Protecting US Children From Lead Exposures: Applications of a Data-Mapping Blueprint for Focusing High-Impact Interventions.

Authors

Valerie Zartarian, Alan Walts, Carol Ann Gross-Davis, Antonios Poulakos, Kathy Triantafillou, Kristi Rea Simoneau, Nicholas Spalt, Chloe Durand, Shayna Sellars, Maxwell Kromer, Alexa Burnett, Rashad Taylor, Colleen Neely, Thomas Speth, Nichole Kulikowski, Veronica Helms Garrison, Peter Han, Rogelio Tornero-Velez, Lindsay Wichers Stanek

Published in

American journal of public health. Volume 116. Issue 7. Pages 1030-1037.

Abstract

Objectives. To describe a data-mapping blueprint for identifying US locations at high risk for childhood lead exposure and to apply this approach to inform targeted public health interventions. Methods. We developed a stepwise, flexible blueprint integrating environmental and housing data, blood lead level data, and geospatial mapping to identify potential lead exposure hotspots, characterize contributing sources, and guide intervention prioritization. We applied the blueprint in multiple federal and state case studies through interagency collaboration. Results. Application of the blueprint identified high-risk locations for childhood lead exposure and informed targeted actions across diverse contexts. In data-rich settings, integration of blood lead level and environmental data enabled identification of exposure hotspots and prioritization of outreach, enforcement, and remediation. In data-limited settings, lead exposure indices and environmental indicators supported targeted surveillance and resource allocation. Across applications, the blueprint facilitated coordination among agencies, improved lead-based paint and infrastructure intervention targeting, and supported expansion of screening and prevention efforts. Conclusions. A coordinated, data-driven mapping approach can improve identification of lead exposure hotspots and support prioritization of impactful interventions. Public Health Implications. Broader implementation of the blueprint, along with enhanced data integration and interagency collaboration, may strengthen efforts to reduce childhood lead exposures and improve public health outcomes. (Am J Public Health. 2026;116(7):1030-1037. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2026.308440).

PMID:
42308443
Bibliographic data and abstract were imported from PubMed on 18 Jun 2026.

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