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Lead Screening and Testing in Kansas

Date: 11/10/23

Lead is a highly toxic substance that, when exposed to, can 1) cause damage to the brain and nervous system; 2) slow growth and development; 3) cause learning and behavioral problems; 4) cause hearing and speech impediments.

Get the Facts

  • One out of every 14 U.S. children tested has elevated lead levels that are high enough to damage their health. In Kansas, 2.6% of children had elevated blood lead levels between 2018-2020.
  • In 2021, a study by Quest Diagnostics and Boston Children’s hospital reported 1 in every 2 children had detectible levels of lead in their blood. Between 2018-2020, 65% of all Kansas children tested had detectible levels of lead in their blood.
  • 20% of attention deficit disorder cases can be attributed to lead exposure.
  • Kansas was ranked 13th nationally in 2012 for elevated lead levels. – The state has been unable to report more recent numbers due to low blood level screening rates. *Reminder – KDHE requires all blood lead results to be reported within 24 hours of the test completion.
  • The average Kansas home was built in 1976*, but lead-based paints weren’t banned in housing until 1978. That means, many homes may contain hazards like deteriorating lead paint or lead-contaminated dust.
  • Children with public insurance (Medicaid) were nearly twice as likely to have a detectable blood lead level and slightly more likely to have an elevated blood lead level, as compared to those in private health plans.

Lead Exposure in Kansas

Lead can be found throughout a child’s environment. Even children without direct exposure can be affected through the clothing and shoes of parents and other adults in the community. Some examples:

  • Homes with deteriorating lead paint or lead-contaminated dust, some water pipes and stained-glass windows.
  • Battery recycling plants, shooting ranges, fishing and hunting equipment.
  • Foods, cosmetics, jewelry and some traditional medicines or glazed pottery imported from other countries.

Lead Screening and Testing Guidelines

Screening – The Kansas Periodicity Schedule (Bright Futures-AAP) recommends that a lead assessment be done at 6 months, 9 months, 18 months, and yearly from ages 3 to 6 years.

Testing – The Medicaid Guidelines require two lead capillary or venous blood tests – one at 12 months and one at 24 months. Any child between ages 24 and 72 months with no record of a previous blood lead test also must receive one.  The risk assessment questionnaire does not meet the requirement for testing.

To meet the HEDIS measure, members must have at least one lead capillary or venous blood test on or before the child’s second birthday.

For More information and Resources:

HEDIS™ is a registered trademark of the The National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA).