By Staff
BENTON HARBOR – Parents will be able to get their children and their children's toys tested for lead at two separate events in Benton Harbor hosted by state Rep. John Proos and the Berrien County Health Department in conjunction with the Lead Safe Kids Coalition.
Out of 13 communities in Michigan singled out for unusually high numbers of children with lead poisoning, Berrien County has the second most, according to the county's health department.
The child lead poisoning event is Wednesday, Feb. 27 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Berrien County Health Department, 769 Pipestone Road, in Benton Harbor.
Appointments can be made by calling (269) 927-5638.
"Lead poisoning is the most common environmental disease of children," said Dr. Rick Johansen, Berrien County's Health Department medical director.
"Most of the damage is to the developing brains of children under six years old. Blood testing is required because there are no clear symptoms to identify lead poisoned children. The primary source of children's exposure to lead is by far lead-based paint and lead contaminated dust in older housing. Testing at risk children is a must to aid in prevention of lead poisoning."
Even at low levels, lead has serious negative effects on the central nervous system. Lead poisoning impairs school performance in the early years as well as the grade school years, and can impair brain functions even into young adulthood.
The toy lead testing event, also sponsored by Ecology Center and the Michigan Environmental Council, will be on Friday, Feb. 29 from 2 to 5 p.m. in the Anchor Room of Michigan Works, 499 W. Main Street, in Benton Harbor. Appointments are not necessary.