Blood Lead Tests

Lead can enter your child's body any time they inhale or swallow something that contains lead. When lead gets in the body, it can cause serious health and learning problems. The only way to tell if your child has been exposed to lead is to have a blood lead test done.

Medical Assistance requires all children enrolled in its programs to be tested for lead at ages 12 and 24 months. Children under age 6 who have not been tested before must also be tested. The test can be done during a well-child visit. Getting this important test done is just one of the reasons why well-child visits matter!

The most common sources of lead are lead-based paint, lead dust, soil, contaminated water, and some imported products, foods, and spices.

Refer to “Lead Awareness” from the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) for more information.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

PW_07-17_275
DHS_Approved_01/09/2026
Updated_01/16/2026