Chicago Department of Public Health Weekly Media Brief, 10/17/2024
CDPH Public Information: media.cdph@cityofchicago.org
National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week
October 20-26 is the 25th anniversary of National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week (NLPPW), which we observe to help raise awareness about lead poisoning prevention, especially for children. Lead poisoning is a serious public health issue, and most cases occur in the home through exposure to deteriorating lead-based paint or during home renovations. The theme for this year's NLPPW is "Bright futures begin lead-free," with three key calls to action:
1. Get the facts
Learn about lead poisoning, lead hazards, and how to protect your family by visiting the CDPH Lead Poisoning Prevention and Healthy Homes website at chicago.gov/lead. Additionally, CDPH has partnered with the Departments of Water Management, Buildings, and Transportation on leadsafechicago.org, a comprehensive resource, covering lead hazards including paint, household items, and lead service lines. Additionally, the CDC is offering webinars and an information kit (in English and Spanish) to further educate families and communities on this issue.
2. Get your child tested
A blood test is the most effective way to determine if your child has been exposed to lead. If you suspect exposure, talk to your healthcare provider about getting your child tested.
3. Get your home tested
CDPH provides home inspections to check for lead hazards. If your child's blood lead level is greater than 5 micrograms per deciliter (mcg/dL), a home inspection is necessary. Expectant mothers can also request inspections to ensure their home is safe before the baby arrives. To schedule an inspection, call 312.747.LEAD (5323).
Lead poisoning is entirely preventable with proper testing and early intervention. Protect your family: get informed, get tested, and take action today.
CDPH Observes Wear Purple Day
Today is Wear Purple Day for Domestic Violence Awareness. CDPH wears purple to stand in solidarity with those affected by domestic violence and to show our commitment to helping ensure the safety and wellness of all Chicagoans.
For anyone who needs help with domestic violence, visit chi.gov/dvhelp.
To support, we encourage all to take photographs of themselves in purple, post to social media voicing how you bring awareness to domestic violence, and use the hashtags #WearPurpleChi and #Every1KnowsSome1
Healthy Chicago Podcast
Over the last few years, Chicago and the nation reached historic highs for deaths as a result to opioid overdoses. Then in May 2024, there was a red spike alert triggered by a daily opioid overdose amount more than twice the national average of the previous year, and CDPH accelerated its response of health care.
CDPH Commissioner Dr. Ige and Dr. Jenny Hua, Medical Director of Behavioral Health, discuss the current state of opioid use in Chicago, the dangers of drugs like medetomidine, and how CDPH did something bold this summer in response to record breaking numbers of overdoses.
Find information on overcoming opioids online, and call 833-234-6343 for MAR NOW (Medication Assisted Recovery NOW).
Tune in to the newest episode of Healthy Chicago on the CDPH website and all major platforms:
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