Health Tip: Get Children Tested for Lead Poisoning

(HealthDay News) - Since exposure to even low amounts of lead among children can cause learning disabilities and behavioral problems, it's important for parents to prevent exposure at home.

The Environmental Protection Agency offers these suggestions:

• Have your child tested regularly by a pediatrician.
• If your home was built before 1978, have it tested for lead paint.
• Always have your child wash his or her hands before eating.
• Wash bottles, pacifiers and toys -- and anything else that may be put in the mouth -- frequently.
• Keep floors and window sills clean and free of dust and paint chips.
• Use cold water, not hot, for drinking, cooking and preparing baby formula. Let the water run until it is as cold as possible.