SYNOPSISIn the past 20 years, 90 children with chronic lead poisoning, mostly due to the ingestion of peeling paint, have been diagnosed in Sydney. Eleven of the children died and at least 30% have serious neurological or renal sequelae. The aim of this brief review is to renew interest amongst the medical profession in this hazard, for only by early diagnosis and appropriate treatment will this sad picture be improved. It is also hoped to stimulate measures to rid our society of a preventable disease.