There's one quick way to find out if your child has been lead poisoned: Ask your doctor or health care provider for a blood lead test. This test is a simple way of telling if your child has been recently exposed to lead; although, be aware that not all doctors are aware of the lead problem. Many still think that lead poisoning is only a problem in the United States.
Explain to your health care provider that you live in an older home and that older homes are a source of lead for young children.
When's the best time to test?
A child should have their first blood test between 6 months and 1 year. This is the time when children crawl and explore their environment by putting things like toys (and dirt!) in their mouths. Test your child’s blood lead levels again at age 2. Blood lead levels peak between 18 and 36 months. If you wait too long to test your child you may miss the problem.
What does it cost to have a blood lead test?
In Canada the cost of the blood lead test is covered by provincial health insurance. How easy is that?
How do I interpret the results?
If your child's blood lead results are high, (greater than 5 micrograms) have your child's blood lead levels re-checked in 3-6 months. A level of ‘5’ could mean your child is getting “extra” lead from somewhere in their environment, or it could be a false reading. The re-test blood lead levels should be lower, not higher. If levels are higher, or have stayed the same, you need to do some investigating to find out where the lead is coming from.
If your child's blood lead levels are 10 micrograms per deciliter or higher , your child is likely being exposed to lead from a source such as flaking paint, home renovations, or a nearby source such as a lead smelter. At these blood lead levels, be extremely cautious. Have your child's blood lead levels re-tested immediately.