This report compares the clinical picture, diagnosis, treatment and outcome of children with lead poisoning in the 1950s and the 1970s. During this 20-year period, increasing attention has been given to lead poisoning both at the local and national level. This attention has produced legislation to fund screening programs and to reduce the allowable amount of lead in paint. Greater public awareness, more effective methods for screening both populations and environments, and a reduction in severe sequelae of lead poisoning have also been achieved.