Regulations mandated by the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), Residential Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Act of 1992 (Title X), Clean Air Act (CAA), Clean Water Act (CWA), Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA), and Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) has resulted in the removal of lead from paint, gasoline, and other consumer products. Despite these regulations, lead exposure continues to harm many children each year. Lead exposure in young children can cause problems with their learning, development, and behavior. Children from low-income families and certain racial and ethnic groups are more likely to be exposed to lead. Testing for high blood lead levels and providing proper follow-up treatment, especially for children who are at high risk of exposure, is vital in preventing long-term developmental and health problems.
Organizations, such as West Anniston Foundation, located in communities are trusted partners because we:
Build strong relationships and understand the needs of our communities
Work with partners from different sectors
Provide better access to resources and services for families and children
Increase knowledge and skills related to lead poisoning
Educate the community about the risk of lead exposure and disparities in blood lead levels based on factors like race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and geography
Around 24 million homes in the U.S. have dangerous lead-based paint.
The main way children get exposed to lead is in their homes.
Up to 10 million homes have pipes that can contaminate drinking water.
Lead can come from other sources like some traditional remedies and cosmetics used in cultural practices, hobbies that use lead, and certain foods and products.