About
Explore how Wisconsin's collaborative initiative for universal blood lead testing transformed public health efforts, leading to a remarkable increase in testing rates and early detection of lead exposure among children.
Wisconsin Implements Universal Blood Lead Testing in 2024
In response to alarmingly low childhood lead testing rates in Wisconsin, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and a significant recall of testing supplies, the Wisconsin Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program (WI CLPPP) took decisive action to improve testing rates. On January 1, 2024, Wisconsin implemented universal blood lead testing recommendations for all children, at ages 1 and 2, as well as for those ages 3 to 5, who had not previously been tested. This initiative marked a significant shift in public health policy aimed at increasing awareness and accessibility to blood lead testing.
In 2023, WI CLPPP began the process of achieving universal blood lead testing for the state through partnerships. Confusion surrounding screening guidelines—stemming from conflicting policies at various governmental levels—left many children untested for lead exposure. To address these barriers, WI CLPPP collaborated with a state lead policy advisor and engaged local public health partners and healthcare providers through listening sessions, focus groups, and surveys, to gather insights on the challenges faced with blood lead testing. Additionally, they collaborated with the Division of Public Health administrators within the Department of Health Services to implement universal blood lead testing for all Wisconsin children between ages 1 to 5 years old.
The results of the partnership and universal blood lead testing were significant. By the end of 2024, over 95,000 children under six had received a blood lead test which was a 26% increase from the previous year. Notably, this increase was most pronounced among two-year-olds, who experienced a 27% increase in blood lead testing rates between 2023 and 2024. With ongoing promotional efforts planned for early 2025 to sustain momentum, Wisconsin is making substantial strides toward ensuring healthier futures for its youngest residents by prioritizing early detection of lead exposure.