Winning Health | Gold Coast Health Plan | Issue 3 | Winter 2022

5 Member Services: 1-888-301-1228/TTY 1-888-310-7347 Is your child at risk for blood lead poisoning? Children under 6 years of age are at greatest risk of harmful health effects from lead poisoning. Here is why: ● Their brains and nervous systems are still forming. ● They frequently crawl on floors or furniture that may contain lead dust. ● More of the lead that gets into their mouths is absorbed by their bodies. ● Much of the lead is stored in their bones. ● Lead remains in their bodies for a long time. What are common sources of lead? ● Lead-based paint. ● Lead-contaminated soil. ● Lead-contaminated dust from paint or soil. ● Take-home exposure in the dust brought home on clothing, equipment, or in a car or truck driven from work. How does lead harm a child? ● Lead exposure can harm a child’s nervous system and brain when they are still growing. ● It can lead to low blood count (anemia). ● Even small amounts of lead in the body can make it hard for children to learn, pay attention, and succeed in school. ● Higher amounts of lead exposure can damage the nervous system, kidneys, and other major organs. Very high exposure can lead to seizures or death. It is important to have your child screened for lead in their blood at 12 and 24 months of age. Ask your child’s doctor about having your child screened for lead at their next appointment. More lead poisoning prevention resources are available at www.goldcoasthealthplan.org . We’re texting you! You may get text messages from Gold Coast Health Plan (GCHP) to help you stay up to date with your health care needs. Messages may be about: ❱ Preventative care ser vices you need. ❱ A reminder to make an appointment. ❱ Information about COVID-19 vaccines. Parents and caregivers of members under 18 years of age will be sent texts for these members. You can opt out at any time. We hope you find these text messages useful in staying connected to your health care! ❱ High cholesterol can raise your risk of hear t disease, a hear t attack, or a stroke. ❱ Ask your doctor how often to get yours checked. 4. Stress your heart less. ❱ When you’re stressed, talk with a trusted friend, family member, or counselor. 5. Tend to your heart with thanks. ❱ Research shows that practicing gratitude is good medicine for your hear t and health. Sources: American Heart Association; National Institutes of Health; U.S. Department of Health and Human Services