

Contact your water utility and request their lead service line inventory and water quality report. You can also search LeadPipeLookup or call your county health department to ask about water testing in your neighborhood.

What should I do if my child's blood lead test comes back high?

Contact your pediatrician immediately. They will help determine the source of exposure and may recommend home inspection, water testing, or removal of lead hazards. Your local health department can also provide guidance and connect you to remediation resources.