5020.3: Wednesday, November 15, 2000 - Board 4

Abstract #6719

Increasing screening for childhood lead poisoning through collaborative planning

Lynne Wittenberg, MPH and Carol Sparks, PHN, MPH. Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program, Santa Cruz County Health Services Agency, 119 Hillcrest Terrace, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, (831) 763-8900, lynnew@mac.com

Lead screening rates remain low in Santa Cruz County, as throughout California. There is a higher incidence of lead poisoning among low-income and Latino children, especially among Mexican immigrants. Lead burdened children are at increased risk for health problems and learning disabilities. To increase lead prevention awareness and screening rates, the Santa Cruz County Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program initiated the "Lead Collaborative Outreach Project." This session will describe how collaborative planning efforts involving other children’s health agencies can enhance local lead poisoning prevention efforts.

The goals of the project are (1) to increase lead screening rates among high-risk children, particularly Latinos; and (2) to integrate lead poisoning prevention activities into other children’s health programs. Mini-grants were awarded to WIC and Head Start programs to implement a range of lead prevention activities, including a Spanish media campaign, outreach in high-risk neighborhoods, parent education classes, and incentives to promote blood lead testing. Agencies emphasized common sources of lead as well as cultural sources, such as Mexican pottery and folk remedies.

Preliminary findings indicate that lead screening rates have increased among young children receiving services at participating agencies. Staff at partner agencies have improved their knowledge and skills in lead prevention, thereby increasing their capacity to incorporate lead prevention education into existing child health programs. The presentation will describe project outcomes, as well as outline challenges and key elements of success involved in implementing lead education activities with limited funding.

Learning Objectives: (1) Describe effective strategies to integrate lead education into existing children's health programs; and (2) Identify successful health education strategies to promote childhood lead screening and awareness

Keywords: Lead, Children's Health

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Santa Cruz County Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: Project funded by Calif. Dept of Health Services, Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Branch.

The 128th Annual Meeting of APHA