The mission of the Lead Poisoning Prevention Program of the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) is to prevent and control childhood lead poisoning by:
- Promoting early detection of lead poisoning through screening.
- Providing services for lead poisoned pregnant women, children, their families, and their health-care providers. Promoting public and private action to prevent lead poisoning by reducing children's exposure to lead hazards in the environment.
For more information about the services provided by the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene Lead Poisoning Prevention Program or what you can do to help prevent lead poisoning, call 311.
NOTE: Under the Blood Lead Level Reporting Requirements, medical providers are required to report blood lead levels of 10 mcg/dL or greater for all NYC residents within 24 hours.
Lead has been found in the paint, metal and plastic parts of jewelry, toys, vinyl lunch boxes, and other imported products for children. Younger children who put their hands and toys in their mouths are at greatest risk. Some products are also choking hazards.
Recently some, but not all, of these products have been recalled from stores. For updates on recalled products and more information about recalls or specific products visit the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.
*** See our Holiday Toy Safety fact sheet
Popular Publications
Click here for a list of all Lead Poisoning Prevention Program publications and to browse other Department of Health & Mental Hygiene publications.
