HNL Lab Medicine’s Lead Testing Partnership – Addressing the Lead Poisoning Crisis
The Lead Poisoning Crisis in Northampton County
Lead poisoning remains a silent but devastating threat to children’s health in Northampton County.
Despite the known dangers of lead exposure, testing rates remain low, leaving many children at risk of lifelong health issues. According to the Lead-Free Promise Project:
- Northampton County has the 16th highest number of lead-poisoned children in Pennsylvania.
- Over 100 children are poisoned every year—enough to fill five preschool classrooms.
- Only 14% of children are screened for lead, meaning many more may be undiagnosed.
- Children in Northampton County are poisoned at the same rate as children in Flint, Michigan during the peak of the city’s lead crisis.
The Primary Source of Lead Exposure: Homes Built Before 1978
Lead-based paint is the leading cause of lead poisoning in children. Although it was banned for residential use in 1978, 63% of homes in Northampton County were built before 1980, putting thousands of children at risk of exposure from deteriorating paint and dust ¹.
Many older homes may also have lead pipes or plumbing fixtures, which can contaminate drinking water. Even low levels of lead exposure from water can contribute to long-term health issues in children.
A Disproportionate Impact
Lead poisoning does not affect all communities equally. Black and Hispanic children in Northampton County are three times more likely to be poisoned than white children due to greater exposure to older housing with lead hazards ¹.
HNL Lab Medicine’s Commitment to Lead Testing
At HNL Lab Medicine, we are dedicated to increasing access to lead testing and early detection to prevent childhood lead poisoning. Through our Lead Testing Partnership, we work to ensure that more children are screened and protected from the dangers of lead exposure.
Starting April 9, lead testing will be available for children up to age 15 who live in Northampton County. Testing will take place at the Bethlehem Township LVHN Health Center on Emrick Boulevard on the second Wednesday of each month from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. No doctor’s order is needed.
For uninsured children, the county will cover the cost of testing. For families that are not eligible, HNL Lab Medicine now offers the ability to purchase lead testing through HNL Lab Tests Direct.
Why Lead Testing Matters
- Early detection can prevent irreversible health effects. Lead poisoning can cause developmental delays, learning disabilities, and behavioral issues.
- Screening rates must improve. With only 14% of children tested, many cases go undiagnosed, putting more children at risk ¹.
- Every child deserves a healthy future. Lead poisoning is entirely preventable, and testing is the first step in keeping children safe.
Get Involved
Parents, healthcare providers, and community members can all play a role in protecting children from lead exposure. Ask your child’s doctor about lead testing today. HNL Lab Medicine is committed to making lead testing accessible for all families.
Take advantage of our lead testing partnership with Northampton County or visit HNL Lab Tests Direct to conveniently purchase a test and ensure your child’s safety. Early detection promotes the best outcomes - schedule a test today and help protect your child’s future.
REFERENCE
¹ The Lead-Free Promise Project. (2022, June). Toxic Lead. Thriving PA. https://paleadfree.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/LFPP_2_pager-NORTHAMPTON_COUNTY-1.pdf.