FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT:
October 26, 2015 Melaney
Arnold – 217-558-0500
Childhood
Lead Poisoning Prevention Week
October 25-31, 2015
October 25-31, 2015
SPRINGFIELD - – Governor
Bruce Rauner has issued a proclamation declaring that Illinois will observe
National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, October 25-31,
2015. The Illinois Department of Public
Health joins Governor Rauner, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to build
awareness around the hazards of lead poisoning during this week of observance. Lead
poisoning occurs most often from exposure to lead-contaminated dust created by
deteriorating lead-based paint. In
addition, other lead-containing products may also lead to exposure and result
in life-long negative effects.
Illinois Department of Public Health Director, Nirav D.
Shah, M.D., J.D., wants all Illinoisans to be aware that exposure to lead
remains a serious health concern. “Given
the many health and developmental problems that can occur in children exposed
to lead, it is imperative that we build awareness and take the appropriate
precautions,” he said.
In 2014, Illinois identified approximately 18,500 Illinois
children with blood lead levels greater than the intervention level recommended
by CDC. IDPH is pleased to join with
health care professionals, agencies, and their delegates in efforts to reduce
lead poisoning in children by:
- Raising awareness about lead poisoning;
- Stressing the importance of testing the highest-risk children 6 years of age and younger (preferably by ages 1 and 2) if they have not been tested yet;
- Highlighting partners' efforts to prevent childhood lead poisoning; and
- Urging people to take steps to reduce lead exposure.
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