Study to test lead levels in St. John's kids

Researchers will test lead levels in St. John's children this summer after a preliminary study found high levels of lead in older homes and soil in parts of the city.

Researchers with Eastern Health, the province's largest health authority, and with Memorial University plan to recruit 200 families in May and June to take part in the study, which will take place through July and August.

Trevor Bell, a Memorial University geography professor, said children are the key to connecting blood/lead levels with environmental exposure. Bell found elevated levels of lead in a 2003 study in downtown St. John's.

"There are lots of communities in Atlantic Canada that have a legacy of old clapboard-painted houses and coal-burning, especially," Bell said.

"I think it's important information for people to understand their environment."

Researchers will be going door-to-door to look for volunteers.

"Previous research established that we do have lead in our environment from past use of leaded gasoline, paints and coal. We also know children are more vulnerable to harm from lead exposure," said Dr. David Allison, medical officer of health for Eastern Health.

St. John's parent Jennifer Newhook said she would gladly enlist.

"It's a concern — any time there's toxic elements in your youngster's blood, you want to know about it, and you want to do something about it," she told CBC News.