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ACNJ Press Release

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NEWS

 
   

For Immediate Release
January 9, 2019


CONTACT: CONTACT: Lana Lee, (973) 643-3876 (office) |(609) 651-5855 (cell)  | llee@acnj.org


Newly available data show heightened lead exposure persists for children in Newark

After years of trending downwards, the rate of Newark children ages 6 to 26 months with elevated lead levels increased in the city, from 5.3 percent of tested children in 2016 to 5.9 percent in preliminary data from 2017, while the state rate remained largely flat.

Read lead update with data charts from ACNJ policy counsel Peter Chen.

“Although there is no information on the cause of the increase, the shift is especially concerning because young children are most vulnerable to the harm caused by lead exposure,” ACNJ Policy Counsel Peter Chen said. “In light of this new data and recent headlines regarding the city’s lead problem, this presents an opportunity for Newark and the state of New Jersey to create a comprehensive solution to eliminate lead exposure for children once and for all.”

In March 2018, ACNJ released its Newark Kids Count report with a special section on lead exposure. The report showed continued high percentages of children being exposed to lead, as well as a lack of awareness among residents of programs designed to reduce lead exposure.

Read more.

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Advocates for Children of New Jersey is a statewide child research and action organization. ACNJ works with local, state and federal leaders to identify and implement changes that will benefit New Jersey’s children.

 

 


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