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HEALTH Lead Poisoning Lead poisoning is the foremost preventable environmental health risk to young children. Swallowing or breathing lead dust can result in behavioral problems, reduced IQ, damage to the brain and nervous system and even death. Philadelphia's Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program, begun in 1960, has been nationally recognized as one of the most effective programs in the United States for increasing public awareness of the dangers posed by lead. The program combats lead poisoning through aggressive screening to identify children exposed to lead and to reduce further exposure. For families of children with elevated blood lead levels, Department of Public Health community health workers conduct home visits to discuss the dangers of lead and demonstrate and assist with lead dust cleanup. The program also provides public education and prevention activities throughout Philadelphia. |
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