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Funding Cuts Eliminate or Severely Handicap Lead Poisoning Prevention Programs

Fri, 16 Mar 2012 12:21:46 EST

Funding for the lead poisoning prevention programs run by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has been drastically cut, reports the New York Times. For the 2013 fiscal year, only $2 million is allotted for the greatly needed programs, which previously relied on $29 million to carry out their services.
 
The result will be a major disruption or possible permanent cessation of those services, which include lead paint remediation assistance, the prevention and education programs, and the database of recorded blood levels that health professionals rely on to observe sudden spikes in specific regions.
 
The New York Times notes that some states may be able to scrape together some funds for lead poisoning prevention efforts, but most likely it will not be enough to sustain the activities listed above.
 
Children are at the greatest risk for lead poisoning, because they are still developing and their small bodies would contain higher concentrations than adults. Possible complications resulting from lead poisoning are learning disabilities, mental retardation, behavioral problems, lowered intelligence, stunted growth, and hearing impairment.
 
'As the first step in the lead removal process, EMSL Analytical analyzes soil, drinking and waste water, air, wipes, and paint chip samples for competitive prices,' states Shannon Kauffman, Supervisor of EMSL's Metals Laboratory. 'Furthermore, we offer scientifically and legally defensible lead testing at locations across the country.'
 
For more information on EMSL's testing services, please contact EMSL at (800) 220-3675, visit www.EMSL.com, or email info@EMSL.com.