Childhood Blood Lead Surveillance Data — Missouri
Why Missouri tracks children's lead exposure
Blood lead testing is how public health officials catch lead poisoning early, before it causes lasting harm to a child's brain and body. Missouri's Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) monitors children's blood lead levels statewide and reports findings to the CDC, which publishes county-level data on the percentage of children tested with elevated levels.
How testing works in Missouri
Children under age 6 are the priority for lead screening. Missouri requires Medicaid-enrolled children to be tested at ages 1 and 2, and recommends testing for all children in that age group—whether or not they're on Medicaid. Testing is simple: a small blood sample is analyzed in a lab to measure lead concentration in micrograms per deciliter (µg/dL).
The CDC considers a blood lead level of 3.5 µg/dL or higher to be elevated. Levels above that may warrant follow-up testing, home inspection for lead hazards, or medical evaluation.
Where to find Missouri's data
The CDC's Childhood Blood Lead Surveillance System (CBLSS) publishes annual percentages of children tested with elevated blood lead levels by county and state. This data lags by one to two years but gives you a reliable picture of trends in your area.
For detailed or more recent data specific to Missouri, contact:
Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services Lead Program Office Phone: 573-751-6400 Website: health.mo.gov
They can provide county-level summaries, help you understand what testing is available in your area, and answer questions about results.
What elevated levels mean for your child
If your child has been tested and has a blood lead level of 3.5 µg/dL or higher, your pediatrician or local health department will recommend next steps—which may include repeat testing, a home lead inspection, or dietary and behavioral adjustments to reduce exposure.
For guidance on health effects and what to do after a positive test, consult the CDC's lead and children page or your child's pediatrician.
Next steps for residents
- Ask your pediatrician whether your child should be tested for lead, especially if they live in or visit an older home (pre-1978).
- Check your county's data on the CDC's CBLSS website to understand elevated levels in your area.
- Request a home lead inspection from your local health department if testing shows elevated levels or if you suspect lead paint or pipes in your home.
- Contact Missouri DHSS (573-751-6400) for questions about testing availability or to request detailed surveillance data for your county.
```json [ { "q": "What blood lead level is considered dangerous for children?", "a": "The CDC considers 3.5 µg/dL and above to be elevated and warrants follow-up. However, there is no completely safe level of lead for children. Any detectable lead exposure should prompt a conversation with your pediatrician." }, { "q": "Is my child's lead test covered by Medicaid in Missouri?", "a": "Yes. Medicaid covers blood lead testing for children under age 6. Testing is recommended at ages 1 and 2, and should also be offered to all young children regardless of insurance status." }, { "q": "How do I find out my county's childhood blood lead data?", "a": "Visit the CDC's Childhood Blood Lead Surveillance System (CBLSS) website and look up your county. You can also call Missouri DHSS at 573-751-6400 to request more detailed or recent county-level reports." }, {