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Childhood blood lead surveillance data in Florida

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

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Childhood Blood Lead Surveillance Data — Florida

Why Blood Lead Testing Matters

Children under 6 are most vulnerable to lead exposure. Even low levels can affect brain development, learning, and behavior—sometimes without obvious symptoms. Blood lead testing is the only way to know if a child has been exposed.

Florida tracks childhood blood lead levels through a state surveillance program. This data helps identify where children are at highest risk and guides public health efforts.

Florida's Pediatric Lead Screening Program

Florida's Department of Health manages lead poisoning prevention, including childhood blood lead surveillance. The state collects blood lead test results from labs, doctors, and hospitals across Florida to build a picture of where elevated levels are occurring.

Who gets tested?

  • Children on Medicaid are routinely tested as part of preventive health care (EPSDT program).
  • Doctors may recommend testing for any child, especially those living in older homes or near known contamination.
  • The CDC recommends all children ages 1–5 be tested at least once.

What counts as elevated? As of 2021, the CDC lowered the reference value for blood lead levels in children to 3.5 micrograms per deciliter (µg/dL). Previously it was 5.0 µg/dL. Levels at or above this threshold warrant follow-up.

County-Level Data

The CDC tracks the percentage of children with elevated blood lead levels by county. This data is updated periodically and is publicly available through the CDC's blood lead surveillance system. Florida's Department of Health can provide county-specific information if you ask.

How to Request Your Data

Contact the Florida Department of Health, Office of Environmental Public Health to:

  • Ask about blood lead levels in your specific county or neighborhood
  • Request testing for your child
  • Get information about lead hazards in your home

You can also reach your local county health department directly—they often have more detailed local data.

Next Steps for Residents

  • Get your child tested if they're under 6 and haven't been screened, especially if your home was built before 1978 (when lead paint was banned).
  • Ask your pediatrician whether testing is recommended based on your child's age and risk factors.
  • Contact your local health department to learn about lead levels in your area and get guidance on home assessment.
  • Check your water system's lead service line inventory (available on LeadPipeLookup) to understand your water system's known lead risk.

Related topics in Florida

Common questions

What blood lead level is dangerous for children in Florida?

The CDC's current reference value is 3.5 µg/dL and above. Any result at or above this level should prompt a conversation with your pediatrician about follow-up testing and source investigation. Levels this low can still affect development.

Is my child automatically tested for lead in Florida?

Children on Medicaid are routinely tested as part of preventive care. Other children may be tested at a parent's or doctor's request, or if they live in high-risk areas. Talk to your pediatrician about whether testing is right for your child.

How do I find out the blood lead levels for children in my county?

Contact your local county health department or the Florida Department of Health's lead program office. They can provide county-level surveillance data and explain what the numbers mean for your area.

Can lead in water cause elevated blood lead levels in kids?

Yes, drinking water from lead service lines or pipes can contribute to childhood lead exposure, though most childhood lead comes from old paint and contaminated soil. Check your water system's lead inventory and consider having your water tested if your home is older.