Lead exposure of people with developmental disabilities: success of control measures.

In a developmental center, blood lead level was determined by atomic absorption for individuals who were admitted, discharged, or had pica. In 1977, blood lead level was 0 to 29 ug/dL in 298 (92%), 30 to 49 ug/dL in 20 (6%), and 50 to 79 ug/dL in 5 (2%) of the 323 individuals screened. In contrast, in 1994, blood lead level was 0 to 4 ug/dL in 58 (88%) and 5 to 9 ug/dL in 8 (12%) of 66 individuals screened. The observed marked decline in blood lead levels in this population has been the result of effective pica management, several local lead abatement measures, and reduced environmental lead contamination. Medical Practice Guidelines are suggested for prevention of lead poisoning in developmental centers.