Background / Purpose: The Colorado Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program conducts in-home environmental investigations for children and pregnant women with confirmed elevated blood lead levels at or above the CDC reference value of 3.5 µg/dL. All confirmed cases are contacted by a lead risk assessor and offered a free investigation. These investigations assess categories of potential lead exposure: paint, dust, food, water, soil, and consumer products. After the investigation, a report is generated that summarizes findings and provides recommendations to address any lead exposures.
Methods: Investigations conducted between July 2024 and December 2025 were included in this analysis. Data collected included demographic information, housing characteristics, and laboratory results for tested environmental samples and consumer products. Analyses examined the frequency and type of lead exposure sources identified, the presence of multiple exposure categories within a home, demographic patterns, and follow-up blood lead testing after the investigation.
Results: A total of 80 investigations were completed for 91 people. At least one lead exposure source was identified in 92.5% of homes. Consumer products were the most common source, with 62.5% of homes containing at least one product with elevated lead levels. Dust was the second most common source, with elevated dust levels found in 47.5% of investigations. In addition, 62.5% of homes had two or more lead exposure sources across multiple categories. After receiving recommendations, 56.6% of families obtained follow-up blood lead testing. Among those retested, 86.2% had lower blood lead levels, and approximately half fell below the CDC reference value.
Implications: These findings demonstrate the feasibility of the program for identifying sources of lead exposure in Colorado homes. Results can inform targeted prevention strategies, support exposure reduction efforts, and encourage follow-up blood lead testing.
