Abstract
This paper outlines the findings of a review commissioned in response to concerns about declining attendance of young children for blood lead screening in Broken Hill, NSW. A review of the literature and feedback from the local community revealed that reasons for reduced screening attendance elsewhere can be applied here, but that any proposed response should take account of local conditions.
Redressing the declining attendance for blood lead screening will require more than raising community awareness, educating carers and enhancing the acceptability of the screening service. A whole-of-community approach to environmental lead management that goes beyond the specific responsibilities of the health sector is required.
