Computer mapping software is useful for getting quick directions over the Internet, but Geographical Information Systems could prove lifesaving.

GIS is a software program that graphically illustrates data on a map, and it is used by Richmond and Columbia counties for a variety of reasons, including planning, utilities work and dispatching emergency services.

On Wednesday, state health officials outlined their plans for using GIS maps to determine which of Richmond County's children are most at risk for lead poisoning, a potentially life-threatening condition. The presentation was part of GIS Day at Augusta State University.

"A lot of physicians are under the impression that lead poisoning isn't a problem anymore," said Anil Mangla, epidemiologist for the Georgia Department of Human Resources.

Dr. Mangla said the real problem is that the children most at risk aren't being tested for lead poisoning.

He and Forrest Staley, program director of Georgia Lead Poisoning Prevention Programs, analyzed GIS maps for central Atlanta and found this to be the case by comparing databases with the ages of houses, house values, where children live and which children have been tested for lead poisoning.

"These children are at a high risk and nothing is being done," Dr. Mangla said he recalled thinking about the finding. "Without GIS, without the picture, this point is not getting across."

Dr. Mangla and Mr. Staley are preparing to pilot an extensive study of Richmond County to better determine which children are most at risk for lead poisoning so they can be treated early.

Last week, a child was treated for lead poisoning at Medical College of Georgia Hospital and Clinics, Dr. Mangla said. The child had swallowed his mother's pendant.

"If we had not identified this child, this child should have died," he said.

Mr. Staley said the GIS maps have already assisted in making Georgia's children safer. The Georgia General Assembly amended the law this year so that state officials have greater authority in forcing landlords to perform lead abatement.

Lawmakers were convinced of the need to make the change when GIS maps of their respective districts were presented to them detailing the problem, he said.

Reach Greg Gelpi at (706) 828-3851 or greg.gelpi@augustachronicle.com.