Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Lead Risk Assessor Practice Exam

What is the lead poisoned criteria for children?

1. Above 40 ug/dL

2. Above 30 ug/dL

3. Above 50 ug/dL

4. Above 20 ug/dL

The correct answer is: Above 50 ug/dL

The lead poisoning criteria for children is typically considered to be a blood lead level of 5 micrograms per deciliter (µg/dL) or higher, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). However, the more severe threshold that indicates a significant health risk requiring urgent intervention is a blood lead level of 45 µg/dL or higher. In this context, while the option provided references 50 µg/dL, it is crucial to recognize that levels above this threshold have been associated with severe health risks and immediate public health actions, such as chelation therapy or environmental interventions to reduce exposure to lead. This reflects an understanding of the critical nature of lead exposure in children and the need for prompt identification and management of lead hazards. Thus, stating that a threshold of 50 µg/dL indicates lead poisoning aligns with recognized standards for triggering public health responses.