State News Briefs

Health officials in Washington State are testing children's blood for high levels of lead to determine whether a need exists for lead-intervention programs.

The children being tested, ages 6 months to 3 years, are from low-income neighborhoods in Tacoma and Yakima, said Lew Kittle, a project manager for the state health department's office of toxic substances. Low-income families tend to live in homes built before 1960, when lead-based paint was commonly used. Exposure to lead can impair learning ability in children.

If a significant number of children have elevated levels of lead in their blood, the health department will develop ways to screen other children, Mr. Kittle said. The state will also begin a public education program on the dangers of lead, and certify workers to rid...