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Childhood blood lead surveillance data in Hawaii

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

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

Overview

Hawaii's Department of Health tracks blood lead levels in children through its surveillance program. This data helps identify where children may have been exposed to lead — whether through drinking water, paint, soil, or other sources — and guides public health efforts.

Unlike some states, Hawaii has not reported lead service lines in its public water systems to the EPA. However, lead exposure in children can come from many sources, and blood lead testing remains an important screening tool.

How Hawaii monitors childhood lead exposure

Hawaii's State Hygienic Laboratory and the Department of Health's lead prevention program coordinate screening and data collection. The state collects blood lead test results from:

  • Medicaid-enrolled children (automatic or routine screening)
  • Voluntary testing through healthcare providers
  • Targeted investigations in areas with known or suspected lead hazards

Results are reported to the CDC's surveillance system, which tracks the percentage of children with elevated blood lead levels (currently defined as 3.5 micrograms per deciliter or higher, though any detectable lead is concerning).

What the data shows

Hawaii publishes summary data on childhood blood lead levels by county and demographic group. You can request detailed surveillance reports from:

Hawaii Department of Health Lead Prevention Program Contact through the main website or call the Environmental Health Division

The CDC also maintains Hawaii county-level data on its Data and Statistics page, updated periodically.

Understanding your child's results

If your child has been tested and has an elevated result, your pediatrician or the Department of Health can:

  • Help identify possible lead sources in your home or environment
  • Recommend follow-up testing
  • Discuss whether further investigation of your water system is needed

The CDC provides guidance on what to do if your child's blood lead is elevated.

Next steps for residents

  • Ask your pediatrician whether your child should be screened for lead exposure (especially if your home was built before 1978).
  • If your child has an elevated blood lead level, contact your local health department for source investigation.
  • Request a copy of your water utility's lead service line inventory and testing results (required under federal law).
  • For health concerns, follow up with your child's healthcare provider or the CDC guidance above.

Related topics in Hawaii

Common questions

What is considered an elevated blood lead level in children?

The CDC currently defines elevated blood lead as 3.5 micrograms per deciliter or higher. However, no level of lead in blood is known to be safe, and even lower levels can affect children's development and learning.

Does Hawaii screen all children for lead?

Screening is not universal. Medicaid-enrolled children are typically offered routine screening, and your pediatrician may recommend testing based on your child's age and risk factors. Talk to your doctor about whether testing is appropriate for your child.

Where can I find Hawaii's childhood blood lead data by county?

The CDC's Data and Statistics page includes county-level surveillance data for Hawaii. You can also request detailed reports from the Hawaii Department of Health's Lead Prevention Program.

Can lead in drinking water cause elevated blood lead levels in children?

Yes, lead service lines and plumbing are common sources of lead in water, especially in older homes. However, children can also be exposed through lead paint, contaminated soil, and other sources. A water test combined with blood lead testing helps identify all potential sources.