GENESEO, N.Y., Oct. 3, 2023 – October is National Children’s Health Month and Livingston County is raising awareness about the importance of protecting children, especially those in populations that are susceptible to environmental threats based on where they live, learn and play.
Children are often more prone to experiencing the impacts of pollutants than adults due to differences in behaviors, which can lead to greater exposure to harmful elements, viruses and other factors that can cause illness.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, children who live in communities that have higher rates of pollutants may suffer from a reduced ability to recover from harmful environmental exposures. As a result, children in low-income families and communities or those in communities that are underserved by education, healthcare and housing may be at greater risk for health problems than their counterparts.
Age-appropriate behaviors also play a factor. Many children crawl, play on the floor or in the yard where they may be exposed to harmful contaminants or place items in their mouth. Exposure to harmful elements such as lead remain a cause for concern as prolonged contact or ingestion can cause lifelong problems with one’s health.
For more information on steps that can be taken to safeguard your children’s health, please contact your healthcare provider. Residents are also encouraged to learn more about lead exposure and other harmful environmental health elements by visiting the Livingston County Department of Health’s website.
About Livingston County:
Founded in 1821, Livingston County, N.Y., is home to more than 61,000 residents in 17 towns located across 631 square miles of the Finger Lakes region.
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