I am interested in the prevention of childhood lead poisoning in Jefferson County, KY.

I am currently engaged in two research projects that are aimed at addressing this issue: 

1. My first project is assessing the magnitude of lead in both soil and paint found on properties in the northwest corner of Jefferson County. To carry out this research, I have an agreement with Metro Government to lead test paint and soil samples taken from abandoned residential properties owned by the city (landbank properties). I am also evaluating the spatial correlation between childhood lead poisoning and the results of this research. 
   2. I am also working with the March of Dimes, Family Health Centers, and the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness (LMPHW) on a project that evaluates blood lead levels in pregnant people at their first prenatal visit. Early results of this project indicate that 10% of pregnant people have clinically meaningful blood lead levels during their first trimester. I will use this study as pilot data for a national level grant that further explores this issue.

My community partners include: Metro United Way (Ready for K Alliance), March of Dimes, Family Health Centers, LMPHW, Lock Up Lead, HUD, and the Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program (CLPPP).