GENEVA, 19 Oct. - (ANA) - The thirteenth International Lead Poisoning Prevention Week (ILPPW) will take place from 19-25 October 2025 in Geneva.

 

The focus of this year’s campaign “No safe level: act now to end lead exposure” reminds us of the unacceptable risks of lead exposure and the need for action to protect children's health. The campaign builds on the success in banning the use of lead in petrol and the progress achieved by many countries in establishing laws or regulations that limit the use of lead in paint, particularly those children are exposed to in their homes, schools, and playgrounds. This webpage provides advocacy materials and technical guidance to support campaigners in organizing events during the week of action and an events registration page where campaigners can showcase their events during the week. 

 

Global commitments to address lead poisoning has been bolstered by a new Bloomberg Philanthropies Lead Poisoning Prevention Initiative. WHO will be working with partners to: 

 

Develop a comprehensive technical package on lead poisoning prevention; Support country-level implementation of the WHO Guideline for clinical management of exposure to lead in some of the highest-need countries in Asia, Africa, and South America;Assess and strengthen the capacity of poison centres to detect and manage cases of lead poisoning; and Develop and disseminate communication and training materials for health professionals and the general public to recognize the risks and sources of lead exposure   

 

 

 

 

Lead is found in many everyday products such as paint and cosmetics, but that doesn’t make it safe.

 

The World Health Organization (WHO) on Friday issued an update in advance of International Lead Poisoning Prevention Week running from 19 to 25 October, saying that lead exposure remains one of the world’s most widespread but preventable health threats.

 

 

 

 

According to WHO, the metal is linked to approximately 1.5 million deaths annually, primarily from cardiovascular disease, and causes irreversible neurological and behavioural damage, especially in children, who more easily absorb lead.

 

While some progress has been made, including a ban on lead in petrol and efforts by many countries to limit lead in paints, WHO says that comprehensive bans on the production, import, sale and use of lead-based paints must be implemented and strictly enforced.

 

“No level of lead is safe. Every child deserves a future free from this poison,” said Ruediger Krech, director of the agency’s environment, climate change and migration department.

 

“We call on governments, communities, and healthcare providers to act decisively to eliminate lead exposure and protect the health and potential of the next generation,” he added. - (ANA) -

 

AB/ANA/19 October 2025 - - -