Sunday, Oct 23, 2022

GLCAC Raising Awareness of Lead Poisoning & Prevention

The Merrimack Valley Lead Poisoning Prevention Program will be highlighting National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week by educating the public about the dangers of lead exposure in children.

This year, National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week will run from Oct. 23 to Oct. 29.

“Our goal is to raise awareness of lead poisoning, highlight preventative steps families can take and provide resources available in the community,” said Evelyn Friedman, Executive Director of the Greater Lawrence Community Action Council, Inc. The MVLPPP is a program under GLCAC.

Most lead poisoning cases in Massachusetts are related to lead paint and dust in home built before 1978. When lead paint peels and cracks, it creates paint chips and dust. Lead dust can also come from: opening and closing old windows; and repairs or renovations in older homes. Once airborne, children can inhale lead dust. It also collects on surfaces, like floors and toys, and gets into the body when a child puts objects in their mouth.

Even low levels of lead can permanently damage the brain, kidneys, and nervous system; slow growth and development; damage hearing and speech; and cause learning and behavioral problems.

Children should be tested at ages 1, 2, 3, and 4 years old. Lead testing is available at your pediatrician’s office, and at family/community health centers. 

For more information, call the MVLPPP at 978-681-4940.

GLCAC is a multi-faceted social services agency that assists 33,000 individuals through a range of programs including early childhood education, fuel assistance, WIC nutrition assistance, immigration services, lead poisoning prevention, child abuse prevention, English-language lessons, and workforce training.