Childhood Blood Lead Levels in Maine
Why blood lead testing matters
A child's blood lead level is the most direct way to know if they've been exposed to lead—whether from drinking water, old paint, dust, or soil. Even low levels can affect learning and development. Maine's health department tracks these levels statewide to identify where children need help.
Maine's blood lead screening program
Maine requires all children to be screened for lead by age 2, and again at ages 3 and 4. The screening is usually done as part of a routine doctor's visit with a simple blood test. If a child's level is 3.5 micrograms per deciliter (µg/dL) or higher, Maine's Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) follows up to identify the source and recommend steps to reduce exposure.
Medicaid covers blood lead testing for all enrolled children, which removes cost as a barrier. However, not all parents know to ask for the test, and some children fall through the gaps between visits.
Where to find Maine's data
The Maine DHHS Bureau of Health maintains Maine's childhood blood lead surveillance data. You can request recent screening results and county-level information about the percentage of children with elevated levels by contacting:
Maine Department of Health and Human Services Bureau of Health – Lead Program Phone: (207) 287-3672 Website: maine.gov/dhhs
State-level data is also reported annually to the CDC's National Environmental Public Health Tracking Network, which publishes trends but not address-specific results.
What the numbers tell you
Maine serves approximately 922,000 people across 1,733 public water systems. While drinking water is one potential lead source, most childhood lead exposure in Maine comes from lead paint in older homes (built before 1978) and contaminated soil. Blood lead surveillance helps pinpoint areas where multiple children show elevated levels—a sign that one or more sources in that community need attention.
If your child attends school or sees a pediatrician in Maine, ask whether they've been tested. If results come back elevated, your doctor or your local public health office can help you investigate possible sources at home.
Next steps for residents
- Ask your pediatrician if your child has had a blood lead test; children should be screened by age 2.
- Contact DHHS at (207) 287-3672 if you want to know your county's or town's blood lead screening rates.
- If your child's level is elevated, work with your pediatrician and local health department to inspect your home for lead paint, old plumbing, and dust.
- Have your water tested if your home has old pipes or lead solder; contact your local water utility or Maine's DHHS for a certified lab referral.
```json [ { "q": "Is tap water in Maine safe for children to drink?", "a": "Maine's water systems are tested regularly for lead, but risk depends on your home's pipes and fixtures. If your house was built before 1986, or if you see corrosion on brass faucets or dull gray patches on copper pipes, have your water tested. Contact your local water utility for guidance or a lab referral." }, { "q": "How often should my child be tested for lead in Maine?", "a": "Maine requires screening at age 2, 3, and 4. Your pediatrician may recommend more frequent testing if your child lives in an older home or has other risk factors. Ask your doctor at each visit." }, { "q": "What blood lead level is safe for children?", "a": "The CDC considers 3.5 µg/dL elevated and recommends action; however, no level is completely 'safe.' Even small amounts can affect development. If your child's level is 3.5 or higher, talk to your pediatrician about finding and removing sources." }, {