One of the most common pediatric health problems is childhood lead poisoning. This report examines the preventable problem of lead poisoning. The report describes childhood lead poisoning as both a health problem to which infants and young children are most susceptible, and as a housing problem. More than half the housing units in Rhode Island have potential lead paint hazards. The report details the rate of childhood lead poisoning in Rhode Island, highlighting racial, income, and location differences. It also describes current strategies for combating childhood lead poisoning in Rhode Island, including screening, medical treatment and follow-up, hospitalization, inspection of housing, lead abatement, and enforcement. In addition, the report delineates the elements of a comprehensive strategy to reduce childhood lead poisoning and policy initiatives which have had some success in reducing childhood lead poisoning. Finally, the report describes promising strategies undertaken by state government, financial institutions, enforcement agencies, and the local community. (KB)