Westchester Identifies 128 Children with New Lead Exposure

WHITE PLAINS, NY (October 18, 2025) — The Westchester County Department of Health identified 128 children with new lead exposures, between September 2024 to September 2025, a decrease from 184 the previous year. The County Health Department is currently monitoring 236 children. Nationally, the CDC reports that approximately 500,000 children ages 1 to 5 have elevated blood lead levels.

CDC Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Risk Factors and Children

As National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week approaches from October 19 to 25, Westchester County officials are calling on families, property owners, and managers to take steps to shield children from the dangers of lead exposure.

County Executive Ken Jenkins emphasized the preventable nature of lead poisoning. “Lead exposure is entirely preventable, yet it continues to place children at risk,” Jenkins said. “When you rent, buy or renovate a home—especially one built before 1978—it’s vital to take precautions to prevent lead paint exposure. Peeling, chipping or cracked paint can create hazardous dust.”

Lead, a toxic metal, can cause irreversible harm, including learning and behavioral issues and permanent cognitive damage. Jenkins noted that in older homes, “regularly wet-cleaning window sills and floors can reduce the danger, since older painted window sashes create dust that easily gets onto little hands—and lead dust has a sweet taste that can attract children.”

New York State mandates lead testing for all children at ages one and two, with annual risk assessments through age six. Health Commissioner Dr. Sherlita Amler stressed the urgency of testing. “There is no safe level of lead, and the health effects can be devastating,” Amler said. “Parents should ask their child’s healthcare provider about testing.”

For those concerned about lead-based paint in their homes, Amler advised contacting the Westchester County Health Department at 914-813-5240. “Our team can help identify lead hazards, reduce exposure, and, if needed, assist families in relocating to a safer environment,” she said.

Amler identified chipped or peeling paint as the primary source of lead poisoning, with less common sources including candy, toys, pottery, cosmetics, or folk remedies. “Protecting children requires collaboration between families, landlords and the Health Department,” she added.

The Westchester County Health Department’s Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention Program offers education, notifies families of concerning blood lead levels, provides free home inspections, and recommends follow-up care. An educational video in English and Spanish is available for families seeking more information on preventing lead exposure.

This article was drafted with the aid of Grok, an AI tool by xAI, under the direction and editing of Robert Cox to ensure accuracy and adherence to journalistic standards.