The Silver Spring Health Center operates The Childhood Lead Prevention Program, which provides case management for children who have blood lead levels of at least 10 micrograms per deciliter. The program offers education and outreach to: schools, child care facilities, landlords, residents, and the medical community about lead poisoning. It also monitors incidences of childhood lead poisoning and environmental lead hazards in the community; and provides promotion of lead-safe environments for children in Montgomery County. The only way to know if a child has lead poisoning is to have them tested. Children can be tested through a primary physician or at a community clinic. Maryland law requires that all children residing in Montgomery County have a blood lead test at their 12 month and 24 month visit. All children between the ages of 6 months and 6 years of age should be checked for lead. Children with lead poisoning might report stomach aches, decreased appetites, hyperactivity, sleeping problems or irritability.

For prevention educational materials; or to learn how often to have a child tested; or if a child has an abnormal lead level, contact the Health Center in Silver Spring: 240.777.3160.

Please note: there is a Community Clinic, located at the same address. They provide medical and dental care. Please see link below, or contact the clinic at: 301.585.1250.