By Emily R. Evans
The Truth Reporter
On Saturday December 20, a lead poison testing event was held at The Nexus on Jefferson Ave from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Lucas County children who were tested blood levels for lead which can be very dangerous for anyone also were able to take part in a toy giveaway. The children all seemed excited to pick gifts from Santa and have lunch with other children from all around northwest Ohio.
The lead testing event was sponsored by The Junction Coalition, Neighborhood Health Association and other partners
Alicia Smith, executive director at the Junction Coalition, said: “Any amount of lead is unsafe for human consumption and we do not know where our children are being exposed. It’s important for our community to make sure we are testing our homes and children for lead.”
The event’s main focus in partnership with the Centers For Disease Control was to test the children for lead and to give them lunch as well as a free gift from Santa. Lead testing through Nexus continues throughout the year and is available to families to sign up. If there are any questions or concerns, reach out to 419-408-0998.
Lead is a toxic metal that can cause serious health problems in humans and animals, even at low levels of exposure. It is commonly found in old paint, contaminated soil, water from lead pipes, certain household items and industrial pollution. Because lead builds up in the body over time, its effects can be long-lasting and sometimes permanent.
In adults, lead exposure can cause headaches, fatigue, memory problems, high blood pressure, kidney damage, and reproductive issues. Long-term exposure has also been linked to heart disease and nervous system damage. Many adults may not realize they are exposed because symptoms can be mild or mistaken for other conditions.
Children are especially vulnerable to lead poisoning because their brains and bodies are still developing. Even small amounts of lead can cause learning disabilities, behavioral problems, reduced IQ, speech delays and difficulty concentrating. In severe cases, lead exposure can result in seizures, developmental delays or permanent brain damage. Because children often put their hands or objects in their mouths, they are at higher risk of exposure from dust, paint chips, or contaminated soil.
Animals, including pets and wildlife, can also suffer from lead poisoning. Exposure may occur through contaminated water, soil, food, or lead-based objects. Symptoms in animals include vomiting, loss of appetite, weakness, seizures, and neurological damage. In wildlife, lead exposure can reduce survival rates and disrupt entire ecosystems.
Regular lead testing is one of the most effective ways to prevent harm. Blood lead level testing can identify exposure early, often before serious symptoms appear. Testing homes, water sources, soil, and consumer products helps locate and eliminate sources of lead. For children and pregnant individuals, routine screening is especially important. Early detection allows families and communities to take action—such as removing lead sources, improving nutrition, and seeking medical care—before long-term damage occurs.
Lead exposure is a preventable health risk that affects humans, children, and animals alike. Awareness, prevention, and regular testing play a critical role in protecting health, supporting healthy development, and creating safer environments for everyone.