The ACCLPP has two work groups. Work groups provide the ACCLPP with new and updated information about priority childhood lead poisoning prevention issues. A work group meets as necessary to accomplish its goals. A description of the current work groups follow.
Review of Evidence for Adverse Effects at Lower Blood Lead Levels Work Group
Some research findings suggest that adverse health effects from lead exposure occur at BLLs below 10 micrograms per deciliter (µg/dL). This work group is conducting a systematic review of published studies assessing possible health effects of lead in children at these lower BLLs. The work group will report its findings to the ACCLPP, which will then determine whether the findings require changes in public health policy or practice and, if so, will formulate recommendations based on the evidence.
Evidence of health effects of blood lead level < 10 µg in children - Draft February 2004 (PDF)
Why not change the blood lead level of concern at this time?
Lead and Pregnancy Work Group
Research findings suggest that prenatal exposure to lead can adversely affect child health across a wide range of maternal lead levels, as measured by blood or bone methods of analysis. A limited number of publications are available to guide the clinician regarding: 1) assessment and screening of pregnant women for lead exposure; 2) evaluation of sources of lead exposure and lead poisoning; 3) management of elevated blood lead levels in pregnant women; 4) addressing the cultural and behavioral issues influencing lead poisoning in pregnant women; and 5) recommendations for breast feeding in the face of elevated maternal lead levels.
There are currently no national recommendations that cover lead risks and management during pregnancy and lactation by any obstetric or pediatric groups. Currently, New York is the only known state to issue guidelines for lead risk assessment and screening for prenatal care providers. Other states may be considering implementation of similar guidelines, with apparently limited scientific discussion of these issues.
The Lead and Pregnancy Work Group will review the existing evidence for adverse effects of past and current maternal lead exposure on maternal fertility and on the developing fetus, infant and child in prenatal and postnatal states. The work group will then evaluate the data and issue recommendations regarding 1) prevention of lead exposure for women of child-bearing ages and pregnant women, 2) risk assessment and screening of pregnant women, 3) medical and environmental management, 4) breast feeding, and 5) follow-up of infants and children of mothers with elevated blood lead levels. It will also describe data gaps and make recommendations for further research and health education needs in this field. The work group will create, in conjunction with the committee, a summary of the evidence and recommendations for publication.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Rd, Atlanta, GA 30333, U.S.A
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