Voice Box Scripts - 13568
(The exhibit has four voice boxes that speak to the visitor)
Fifth Panel (Second Voice Box): Hi, I'm Doctor Gray. I'm glad you came to my office because I want to talk with you about how lead hurts young children. If you have children who are one to six years old, you need to get them tested for lead. Most kids get tested near their first birthday and again near their second birthday. Your doctor will determine your child's risk of lead poisoning based on your answers to a list of lead questions. Our bodies do not need lead, but because lead is everywhere, we all have some in our blood and bones. A child who is poisoned with lead may not show any obvious symptoms and yet it could result in permanent brain damage or even death. Many children who have been lead poisoned have difficulty learning and getting along with other children. As a result, lead poisoned children are seven times more likely to quit school than those that are not poisoned. The good news is that you can find out if your child is poisoned with lead, but only if you get them tested regularly. The test is simple, a sample of blood will be taken and tested for lead. It is up to you to make sure your child gets tested. Some doctors do the test in their office. Others will send you to the lab where you can get them tested. It's very important to get your child tested as ordered by the doctor.
