Rosh Pinah Lead Care

Blood testing for lead levels

If you or your child have been around lead, it is important to check if lead has entered the body. A blood lead test is the only way to know for sure.

How is a blood lead test done

A doctor or nurse will take a small amount of blood from a vein in your arm.
The blood is sent to a lab to check how much lead is in it.
The test does not hurt much—just a small pinch when the needle goes in, but it can be traumatizing for a child.

Understanding your test results

Blood lead levels are measured in micrograms per deciliter (µg/dL). The higher the number, the more lead is in the blood.

Less than 5 µg/dL

Lead is low, but it’s still best to avoid lead exposure.

5-10 µg/dL

This means there is some lead in the blood. It’s important to find and reduce lead exposure.

10-20 µg/dL

Lead levels are too high. More testing and action are needed to lower exposure.

Above 20 µg/dL

This is dangerous. A doctor will work with you to find out where the lead is coming from and how to remove it.

Above 45 µg/dL

This is very serious. A child may need medical treatment to remove lead from the body.

The blood lead level (BLL) reference values are based on guidelines from health organizations like the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO), and other public health agencies. Here are some key references:

CDC reference value

The CDC currently considers 3.5 µg/dL as the reference level at which children’s blood lead levels are considered elevated.

Source: CDC Lead Poisoning Prevention

Health Risk Guidelines

5-9 µg/dL: Increased risk of developmental effects in children.
10-19 µg/dL: Continued exposure can lead to cognitive and behavioral effects.
20-44 µg/dL: Requires medical monitoring and removal from exposure.
45+ µg/dL: Considered a medical emergency; chelation therapy may be needed.

Sources: WHO: Lead Poisoning and Health, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR): Lead Toxicity

Will lead leave the body?

Yes, over time, the body can remove lead, but only if exposure stops.

Drinking lots of water and eating healthy foods can help.
If blood lead levels are very high, a doctor may give medicine to help remove lead faster.

Getting tested and taking action early can help keep your family safe and healthy.

Book your test

Sidadi Clinic

+264 63 274 911

98 Corner Ondye Drive & Kwartel Sint