JAMESTOWN, NY – Chautauqua County will join communities around the nation in recognizing National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week (NLPPW) with a press conference on Monday, October 20, 2025, at 1 p.m. at the Jamestown City Hall Lobby.
Observed annually in mid-October, National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week was established in 1999 and is a collaboration between the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to raise awareness about lead poisoning and prevent childhood exposure. The observance highlights the risks of lead from sources like old paint and dust, provides resources for families and caregivers, and encourages preventive actions like testing homes and children.
Lead poisoning continues to be a significant public health concern in Chautauqua County. On average, 60 children annually in the county have been diagnosed with elevated blood lead levels exceeding New York State’s action level of 5 micrograms per deciliter. An additional 10–20 children test just below that threshold each year—still at risk for serious developmental and health impacts.
Although anyone can be affected by lead exposure, young children under six are especially vulnerable due to their developing brains and nervous systems. Lead poisoning can lead to learning disabilities, behavior issues, hearing loss, slowed growth, and other serious long-term consequences.
The event will be live-streamed on Chautauqua County’s YouTube page, and a recording will be made available for those unable to attend in person.
We invite residents to Step Out for Lead Poisoning Prevention in our community.
