Since we use these stories as a resource for multiple requests, don’t restrict Success Stories only to traditional Extension appointments and activities. Any accomplishments and efforts that are noteworthy may be included.

Many West Louisville residents continue to struggle with health issues that can be contributed to low income, lack of sufficient housing, transportation, and access to healthy food and medical services. One issue that I’ve become more interested in, is the historically high lead levels in the blood of children that live in the neighborhoods that are part of my UEI Fellows Research. Although my work doesn’t include residential indoor environment (paint) it does include vacant lots that were demolished that had lead paint covering the interior surface of the structure. Lead paint residue, during demolition, can travel several feet to more than 100 feet depending on environmental conditions. 

Because of my work with vacant lot soil contamination, I’ve been asked to share my data (although preliminary) with Louisville Metro Health Services and researchers at UL School of Public Health where Epidemiologists are conducting research on environmental lead exposure and high levels of blood lead levels in children. My role is to share data and educational materials that focus on soil lead contamination immediately around the home and gardens. 

Researchers from UL’s School of Public Health, and Epidemiologists from Louisville Metro Health Services will also be collecting data on childhood blood lead levels to determine a correlation between the interior/exterior lead exposure by children and their blood lead levels.

Determining the source and levels of lead prior to the exposure time may offset the negative impacts that lead may have on children and women that are/or will become pregnant.