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Childhood blood lead surveillance data in North Dakota

What do blood lead levels look like for children in North Dakota?

Last verified from EPA SDWIS: 2026-04-14
Water systems
399
Known lead
0
Unknown
0
BIL funding
$0M

Childhood Blood Lead Levels in North Dakota

Why test children for lead?

Lead exposure—even at low levels—can affect a child's brain development, behavior, and learning. The only way to know if a child has been exposed is through a blood test. North Dakota tracks these results to identify where children are at risk and connect families with support.

North Dakota's blood lead screening program

North Dakota's Department of Health and Human Services (specifically the Environmental Health Section) oversees pediatric blood lead surveillance. The program collects data from blood tests performed on children statewide and tracks the percentage of children with elevated blood lead levels by county.

Key coverage: Children on Medicaid are eligible for blood lead screening. Screening is also recommended for all children ages 1–5 years, particularly those living in older homes (built before 1978, when lead paint was banned), in homes undergoing renovation, or near industrial sites.

If you want your child tested, talk to your pediatrician. Your doctor can order the test through a lab; results are reported to the state health department and used to build a public picture of lead exposure patterns across the state.

Accessing county-level data

The CDC tracks childhood blood lead surveillance data by county through its Healthy Homes and Lead Poisoning Prevention program. These county-level percentages show the share of children tested who had elevated blood lead levels (typically defined as 3.5 micrograms per deciliter or higher, though this threshold has changed over time).

To find North Dakota county data or to request specific surveillance reports, contact:

North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services Environmental Health Section (701) 328-2378

You can also ask your local health department or county environmental health office for recent data on your area.

What the data means for your home

Blood lead levels in children reflect past and ongoing exposure—usually from lead paint in older homes, lead-contaminated dust, soil, or drinking water. North Dakota serves 712,514 people across 399 water systems. While your water system's lead service line inventory status matters, childhood blood lead data points to all sources of exposure in a community.

If your county shows elevated childhood blood lead levels, that's a signal to test your home for lead hazards and your water for lead contamination.

Next steps for residents

  • Ask your pediatrician to test your child's blood lead level, especially if your home was built before 1978 or if your child shows symptoms of developmental delay.
  • Contact your water utility to ask about lead service lines on your property and any recent water lead testing results.
  • Request your county's blood lead data from your local health department to understand exposure patterns in your area.
  • Learn about lead hazard reduction from the EPA's resources on home safety and water testing.

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Common questions

Should I have my child's blood tested for lead in North Dakota?

Yes. The CDC recommends blood lead screening for all children ages 1–5, especially those in homes built before 1978 or undergoing renovation. Contact your pediatrician to request a test; Medicaid covers screening for eligible children.

Where can I find blood lead level data for my North Dakota county?

Contact the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services, Environmental Health Section, at (701) 328-2378, or ask your local county health department. County-level surveillance data is also tracked by the CDC's lead poisoning prevention program.

What does an elevated blood lead level mean for my child?

Elevated levels (typically 3.5 mcg/dL or higher) indicate past or ongoing lead exposure and warrant investigation of your home, water, and surroundings. Contact your pediatrician for next steps—they can guide testing for lead hazards and help reduce exposure.

Is lead in North Dakota tap water a major source of child lead exposure?

Water is one possible source, but lead paint in older homes and contaminated dust are often larger contributors. Check your water system's lead service line inventory and request a water test; also have your home inspected for lead hazards.