HRSA is proud to be a partner in this effort. And, most of all, I want to thank the parents and the many other organizations here today who work tirelessly to protect children from this threat. As parents we share a deep commitment to the health and well-being of our children. As the father of two grown daughters, as a pediatrician and public health administrator, I understand the challenges all parents face in creating strong families and healthy homes for their kids. Today, parents and professionals alike, recognize and understand the key role a healthy environment plays in rearing healthy children.
Lead poisoning is the number one environmental threat to our children.
The statistics are sobering. Some cities report that one in four children under the age of 6 are victims of lead poisoning and that lead is present in up to 95 percent of inner city housing. Lead poisoning can influence the course of a child's life, having a negative impact on physical, mental, and social development. And the emotional and financial effects on a family can be devastating. The good news is that we are not powerless against this threat.