Thriving Forward
Too often Rochester, NY is featured in the news for its problems. But this area is rich with community-based organizations striving to improve the lives of its residents. Join local pediatricians Megan Lasaponara and Sarah Collins-McGowan as they interview people who are involved in good works all over the region. We will learn about each organization and how our guests found their path to community-based work. If you are ready to hear good news and feel inspired by what Rochester has to offer, join us as we talk to the people making our community ever better.
Thriving Forward
Lead Coalition with Dr. Schaffer and Jennifer Becker
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Megan Lasaponara & Sarah Collins-McGowan
The Rochester office of the Western NY Lead Poisoning Resource Center is supported by the New York State Department of Health.
We provide:
- Education and support to medical providers and local health departments within the region. Our center works to improve lead testing and provide education and prevention activities.
- Consultation with medical providers on the medical management of children and pregnant women with lead poisoning
- Consultation with local health department staff on case coordination of children and pregnant women with lead poisoning
- Provision of lead poisoning prevention information and materials to medical providers and the public
Take Action!
- Make sure children are tested at ages 1 & 2
- Be aware of possible lead hazards in or near any buildings built before 1978
- Use lead-safe practices when renovating, repairing, or painting a building built before 1978
- If you are pregnant be sure to get tested for lead, avoid doing renovations yourself, make sure people doing renovations are EPA certified and use lead safe work practices, and test for lead dust when renovation is complete
- If your child has been exposed to lead, it is important to:
- Prevent further exposure. Contact your county health department lead poisoning program for further advice.
- Evaluate diet and correct nutritional deficiencies, especially in iron, calcium, zinc, and vitamins C, D, and E.
- Be aware of potential attention, learning, and behavior management needs, and seek appropriate services. Younger children (less than three years old) may qualify for a referral to Early Intervention Services. Parents can request an evaluation by their school district’s Committee on Preschool Special Education for children 3 years of age and older who are not yet in school and may need additional support. Children enrolled in school would be referred to the school district’s Committee on Special Education should specific needs arise.
Western NY Lead Poisoning Resource Center website
Resource Center Team