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An Australian Institute of Health and Welfare study predicted that there
were more than75,000 children under 5 years old in Australia with lead
poisoning i.e. that they have elevated blood lead levels. Very few of these
children are being identified due to the lack of any obvious symptoms and
lack of awareness among the community and the medical profession. They are
then at risk of reduced IQ, behaviour disorder (including ADHD and
delinquency), learning disorder or developmental delay.

The LEAD group recommends that all Australian children be screened according
to their questionnaire which is at http://www.lead.org.au/fst10.html, and if
any risk factor is identified that they have a blood lead test. This will
probably identify around 70% of affected children.

Information on other aspects of lead poisoning including adult lead
poisoning is available on www.lead.org.au.

In the USA, they have universal blood testing for lead levels in children in
most communities, unless it has been shown that there is a very low rate of
risk (mainly in new towns) in which case questionnaire screening is
recommended. Prof Mira's 1996 study found that, within 10 km of the Sydney
GPO, that 25% of children under 4 have elevated lead levels and 7% have
seriously elevated levels. This study is technically the best one yet
conducted in Australia.

Lead is very political because Australia is one of the world's largest
miners of lead. Lead mining and smelting communities have their own special
programs. Outside of that, there is very little solid data on other major
Australian cities. Many studies are diluted with older children and the LEAD
group does not think these are as accurate, as lead poisoning is highest in
younger children 9-24 months, but also common from 0 to 4 years. Lead
poisoning can occur at any age and may affect the unborn child.

Most cases of lead poisoning can be prevented. Please contact the LEAD group
or browse their website for information before proceeding with home
renovations or any other activity that you are concerned about.

Dr Ben Balzer, family physician
Technical Advisory Board
The LEAD Group www.lead.org.au