Lead exposure remains one of the world's most widespread yet preventable health threats, affecting millions of children and adults alike. As the thirteenth International Lead Poisoning Prevention Week (ILPPW) approaches from 19 to 25 October 2025, the World Health Organization (WHO) and partners are issuing a clear warning: there is no safe level of lead, and immediate action is needed to eliminate exposure and protect future generations. The 2025 campaign carries the theme: "No safe level: act now to end lead exposure."
"No level of lead is safe. Every child deserves a future free from this poison," said Dr Ruediger Krech, Director, Department of Environment, Climate Change, One Health and Migration a.i, World Health Organization. "Every child, in every corner of the world, deserves a future free from the lifelong harm that can be prevented. This week, we call on governments, communities, and health-care providers to act decisively to eliminate lead exposure and protect the health and potential of the next generation."
Lead exposure remains a serious global health threat. It is linked to approximately 1.5 million deaths annually, primarily from cardiovascular disease, and causes irreversible neurological and behavioural damage, especially in children. Young children absorb significantly more lead than adults, leading to reduced IQ, learning difficulties, and behavioural problems. Lead exposure also harms the developing fetus.
Lead is present in numerous everyday materials, including paint, batteries, cosmetics, and even spices, and contaminates air, water, and soil, resulting in persistent exposure in communities worldwide.
Progress has been made, including the ban on lead in petrol and efforts by many countries to restrict lead in paints. However, WHO stresses that voluntary measures are not enough. Comprehensive bans on the production, import, sale, and use of lead-based paints must be implemented and strictly enforced to prevent exposure, particularly among children.
The campaign, held annually, aims to:
- raise awareness about the health effects of lead exposure;
- highlight national and partner efforts to prevent lead exposure, particularly in children; and
- urge countries to eliminate lead paint through strong regulatory action.
Governments, civil society organizations, health partners, and communities are encouraged to organize campaigns during ILPPW. WHO provides advocacy and technical materials to support these activities and invites organizers to register events on the campaign webpage to showcase actions worldwide.
Ending lead poisoning is not only possible, it is within reach. WHO urges all governments, organizations, and communities to act decisively to protect children and future generations from this preventable health threat.
