Faulty Lead Tests Harm Children in Australia?

Concerns are mounting over the continued use of the LeadCare II blood lead testing device in Broken Hill, Australia, despite global recalls due to its potential for inaccurately low readings. This point-of-care testing equipment, designed for immediate results from a finger prick, has been a subject of scrutiny since at least April 2018. The Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) suspended and later removed the system from its register in 2020, citing risks of false negatives. Despite this, a special arrangement allows its continued use in the far west local health district.

Internal NSW Health documents reveal that some stakeholders using the LeadCare II were unaware of its revoked status, leading to concerns about the validity of past testing. Even as the screening machine is considered 'end of life,' health officials like Brad Astill, chief executive of the Far West local health district, argue that the benefits of point-of-care testing outweigh the risks, with results intended as indicators for more formal testing. Meridian Bioscience, the manufacturer, claims the issue was a packaging problem that has been mitigated, but the TGA has not received data to support its reinstatement.

Further complicating the situation are allegations that follow-up support for children identified with elevated blood lead levels is insufficient. Families report receiving basic advice and limited home remediation, even when test results exceed national guidelines. The NSW government acknowledges ongoing action is needed in Broken Hill to manage lead levels, particularly for children, through a dedicated Environmental Lead Response Group. However, a recent report indicates that improvements in reducing environmental lead levels and community exposure have slowed.