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Lead Poisioning Prevention Week -- Partnering for Prevention in October
Release Date: 10/16/2003
Contact Information:
Dave Deegan 617-918-1017 / deegan.dave@epa.gov
(10/16/03) The fifth annual Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, to be held this year between Oct. 19-25, will include participation across the U.S. by various federal, state and local governments and non-profit organizations that share the goal of preventing lead poisoning in children. This year’s theme is “Partnering for Prevention,” emphasizing to parents the large number of lead poisoning prevention resources across the country. With lead poisoning rates still high in many U.S. cities, EPA is partnering with other government agencies and organizations to highlight the importance of lead poisoning prevention. Events being held across the country include free blood-lead tests for children, opportunities for education and outreach to families such as health fairs and workshops on lead education and safety. Low-level lead poisoning, due to the existence of lead paint in older homes, continues to be a concern for as many as three million American children under the age of six. Children are especially susceptible to lead poisoning since they are more likely to ingest lead paint and are more sensitive to the effects of lead. Elevated blood lead levels in young children can trigger learning disabilities, decreased growth, hyperactivity, impaired hearing and even brain damage. To learn more about Lead Poisoning Prevention Week activities, contact a local health department or call 1-800-424-LEAD. Information is also available on EPA’s website at: https://www.epa.gov/lead/ .
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