High Point - This week is National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, and while you may not hear about lead poisoning often, it is still considered one of the most preventable environmental diseases in children.
Lead paint is most often found in homes built before 1978, and a child can get lead poisoning by touching dust from windows or doors containing lead paint.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates 500,000 children across the United States have unhealthy lead levels in their bodies, which left untreated can lead to brain damage.
The CDC recommends your child get tested for lead at least once before age one and then once a year until they turn six.
The Guilford County Health Department offers free lead screenings Monday through Friday, from 9:00 - 11:00 am and 1:00 - 4:00 pm.
Their office is located at 501 East Green Drive in High Point and 1100 East Wendover Avenue in Greensboro.
No appointment is necessary