Change Indicator

Children tested for lead with blood lead levels greater than or equal to 5 micrograms/deciliter in New Jersey

Children tested for lead with blood lead levels greater than or equal to 5 micrograms/deciliter

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Why This Indicator Matters

Lead is a powerful toxin that stunts mental and physical growth for kids. The only effective way to stop lead poisoning before it starts is to remove lead from homes and the environment before children are exposed. Lead exposure in children causes lifelong health, educational and developmental impacts, in particular for children exposed at a very young age.

In 2017, pursuant to recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), New Jersey now uses a blood lead level of 5 micrograms per deciliter (μg/dL) to indicate when action must be taken. Previously, New Jersey had used a blood lead reference level of 10 μg/dL.

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Definition and Source

PROVIDER

Definition

Children 6 to 26 months and under age 6 tested for lead with blood lead levels greater than or equal to 5 micrograms/deciliter.

Data Source

As reported by the N.J. Department of Health, Division of Family Health Services, Maternal and Child Health Services, Child and Adolescent Health Program, Annual Childhood Lead Exposure reports. 

Notes

Five micrograms/deciliter is a used by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as a blood lead reference level at which primary care providers are to take action to address blood lead levels in children.  

Updated 12/11/2023.

For 2012 ONLY the age designation was 6-29 months.  County totals may not sum to statewide figures due to instances in which county of residence was not specified.        

Last Updated

December 2023