Environmental Health

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless and poisonous gas produced by the incomplete burning of fuel. CO exposure is often the result of improper ventilation or inhalation of exhaust fumes from cars and trucks, or from generators or gas heaters.

The EPHT Network contains summary information:

• Data and summary statistics for hospitalizations due to carbon monoxide exposure
• Data and summary statistics for emergency department visits due to carbon monoxide exposure.
• Data and summary statistics for deaths due to carbon monoxide exposure.
• Behavioral Risk Factor Survey of portable generator use.
• Carbon Monoxide Fact Sheet [English] [Spanish].

Lead Exposure in Children

Since 1999, the New Jersey Department of Health’ Child and Adolescent Health Program has collected data on all blood lead screenings of New Jersey children. Clinical laboratories licensed by the state are required to report these data to the state.

In cooperation with the Child and Adolescent Health Program, the NJ EPHT Network contains summary information on risk factors for childhood lead exposure (age of housing stock and extent of poverty in communities), childhood lead screening rates, and levels of lead measured in children’s blood.

Lead exposure and risk factors:

• Age of Housing Stock 
• Potential Lead Exposure Mapping by Parcel (NJDEP)
• Children Living in Poverty
• Elevated Blood Lead Levels in Children

Lead Exposure in Adults

Among adults, lead poisoning is primarily a preventable occupational health problem. Lead exposure in adults can cause anemia, nervous system dysfunction, kidney problems, hypertension, decreased fertility, and miscarriage. The NJ Occupational Health Surveillance Program maintains information on the incidence and prevalence rates of elevated blood lead levels among New Jersey adults.

Lead exposure and risk factors:

• Elevated Blood Lead Levels in Adults

More Information About Lead Exposure

More information about childhood lead exposure and prevention is available through New Jersey’s Family Health Line at 1-800-328-3838 or at Child and Adolescent Health Program. The Child and Adolescent Health Program publishes an Annual Report on Childhood Lead Poisoning in New Jersey.  Additional information regarding lead in drinking water can be found through the NJ Department of Environmental Protection Division of Water Supply and Geoscience.