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Childhood blood lead surveillance data in Colorado

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

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

What Colorado tracks

Colorado's Department of Public Health and Environment monitors blood lead levels in children through the state's Lead Poisoning Prevention Program. This surveillance data helps identify whether children are exposed to lead in their homes, schools, water, or elsewhere—not just tap water, but all sources combined.

The CDC tracks the percentage of children tested in Colorado counties who have elevated blood lead levels (5 micrograms per deciliter or higher). These county-level numbers are updated regularly and are publicly available through the CDC's tracking system.

Medicaid and screening

Colorado Medicaid requires screening for children ages 1 to 5 at their annual well-child visits. However, screening rates vary by county and depend on whether families are enrolled in Medicaid and have regular access to pediatric care. If your child is on Medicaid, ask your pediatrician whether a blood lead test has been done.

Private insurance coverage for blood lead tests also varies. Many plans cover screening if ordered by a doctor, but you may want to check your policy or call your insurance company to confirm before scheduling a test.

How to get Colorado's data

Colorado's Lead Poisoning Prevention Program, housed in the Department of Public Health and Environment, publishes surveillance data and responds to requests for specific county or statewide statistics. You can contact the program directly to:

  • Request the latest county-level elevated blood lead percentages
  • Ask whether your neighborhood or school has known lead hazards
  • Learn about free or low-cost testing for your home
  • Find resources for lead abatement (removal or encapsulation)

The program also maintains information on lead in water, soil, and paint—the three main sources of childhood exposure.

Why this matters

Even low-level lead exposure can affect a child's brain development, learning, behavior, and growth. There is no safe level of lead in a child's blood. Early detection through blood testing allows families and doctors to identify and reduce sources of exposure before serious harm occurs.

Next steps for residents

  • Ask your pediatrician whether your child has had a blood lead test. If not, request one.
  • Contact the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment Lead Poisoning Prevention Program to request county or neighborhood-specific surveillance data.
  • If your home was built before 1978, have it inspected for lead paint, which is a far more common source of childhood exposure than water.
  • Review CDC guidance on symptoms, health effects, and what to do if your child's blood lead is elevated.

Related topics in Colorado

Common questions

Is lead in Colorado drinking water making children sick?

Lead in water is one possible source of exposure, but paint and soil are more common in homes. Blood lead surveillance tracks all sources combined. Ask your water utility and pediatrician about your specific situation.

How do I get my child tested for lead in Colorado?

Talk to your pediatrician. Medicaid covers screening for children 1–5 at annual visits. Private insurance coverage varies. Your doctor can order a blood test and explain results.

What does an elevated blood lead level mean?

The CDC considers 5 µg/dL or higher elevated. Even small increases can affect learning and behavior. Your pediatrician will discuss what steps to take next, such as removing lead sources from your home.

Who do I contact in Colorado for lead exposure questions?

Start with your pediatrician for health concerns, and contact the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment Lead Poisoning Prevention Program for home inspection, water testing, or surveillance data.