From Evidence to Action: Ending Lead Poisoning | WHO Director‑General Message

Why It Matters

The WHO initiative signals coordinated international policy and technical support that could reduce lifelong health and economic burdens from lead exposure, especially in vulnerable populations, and drive regulatory and remediation efforts worldwide.

Summary

WHO Director‑General urged global action to end lead poisoning, calling it a preventable public health crisis that disproportionately harms children by damaging brains, reducing learning capacity, and increasing cardiovascular deaths. She highlighted that there is no safe level of lead exposure and warned that lead remains present in everyday products and environments. WHO pledged to support countries by developing a global action plan and an evidence‑based technical package to strengthen policies, identify exposure sources, and deliver solutions. The announcement frames prevention as an investment in children’s futures, education, productivity, and healthier societies.

Original Description

In this message highlighting the forthcoming PREVENT Technical Package on lead poisoning prevention, WHO Director‑General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasizes the urgent need to prevent lead poisoning—a major but entirely preventable public health threat. He reaffirms WHO’s commitment to supporting countries through a Global Action Plan and technical guidance to protect children, save lives, and build healthier societies.

For more information: https://www.who.int/teams/environment-climate-change-and-health/chemical-safety-and-health/health-impacts/chemicals/lead/partnering-to-prevent-lead-exposure