We are excited to share the latest version of our Blood Lead Testing and Response Plan (BLTP). Updated every two years by the Nevada Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program (NvCLPPP), the BLTP serves as a practical guide to help prevent lead exposure and ensure appropriate follow-up when there is a lead exposure case.
Despite federal and state requirements, Nevada remains one of the lowest blood lead testing states in the country. Fewer than 3% of Nevada’s 215,000 children under age six were tested between October 2022 and September 2023. This is especially concerning, as lead exposure often has no symptoms but can cause lasting harm to a child’s development, learning, and behavior.
What you will find in the 2025 BLTP:
- Blood lead testing requirements under the Medicaid policy, which mandates testing at 12 and 24 months, and at least once between 24–72 months if no prior test is documented
- Reporting requirements per NRS 442.700, which requires all blood lead test results to be reported to the appropriate local health authority
- A new and improved Lead Risk Questionnaire for Children that helps pediatricians identify if a child may need a blood lead test.
- A Lead Risk Questionnaire for Pregnant and Lactating Persons that helps providers identify if a pregnant or lactating person may need a blood lead test.
- CDC-aligned guidance for follow-up testing and case management based on blood lead levels in children and pregnant persons
- A ZIP code-based Lead Exposure Risk Index (LERI) to help identify areas in Nevada with higher potential risk of lead exposure
Whether you are a healthcare provider, public health professional, or educator, the BLTP is a practical reference for making informed decisions, coordinating care, and supporting prevention. It is designed to be easy to use and helpful in your work protecting Nevada’s children and families from lead exposure.
You can explore or download the full BLTP. Questions or suggestions for future updates? We would love to hear from you at nvclppp@unlv.edu.