Childhood Blood Lead Surveillance Data — Michigan
Overview
Michigan tracks blood lead levels in children through the state's pediatric lead screening program. This data helps identify communities where children have been exposed to lead—whether through water, paint, soil, or other sources—so families and doctors can take action.
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services manages lead screening and surveillance. If you're concerned about your child's lead exposure, ask your pediatrician for a blood lead test. Testing is particularly important if your home was built before 1978 (when lead paint was banned) or if you live in an older community served by aging water infrastructure.
Who gets tested in Michigan?
Michigan's Medicaid program covers lead screening for eligible children. Many pediatricians also recommend testing for all children under age 6, especially those living in homes built before 1978 or in neighborhoods with known lead hazards. Testing is simple—a small blood sample—and results typically come back within days.
The CDC tracks the percentage of Michigan children with elevated blood lead levels (5 micrograms per deciliter or higher, the current CDC reference value) at the county level. This data is publicly available through CDC databases and can help you understand lead risk in your specific area.
How to access your child's results
Your pediatrician receives your child's blood lead test results and will discuss them with you directly. If levels are elevated, your doctor can recommend follow-up testing, environmental assessment (checking for lead paint, dust, or water contamination), and steps to reduce exposure.
You can also contact the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Lead Poisoning Prevention for information about:
- Community-level blood lead data for your county
- Lead hazard assessment and remediation resources
- Free or low-cost lead testing programs in your area
- Guidance on water testing if lead in drinking water is a concern
Lead in water and blood levels
While lead in drinking water contributes to children's overall lead exposure, it's typically one of several sources. Homes built before 1978 may have lead service lines connecting to the water main, or lead solder in indoor plumbing. The CDC recommends flushing cold water taps before drinking or cooking if your water sits in pipes overnight.
If your water utility's lead service line inventory shows lead lines are present in your neighborhood, consider having your tap water tested. Your water utility can provide free or discounted testing kits.
Next steps for residents
- Ask your pediatrician whether your child should have a blood lead screening.
- If your home was built before 1978, request a water test from your local water utility or through your health department.
- Contact the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services for community lead data and local remediation resources.
- If your child's blood lead level is elevated, work with your pediatrician on follow-up testing and environmental assessment.
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```json [ { "q": "What is a normal blood lead level for children in Michigan?", "a": "The CDC's reference value is 3.5 micrograms per deciliter. Levels at or above 5 micrograms per deciliter are considered elevated and warrant follow-up. Your pediatrician will explain your child's individual result in context." }, { "q": "Does Michigan Medicaid cover lead screening for my child?", "a": "Yes, Michigan Medicaid covers blood lead testing for eligible children. If your child qualifies for Medicaid, talk to your pediatrician about screening, especially if you live in an older home or neighborhood." }, { "q": "How do I know if lead in my water is affecting my child's blood lead level?", "a": "Lead in water is one potential source of exposure; paint, soil, and dust are often larger contributors. A blood lead test shows overall exposure. If you suspect water lead, ask your water utility about testing and whether lead service lines are present in your area." }, { "q": "Who do I