IGA offers lead screenings for kids

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTHI) - Children living in a house that was built before 1978 could be at risk for lead poisoning.

The Locust Street IGA in Terre Haute held free lead screenings all day. Information was available for parents about the risks of lead poisoning.

High levels of lead can effect a child's development. Lead can be found all around the house, in pipes, peeling paint, old furniture and bare soil.

"Some of the signs of lead poisoning include abdominal pain, irritability, more serious side effects are seizures that may take them to the emergency room," assistant professor of nursing at Indiana State University Gloria Plascak said.

The CDC estimates that more than 300,000 children in the United States have elevated blood levels due to lead poisoning.