Chemistry student Jamie Yost displays an imported jewelry item that will be tested for lead at Ashland University in Ashland, Ohio. Ashland University researchers reported finding high levels of toxic lead in toy jewelry imported from China. (Mark Duncan/Associated Press)

Health Canada is urging parents to get rid of children's jewelry if they suspect it contains lead, in light of voluntary recalls for certain jewelry products in recent weeks.

It says high levels of lead continue to be found in a wide variety of jewelry products sold in Canada, and kids can ingest harmful amounts if they chew, suck on or swallow the items.

In addition, the agency advises that cadmium, a carcinogen, is sometimes being substituted for lead, and this too presents a health concern.

Adult jewelry may also contain lead, so it shouldn't be given to children to wear or play with.

Health Canada says caregivers who think a child has sucked regularly on jewelry that might contain lead or cadmium should ask their doctor to do a blood test for lead or other heavy metals.

It says swallowing such an item could cause severe lead poisoning.