When should children be screened for lead exposure according to Illinois law?

Children should be screened for lead exposure according to Illinois law primarily at ages 1 and 2, with additional screenings recommended for children aged 3 to 6 if they are identified as being at risk. This approach is based on the understanding that the early years of a child’s life are critical for development, and exposure to lead during this time can lead to significant health issues, including cognitive impairment and developmental delays.

The rationale behind screening at these specific ages is twofold: first, many children may be exposed to lead from a variety of sources, including older homes with lead-based paint and lead-contaminated soil, particularly in certain neighborhoods. Screening at ages 1 and 2 allows for early detection, which is crucial for implementing preventive measures and ensuring that children receive proper medical care if lead exposure is found. Second, the recommendation to continue screening for children aged 3 to 6 who are identified as at risk helps to catch any cases of lead exposure that may occur during that timeframe, as children continue to explore their environments and may encounter lead hazards.

This two-tiered approach, focusing on both universal screening at ages 1 and 2 and targeted assessment for those at higher risk, reflects best practices in public health to protect children from the