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Lead Testing

Sunday, September 21, 2025
2-6 p.m.
Bridge Center Library
9928 Grand River Ave.
Detroit, MI 48204

Lead testing is being conducted as part of the Adult Sickle Cell Wellness Encounter. Testing is open to everyone aged 1 and up. You do not have to have sickle cell disease or trait for lead testing. If you aren't participating in the Wellness Encounter or if you're bringing a child (ages 17 and under), please complete the form below to sign up.

Why is lead testing important?

Lead exposure can happen in many ways and swallowing lead can cause an array of serious problems, especially for children. These can include issues related to learning, behavior, speech, hearing, growth rates, and development of the nervous system. (Source: Michigan Department of Health and Human Services)

Who is at risk of lead exposure?

Source: Michigan Department of Health and Human Services

People who live in homes built before 1978, especially children.

Children are most at risk because they:

Eat and drink more based on their body size when compared to adults.
Breathe at faster rates when compared to adults.
Absorb 4-5 times more of the lead they swallow than adults.
May be missing key nutrients in their body, such as calcium and iron – so their body mistakenly keeps lead in place of healthy nutrients.
Often put their hands in their mouths.
Sometimes chew on toys and other household objects and furniture that may contain lead.

Fetuses and nursing babies are also at risk because lead can pass through the placenta to the fetus when the mother is exposed. Lead can also pass through breast milk to a nursing baby when the mother is exposed. Note, the benefits of breastfeeding are usually greater than these risks, though. Talk to your healthcare provider to determine what is best for you and your baby.

People with pica.

Pica is the craving to eat nonfood items, such as dirt, paint chips, and clay. Pica is most common in 1- and 2-year old children and usually goes away as they get older. Pica has also been observed in adults, especially pregnant women. Pica is sometimes a result of a nutritional shortage, such as iron-deficiency anemia.

People who have jobs or hobbies working with lead.

People who work with lead could track it home if proper measures are not taken to stop that from happening. Your employer should inform you if lead is in use at your workplace. Common hobbies that may use lead include stained glass making, hunting, and fishing. Visit Jobs and Hobbies to learn more.