Monroe County reports an increase in childhood lead testing and exposure for 2024 as officials expand outreach and prevention programs across the community

Monroe County, New York – Monroe County officials released new data on childhood lead testing and exposure, revealing both progress and continuing challenges in protecting children from one of the most preventable environmental health hazards. The Monroe County Department of Public Health announced that 13,582 children were tested for lead poisoning in 2024, marking a 6% increase from 12,788 children in 2023. While testing has expanded, the county also saw a rise in the number of children with elevated blood lead levels — 299 cases in 2024, compared to 241 cases the year before.

Health experts say this increase does not necessarily indicate that more children are being poisoned but rather that the county’s improved outreach and broader screening efforts are identifying more cases that might have previously gone undetected. Many of the newly tested families, officials noted, were those who may not have had consistent access to healthcare or lead testing before moving to Monroe County.

According to New York State law, all children must be tested for lead exposure at ages 1 and 2, with continued screening for at-risk children up to age 6. Lead poisoning can interfere with brain development and lead to long-term learning and behavioral issues. The greatest risks remain in older homes built before 1978, when lead-based paint was still widely used. As paint deteriorates over time, it can release lead dust that young children may ingest through normal hand-to-mouth activity.

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“Lead exposure can harm a child’s growth, learning and long-term health, but it is preventable,” said Monroe County Commissioner of Public Health, Dr. Marielena Vélez De Brown. “Because most children with lead poisoning do not show symptoms at first, testing is an essential step to protect their health and connect families with support early. We also know that the safest homes are ones where lead hazards — like peeling paint or older plumbing — are fixed before children are exposed. We encourage families, landlords and neighbors to learn about lead safety and simple steps they can take to help keep children healthy.”

Of the 299 children with elevated blood lead levels in 2024, 230 had levels between 5 and 9.9 micrograms per deciliter (μg/dL), a range that can still harm a child’s cognitive development even without visible symptoms. Thirty-five children recorded levels between 10 and 14.9 μg/dL, while 14 tested between 15 and 19.9 μg/dL. The remaining 20 children were found with levels above 20 μg/dL, a range considered dangerous and often requiring medical treatment such as chelation therapy to remove lead from the bloodstream.

To better interpret these numbers, county officials included a detailed explanation of what elevated lead levels mean. Even at the lowest range — 5 to 9.9 μg/dL — children may experience subtle developmental effects. At 10 to 14.9 μg/dL, the risks increase, often leading to learning difficulties or behavioral changes. Levels between 15 and 19.9 μg/dL demand immediate environmental assessment to remove lead hazards, while readings of 20 μg/dL and higher require urgent medical and environmental intervention.

The Department of Public Health continues to work closely with the Coalition to Prevent Lead Poisoning (CPLP), a community organization dedicated to ending childhood lead exposure through education, advocacy, and outreach. Together, the county and the coalition focus on ensuring safe housing conditions, raising awareness among property owners, and helping families navigate remediation programs when hazards are found.

“We know what works to prevent lead poisoning, and we must continue doing it together,” said Clare Henrie, director of the Coalition to Prevent Lead Poisoning. “This data reminds us that testing, safe housing and community awareness are essential to protecting children. Every child in Monroe County deserves a healthy home and a bright future free from the harms of lead exposure.”

Public health officials are also urging parents and caregivers to take proactive measures to safeguard their homes and children. Families can reduce exposure by testing their children at the required ages, checking for peeling or chipping paint, and keeping living areas clean by frequently mopping floors and wiping down windowsills to control lead dust. During home renovations, families should always follow lead-safe work practices, especially in older properties.

The county also advises parents to remain cautious about toys, jewelry, and imported products, as some may contain lead-based materials or coatings. In past years, recalls have included items such as imported children’s jewelry, painted toys, and ceramic dishware.

To make testing more accessible, Monroe County has continued outreach programs targeting high-risk neighborhoods and families with limited healthcare access. These programs include mobile testing clinics, public education campaigns, and partnerships with local healthcare providers to ensure compliance with state testing laws.

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Officials emphasize that while progress has been made, lead exposure remains a persistent concern that requires community-wide effort. Even small improvements in detection can make a significant difference in a child’s health outcome. Early intervention often includes home inspections, nutritional guidance, and connection to county resources to eliminate sources of exposure before they worsen.

Parents and property owners can learn more about prevention strategies by visiting www.health.ny.gov/environmental/lead, the Monroe County Lead Poisoning Prevention Program, or theleadcoalition.org. These resources provide guidance on identifying hazards, accessing free or low-cost home inspections, and obtaining support for remediation.

Monroe County officials say they will continue to expand their lead prevention initiatives and outreach in 2025, building on the lessons learned from this year’s data. Their goal remains clear: to ensure that every child in the county grows up in a safe, healthy environment — free from the invisible dangers of lead exposure.

As Dr. Vélez De Brown emphasized, the path forward relies on awareness, testing, and action. Preventing lead poisoning, she noted, is not just about numbers — it’s about giving every child a fair start in life.