Study of lead in Crawford County homes and yardsObjectivesA study to assess lead content of the homes and yards of 60 low-income families in Crawford County is underway (Waggett et al. 2004). Previous analysis has shown Crawford County children to be at high risk for lead exposure. Preliminary results of soil analyses have shown that more than 50% of all yard samples have elevated lead levels (>100 ppm), and 10% are highly elevated (>500ppm). More than 60% of yards tested had at least one of five samples with elevated lead concentration. Dust samples have not been analyzed. While assessments are not complete, the presence of lead in soils reveals at least one possible lead exposure source. Individually, these indicators suggest the presence of lead in the built environment; collectively, they suggest that many children may be at elevated risk (Francek et al. 1994). Identifying the incidence of lead poisoning in children is critical to assess how many and which children are at risk so that targeted prevention measures can be implemented. Crawford County is similar to hundreds of rural counties throughout the Northeast and Appalachia with failing industrial bases and aging housing. Completing this study could lead to finding effective prevention methods that can be transferred to these at-risk communities. We propose to complete the remaining assessment of lead content in the homes and yards of the remaining families during the summer of 2005. We will work with Caryl Waggett, PhD, an Environmental Science professor at Allegheny College to build upon the study originated in 2004 bringing it closer to its anticipated completion in spring of 2006. Dr. Wahhett has contacted the four Crawford County school districts and has already arranged to enroll families through the six elementary schools within Crawford Central. Further efforts have been made to collaborate with the Meadville Ministers’ Union to connect parishes that may have congregations at high-risk to encourage participation. Our role this summer will include inviting participation, contacting interested participants by phone to verify eligibility and arrange times to conduct sampling; conducting soil and dust sample collection within participating homes; performing laboratory analyses of soil and dust samples for lead; and analyzing final results to assess whether or not elevated lead levels are present and if so, whether they are stratified by variables such as family income or home-ownership. Findings of homes that are positive for trace levels of lead or higher will support our theoretical findings of high risk of exposure. Information about tests and what to do with positive test results will be provided to all residents who participate. We can then evaluate community-wide exposure and risk assessments. Regional indicators of lead riskMap - Weighted risk of exposure to lead (pdf 337K) Methods Dust Sampling and Analysis Protocol Researchers and Financial SupportResearchers
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