Lead Poisoning

Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program

Childhood lead poisoning remains a serious issue in Black Hawk County. A number of sources of lead contamination in the environment can cause lead poisoning and while the most likely source of lead poisoning is deteriorated lead-based paint in older homes (pre-1978), it can also be found in certain foods and toys. Regardless of the source, childhood lead poisoning is very detrimental to normal development and can lead to serious, life-long health problems.

The Program

The Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention program facilitates community screening of children ages 1-6 years for elevated blood lead levels, maintaining surveillance of children with elevated blood lead levels and coordinating a robust referral process with the child's family. This process includes developmental, behavioral, medical, nutritional and environmental referrals, and assists the child's family as needed. Our services are offered in a 4-county region including Black Hawk, Bremer, Buchanan and Grundy counties.

More Information

For more information, please call Black Hawk County Public Health at 319-291-2413 . You may also contact the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services at 800-972-2026 or visit their website.

Downloads & Resources
The following Health Regulation pertaining to Lead-based Paint was adopted by the Black Hawk County Board of Health following hearing on April 27, 2022, and approved by the Black Hawk County Board of Supervisors on May 10, 2022