There is no safe level of lead exposure
Lead exposure is dangerous for young children. Lead impacts learning and behavior and children are most at risk because their bodies absorb lead more easily and their brains are still developing. Learn more about common sources of lead and what you can do to protect children from lead exposure: lead awareness infographic.
Current Minnesota guidelines recommend universal testing for every child at around both 1 and 2 years of age and targeted blood lead testing for children under 18 years of age. Learn more: Minnesota childhood blood lead screening guidelines. Before 2022, Minnesota's screening guidelines recommended targeted blood lead testing for children that had risk factors for lead exposure.
Elevated blood lead levels (EBLLs) are defined here as 5+ mcg/dL. In 2023, the definition of an EBLL was lowered to 3.5 mcg/dL in Minnesota and will be reflected here in the future.
For more information on childhood lead exposure, see the MDH Lead & Healthy Homes Program's home page.