What is a normal blood lead level for children?

The CDC reference value is 5 micrograms per deciliter. Levels at or above this warrant action to identify and reduce lead sources. No level is completely safe, but lower is always better.

Does Iowa require blood lead screening for all children?

Iowa encourages screening at ages 1 and 2 and before school entry, especially for children in older homes or on Medicaid. Screening is not mandatory statewide, but many pediatricians offer it routinely.

How do I find blood lead data for my county in Iowa?

Contact the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services Lead Poisoning Prevention Program directly for county-level screening rates and elevated-level percentages. The CDC also publishes county estimates online.

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

Yes, lead service lines and old plumbing can leach lead into water. If your home was built before 1980 or you have reason to suspect lead pipes, have your water tested and consider a point-of-use filter certified for lead removal.

Childhood Blood Lead Levels in Iowa

Overview

Iowa's Department of Health and Human Services tracks blood lead levels in children through its lead poisoning prevention program. This surveillance helps identify areas and age groups where lead exposure is most common—whether from old paint, dust, soil, or water.

If you're concerned about your child's lead exposure, blood testing is the only way to know their actual level. Testing is especially important for children under age 6, who absorb lead more easily than older children.

How Iowa Screens Children for Lead

Iowa's Medicaid program covers lead screening for eligible children. The state encourages testing at age 1 and 2, and again before starting school. Some pediatricians offer testing to all families; others test based on risk factors like living in older homes or near highways.

Results are reported to the state health department, which monitors trends by county and demographic group. This data helps public health officials spot problem areas and target prevention resources.

Finding Your County's Data

The CDC publishes county-level estimates of the percentage of children with elevated blood lead levels (5 micrograms per deciliter or higher). These estimates vary widely across Iowa counties depending on housing age, soil conditions, and other local factors.

To request detailed blood lead surveillance data for your county or neighborhood, contact:

Iowa Department of Health and Human Services, Lead Poisoning Prevention Program

They can provide:

Recent screening rates in your area
Percentage of children with elevated levels
Guidance on whether your home or neighborhood is a higher-risk zone

What Blood Lead Levels Mean

A level of 5 micrograms per deciliter is the CDC's reference value—the level that triggers follow-up and education. Levels above this warrant investigation into lead sources and steps to reduce exposure.

No amount of lead in blood is safe, but even small exposures early in life can affect learning and behavior. If your child's test comes back elevated, your pediatrician will help you identify and remove lead sources at home.

Next Steps for Residents

Request a blood test: Ask your pediatrician about lead screening, or call your county health department for low-cost options.
Contact the state program: Reach out to Iowa DHHS to ask about blood lead trends in your county.
Check your home: If you live in a house built before 1978, assume lead paint may be present; test your water if you have old pipes or live near an industrial area.
Talk to your pediatrician: Discuss lead sources and prevention strategies specific to your child's risk.

Childhood blood lead surveillance data in Iowa