Purpose
To track the elimination of childhood lead exposure in Rhode Island
Key Information
Blood lead levels (BLLs) are measured in micrograms per deciliter (mcg/dL). There is no known safe level of lead exposure for children, and even low levels can affect growth, learning, and behavior.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) currently defines the blood lead reference level as ≥ 3.5 mcg/dL. This reference level is used nationally to identify children with higher levels of lead in their blood compared to most U.S. children and to guide public health surveillance. The CDC lowered the reference level from 5.0 mcg/dL to 3.5 mcg/dL in October 2021.
In Rhode Island, the state intervention level is 5.0 mcg/dL. Children with blood lead levels at or above this level are eligible for state-mandated public health follow-up and intervention services.
On this page:
- Incidence and prevalence data reflect the Rhode Island state intervention level (≥ 5.0 mcg/dL)
- Incidence and prevalence data reflecting the CDC reference level (≥ 3.5 mcg/dL) to allow alignment with national standards.