The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised alarm over the continuing global threat of lead exposure, urging immediate and coordinated action to protect children and adults from its harmful effects.
Despite being entirely preventable, lead poisoning continues to impact millions worldwide, causing severe health and economic consequences.
Lead is found in many common materials such as paints, batteries, cosmetics and even spices. It also contaminates air, water and soil, creating long-term exposure risks in many communities.
According to WHO estimates, lead exposure is linked to about 1.5 million deaths every year, mainly due to cardiovascular diseases. It also causes permanent neurological and behavioural damage, particularly in children who absorb the metal more easily than adults.
Ahead of the 13th International Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, to be observed from October 19 to 25, the WHO said there is no safe level of exposure to lead and that immediate measures must be taken to eliminate it. “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, at the WHO.
“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,” Krech added.
The organisation acknowledged that progress has been made through measures like the global ban on leaded petrol and restrictions on lead-based paints in several countries. However, it warned that voluntary efforts alone are not enough. The WHO called for strict enforcement of comprehensive bans on the production, import, sale and use of lead-based paints, particularly to protect children.
Apart from health risks, the WHO noted that lead exposure has a serious economic impact. A recent study, conducted by researchers from Jadavpur University in Kolkata, the National University of Singapore and other institutions, found that ongoing childhood lead exposure results in an annual loss of more than USD 3.4 trillion in global economic potential.
The study, published in the journal Communications Earth & Environment, showed that low- and middle-income countries bear the greatest share of this loss. The researchers warned that increasing demand for electrification and unregulated recycling of lead-based materials could worsen existing inequalities and undo progress in children’s health if stronger protections are not put in place.
The WHO has urged all governments, organisations and communities to strengthen safeguards and take decisive action to remove lead from the environment, stressing that protecting children today is essential for a healthier and more equitable future.
