On-line Lead Poisoning Prevention Course

Developed by the Governor's Advisory Committee on Lead Poisoning and the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services

Exposure to lead impairs development and causes neurological deficits in children, which can lead to nervous system damage, impaired hearing, and interference with growth. In order to facilitate public awareness, reduce lead exposure, improve screening for lead poisoning and provide treatment of lead poisoning, numerous agencies and professional organizations including the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the American Medical Association (AMA), and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) have published standards and policies. This course is designed to give healthcare providers a background on lead poisoning in Missouri, and knowledge about the most recent and effective methods to identify and treat children that may be exposed to lead hazards.

Course Goals

Healthcare professionals play important roles in detection, treatment and prevention of childhood lead poisoning. The goal of this continuing medical education course is to present an overview of the following information:

• Sources of lead exposure
• Lead metabolism
• Harmful effects of lead
• Assessing the risk of lead poisoning
• History of blood lead levels
• Blood lead testing
• Case management of elevated blood lead levels (Including Testing and Follow-up Guidelines)
• Chelation therapy

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