Childhood Lead and Asthma

The Prince George's County Health Department provides services to help families address health conditions influenced by the home environment. The Childhood Lead and Asthma Program supports children with elevated blood lead levels and children diagnosed with asthma. The program works to improve health outcomes by:

Reducing environmental lead hazards and asthma triggers in the home
Encouraging ongoing medical care with a primary care provider
Providing environmental case management in partnership with families and healthcare providers

Lead

Lead poisoning is a preventable childhood health issue. Children can be exposed to lead by swallowing lead-containing products or breathing in lead dust. Lead exposure can cause irreversible effects, including learning and developmental delays, behavior challenges, and lower IQ.
Primary caregivers are encouraged to speak with their child's healthcare provider about lead testing. All children at 12 months and 2 years old should receive a blood lead test, or at any age if they may have been exposed. Testing is especially important for children living in older homes with peeling paint.
If your child has an elevated blood lead level, the Health Department will receive a report from the state and contact you directly.

Asthma

Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease that tightens the airways in the lungs and forms mucus, which causes difficulties in breathing.
Symptoms include wheezing, cough, shortness of breath, chest pain and difficulty breathing.
It can be triggered by allergens such as pollen animal dander, pests, mold and irritants such as smoke, chemicals, pollution and strong odors such as perfume.
If your child has been diagnosed with asthma, is under the age of 19, and has Medicaid or is eligible for Medicaid, you may qualify for the program. This program will offer up to six (6) home visits to you and your family about how to manage your child's asthma. You may receive items for your home to control asthma triggers.

Services

Case Management

Support for children with elevated blood lead levels. Call 301-883-7538 for assistance.

Environmental Assessments

Home assessments following confirmed reports of elevated blood lead levels in children. Call 301-883-7662 for assistance or email leadandasthmaprogram@co.pg.md.us.

Educational Programs

Information on lead exposure prevention and safe lead paint reduction practices.

Telephone Consultations

Guidance on asthma triggers, mold, and indoor air quality concerns. Call 301-883-7662 or email leadandasthmaprogram@co.pg.md.us.

Lead in Drinking Water

For questions, call 301-883-7681.

Workplace Lead Exposure Referrals

For concerns about adult lead exposure at work, contact the Maryland Occupational Safety and Health (MOSH) Program at 410-527-4499.