Recognizing the serious issue of lead poisoning in children, a project titled “Strengthening Health Systems to Reduce Lead Exposure “ has been launched in the state of Maharashtra through a joint initiative of the Public Health Department, the State Health Systems Resource Centre, Pure Earth, and Vital Strategies.
As a part of this project, a special blood lead level testing camp was organized on 19th June 2025 at the Primary Health Center Vasind, Maharashtra. This initiative was jointly led by Pure Earth, Vital Strategies and the Public Health Department, Thane,
The camp aimed to raise awareness and take preventive action against the dangers of lead exposure in children. Elevated levels of lead in the blood can have severe and irreversible effects on a child’s development and health, including cognitive impairments, learning disabilities, and other chronic health conditions. During the event, health professionals shared crucial information about the sources of lead exposure, the long-term impact on child health, and the importance of early detection and prevention.
Blood samples were collected from young children (1 to 6 years) to screen for elevated blood lead levels, marking an important step toward identifying at-risk individuals and ensuring timely intervention.
Qualified Health Professional conducting blood lead level testing
This initiative brought together several key health experts and stakeholders:
- Dr. Sanjay Deshmukh, Deputy Executive Director, State Health System Resource Centre, Public Health Department, Pune.
- Sumi Mehta, Vice President, Vital Strategies
- Dr Swapnil Nimkar, Senior Consultant – Research & Documentation, State Health System Resource Centre, Pune.
- Yi Lu, Senior Techincal Advisor, Vital Strategies.
- Dr Yatin Pimple, Senior Program Manager, South Asia Region, Vital Strategies.
- Dr. Anjali Chaudhari, District Training Officer, Health Department, Thane
- Dr. Shailesh Patil, Program Director, Pure Earth
- Dr. Swapnil More, Program Manager, Pure Earth
- Dr. Anuja Ingale, Medical Officer, Health Department, Thane
- Dr. Rupali Shedge, Medical Officer, Health Department, Thane
The presence of senior officials and health experts underscored the significance of addressing childhood lead exposure through collaborative, community-based efforts. Several health workers and staff members also participated actively in the event, supporting the screenings and awareness activities.
Dr Sanjay Deshmukh’s (Deputy Executive Director, State Health System Resource Centre, Public Health Department, Pune) visit reinforces our collaborative efforts.
This camp is part of ongoing efforts by Pure Earth, Vital Strategies and the Health Department to strengthen public health systems and protect vulnerable populations, particularly children, from the dangers of Lead exposure.
