National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week: Health officials aim to raise awareness

By: CBS 58 Newsroom

Posted: Oct 23, 2023 5:26 PM CDT

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Sunday, Oct. 22, marked the start of National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week.

On Monday, the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) is raising awareness to lead exposure in our state.

DHS says Wisconsin has more than 3,600 cases of lead poisoning reported annually.

Many children are at risk, but those living in poverty or who lived in housing before 1978 have the greatest risk.

“Every child deserves a healthy start in life.” said State Health Officer Paula Tran. “Each year in Wisconsin, thousands of children have their futures put at risk because of lead exposure and poisoning. We know that there is no safe blood lead level in children, so it is critical that we work together to prevent lead exposure.”

Milwaukee city officials recommend all children six and under should be tested for lead.

For more information, click here.