The Hemachemistry Unit tests nearly 85,000 blood samples each year for the presence of lead. We test samples from children and prenatal patients, sent by:
- Local health departments
- Hospitals
- Physicians' offices
- Clinics
Read about a recent lead testing success.
Protecting public health
Childhood lead poisoning is among the most common environmental-based pediatric health problems nationwide.
Providers are encouraged to conduct a blood lead test on all children at 12 months and again at 24 months of age. This testing is part of a statewide effort to identify and help affected families.
We investigate when a family has elevated blood lead levels. This investigation may include environmental sampling of the:
- Home
- Workplace
- School or child care facility
Samples might include water, soil, foods, toys and paint. Our inorganic chemistry laboratory tests the samples for lead.
Learn more about lead poisoning
Our blood lead testing uses a type of mass spectrometry.
There is no safe blood lead level in children. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates action is needed when the level is at 3.5 µg/dL. Even low levels of lead in the blood can damage the brain and nervous system.
The state's robust program and partnerships help families with elevated blood lead levels. This includes testing to identify the environmental lead source, and follow-up care.
Lead poisoning is preventable, especially with what we know of common sources and pathways. The persistence of lead poisoning is a challenge for clinicians and public health authorities.
Success in preventing lead poisoning cases
In 2023, NCDHHS investigated several cases of elevated blood lead levels in children in North Carolina. A potential shared source was WanaBana apple cinnamon fruit puree pouches.
Extremely high concentrations of lead were detected in multiple lots of the product. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reviewed these findings and issued a voluntary recall.
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