National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week

This week, the week of 23-29 October, is being observed as National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week.

This year HUD, EPA, and CDC will be posting social media messages corresponding to daily themes:

• Monday: Why Should I Be Concerned About Lead?
• Tuesday: How Do I Know if There is Lead in My Home?
• Wednesday: How Do I Know if There is Lead in My Drinking Water?
• Thursday: How Do I Know if My Child Has Been Exposed to Lead?
• Friday: How Can I Make Sure My Child Has Safe Crawls?

Childhood lead poisoning is considered one of the most preventable environmental disease among young children. However, an estimated 250,000 U.S. children have elevated blood-lead levels. A simple blood test can prevent permanent damage that will last a lifetime.

During National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week , the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) strives to:

• raise awareness about lead poisoning,
• stress the importance of screening the highest risk children younger than six years of age (preferably by ages one and two) if they have not been tested yet,
• highlight efforts to prevent childhood lead poisoning, and
• urge people to take steps to reduce lead exposure.

During this week, a number of states and communities offer free blood-lead testing and conduct various education and awareness events.

Background information:

CDC: National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week

U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week

CDC: Lead Poisoning Prevention Tips

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development: Office of Lead Hazard Control and Healthy Homes