Q: What can I do to protect my family from lead exposure? Should I have my children tested?

A: Protecting children from exposure to lead is important to lifelong good health. Even low levels of lead in the blood have been shown to affect IQ, ability to pay attention and academic achievement.

The most important step that parents, pediatricians and others can take is to prevent lead exposure before it occurs. Here are some simple steps to reduce lead exposure in your home:

— Talk to your local health department about testing paint and dust in your home for lead if you live in a home built before 1978.