Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Week | October 24–30, 2021

Lead poisoning can permanently impair a child’s intellectual and social development, and there is no known safe blood-lead level for individuals of any age. Until it was banned in 1978, lead was commonly used in household paint and gasoline. Children living in housing that was built before the ban can be exposed to dangerous levels of lead from old paint—and from contamination of soil and dust by old leaded gasoline. What’s more, children receiving services from government-assisted health programs are also considered to be at risk for exposure, and many of these kids have not been tested for lead. 

The Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Week is an annual event that was created to bring awareness to this important health concern and to provide needed information for families. This year’s campaign is being observed throughout California October 24–30 and features the message, “Even small amounts of lead can harm a child’s health. Ask your child’s doctor about a blood lead test.” 

Free Event Webinar Series
During Lead Week 2021, the Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Branch (CLPPB) is hosting an informative webinar series, which highlights vital lead poisoning prevention work taking place throughout the state. Every weekday during Lead Week, a webinar session will be offered for each group the Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program serves, including local health jurisdiction programs, healthcare providers, childcare providers, parents and communities, and environmental professionals. All sessions are free and open to the public. For session summaries and registration links, be sure to visit CLPPB’s Lead Week 2021. 

Year-Round Lead Prevention Assistance

To learn more about this important topic at any time throughout the year, please contact your local health department’s Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program. 

County of Sonoma
Department of Health Services, Public Health Division
Program Office (800) 427-8982
Lead Assessor/Inspector (707) 565-6565
https://sonomacounty.ca.gov/Health/Environmental-Health/Healthy-Homes/Childhood-Lead-Poisoning-Prevention/