About the Project
Study Background
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Human exposure to lead (Pb) is a major global public health concern; 1 in 3 children globally are estimated to suffer from Pb exposure with adverse health outcomes (Rees, 2020).
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Childhood Pb poisoning is the longest-standing public health epidemic in U.S. history; children living in lower-income neighborhoods are at highest risk due to differences in the built environment (Jacobs, 2011; Stevenson, 2001).
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The two major sources of Pb exposure to children are:
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Paint chips and dust from lead-based paint in the home.
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Pb in soil and/or water due to both natural and human-made sources.
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Both the Westside of Atlanta (Fulton County) and Gwinnett County contain many old homes that have lead paint; this puts local residents – especially children – at risk.
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Lead exposure, even at low levels, can cause serious health problems including adverse neurological, immunological and reproductive effects.
Study Aim
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This study focuses on identifying and abating households with high lead paint levels in Gwinnett County and the Westside of Atlanta. If your home is found to have high levels of lead paint after we screen for it, we can offer free extensive testing and abatement options to help reduce or eliminate your family's exposure to toxic lead.
Study Participation
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Home screening for high lead paint levels
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Study home visit scheduled at your convenience:
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Environmental sample collection: paint, dust (optional) and soil (optional)
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Biological sample collection: blood (minimally invasive)
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Completion of a household survey
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Household paint remediation (if required)
Get Involved & Join
You may be eligible to participate if you:​
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Live in either the Westside of Atlanta (Fulton Country) or Gwinnett County
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Are 18 years of age or older
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Have high lead paint detected in your home during study screening
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Potential Benefits to the Participant:
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Reduced exposure to lead paint following remediation; this may have positive health benefits.
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Individualized, detailed exposure report for each household that addresses potential risk factors of environmental lead, especially lead paint.
Additional Information
Partners
Contact Us
Phone: 404-727-0487
Email: lead.pb@emory.edu
Sources
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Renner, R. Exposure on Tap: Drinking Water as an Overlooked Source of Lead. Environ.
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https://doi.org/10.1016/j.toxrep.2022.12.004.
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The work that provided the basis for this publication was supported by funding under an award with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The substance and findings of the work are dedicated to the public. The author and publisher are solely responsible for the accuracy of the statements and interpretations contained in this publication. Such interpretations do not necessarily reflect the views of the Government.