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childhood lead poisoning prevention branch

Updated CDC Blood Lead Reference Value

​The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced a change in its blood lead reference value (BLRV) from 5 micrograms per deciliter (mcg/dL) to 3.5 mcg/dL on October 28, 2021. The CDC BLRV is used to identify children with higher levels of lead in their blood compared to most children.

For more information:

Statement from CLPPB

CDPH plans to adopt the new CDC BLRV of 3.5 mcg/dL. CDPH is working to procure the required resources to implement CDC’s new BLRV. CDPH will update California Management Guidelines and other required documents to reflect this change. CDPH will also be using the new BLRV to prioritize communities with the most need for primary prevention of exposure and evaluate the effectiveness of prevention efforts.

Information for California Health Care Providers

​​The new CDC BLRV at which healthcare providers are recommended to provide follow-up is 3.5 mcg/dL, and CDPH encourages healthcare providers to provide retesting and follow-up for blood lead levels ≥ 3.5 mcg/dL.

For more information:

 
This page will be updated as implementation of CDC’s new BLRV in California progresses.

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