In light of recent recalls of imported lead-tainted toys, the Allegheny County Health Department is cautioning parents that such toys pose a relatively low risk of lead poisoning and a much greater threat may be lurking in lead-based paint right in their own homes.

   The key to preventing lead poisoning is to stop children from coming into contact with lead and the place to start is the home. All housing built before 1978, when lead was banned in household paints, likely contains some lead-based paint. In this case, remove children from areas with chipping or peeling paint. Children may be exposed to lead by  toys that have been made in other countries and then imported into the U.S. or antique toys and collectibles passed down through generations put children at risk for such exposure.

   Lead is invisible to the naked eye and has no smell.  Children may be exposed to it from consumer products through normal hand-to-mouth activity, which is part of their normal development.  They often place toys, fingers, and other objects in their mouth, exposing themselves to lead paint or dust.

  If you have any reason to suspect that your child has been exposed to a toy containing lead, remove the toy immediately.  Most children with elevated blood lead levels have no symptoms.  The only way to tell is to have a blood lead test.  Pediatrics South can help you decide whether such a test is needed and can also recommend treatment if your child has been exposed.