Testing Kids For Lead Up In Wake Of Toxic Toy Recall

Following the recall by Mattel of toys painted with lead paint, some community hospitals and health departments have seen a sudden spike in the number of parents seeking blood lead tests for their children.

A blood test is a good start. Then, parents should concentrate on finding and eliminating any source of lead around the home. The most common sources of lead are not toys but household paint and dust, particularly in homes built before 1978. Remodeling of homes and old, cracked and pealing paint are the most common sources.

Keeping children's hands clean, keeping old paint moist -- or painting it over -- and taking care to keep children away from remodeling dust are important steps to take. Diet -- including healthy doses of Iron, Vitamin C and Calcium -- is also key.

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