Recent data collected by the Monroe County Department of Health shows the number of children affected by lead poisoning has dropped significantly.

Over the last 10 years, the number has decreased by 84 percent. The Coalition to Prevent Lead Poisoning said that figure could be a bit deceiving, as only half of children age 2 and under in Monroe County get tested.

Still, 283 kids were diagnosed with lead poisoning last year.

"Lead is not going to go away, it's an element, it's in our environment. But we can reduce children's exposure to it by getting the homes inspected. If you live in the city of Rochester the city will inspect your home or your apartment. If you live outside of the city there are other sources. So get the homes inspected so children's exposure is reduced," said Joan Roby-Davison, Coalition to Prevent Lead Poisoning.

Ninety-six percent of kids with elevated lead levels live in the city.