The knowledge and role of wic nutritionists regarding lead poisoning in children

Abstract

The Public Health Service challenges health care providers and human service agencies to reduce the incidence of lead poisoning in children by the year 2010. The knowledge and involvement of health caregivers on lead poisoning issues in children have not been documented. The purpose of this study was to assess the knowledge and involvement of WIC Nutritionists in lead screening and counselling of children with lead poisoning. A survey was mailed to 388 WIC nutritionists in Pennsylvania and Virginia, 236 (61%) usable responses were received. Respondents were grouped according to demographics, the residence of the majority of their clients, the report of lead screening programs in their communities, and their level of involvement with affected children. Analysis revealed that 55% of the respondents reported that their communities had lead screening programs. Of those who reported lead screening programs, 74% had a follow-up program and 46% said that their follow-up included nutrition counselling. Scores on a knowledge test were analyzed with t-tests and Analysis of Variance. Sixty-three percent of the respondents had basic knowledge on issues of lead poisoning. Demographic variables did not significantly influence the respondents' performance. Nutritionists who reported a follow-up program and nutrition counselling for affected children performed significantly better (p<.05) than groups who did not have these programs. Therefore, nutritionists directly involved in treatment of lead poisoning were more knowledgeable about lead poisoning issues. With the re-emergence of lead poisoning as a public health issue, emphasis on this health issue needs to be addressed in nutrition education.