Residents of Flint who were exposed to lead-contaminated water from the city’s water system can now pre-enroll for the Flint Registry, an effort to connect residents to programs and other resources that serve to minimize the effects of lead on their health, while promoting wellness and recovery.
Mona Hanna-Attisha, a pediatrician and associate professor in the Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, along with other MSU, Flint and government leaders, announced the launch of the pre-enrollment website earlier today.
During the pre-enrollment process, those interested in being part of the effort can submit their name and contact information and receive updates on when the formal enrollment begins, which is projected to be this fall.
The registry is part of the Centers for Disease Control’s ongoing efforts across the country to reduce and prevent exposure to lead as part of its Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention program.
“We encourage people of all ages who were exposed to sign up during our pre-enrollment phase at flintregistry.org,” said Hanna-Attisha, who is leading the effort. “This registry will be a powerful tool to understand, measure and improve the lives of those exposed to lead-contaminated water.”
In August 2017, MSU received $3.2 million, the first installment of a four-year, $14.4 million grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to develop the registry. MSU is working in partnership with Flint residents, the City of Flint, the Greater Flint Health Coalition, educators, clinicians and community-based organizations that serve local residents.
The registry is voluntary and will link registrants’ data on exposure, health and key childhood developmental milestones with their participation in services through a referral network. People of all ages can participate including individuals outside the area who went to school, daycare or worked in Flint during the crisis.
“MSU champions the work of Dr. Mona and all of our community partners in their continuing efforts to help the people of Flint recover from the water crisis,” said MSU Provost June Youatt. “The Flint Registry is an important community initiative that will help shape health decisions locally, in Michigan and nationwide for years to come.”
Hanna-Attisha expects the registry to be fully operational in September.
For more information and to pre-register, visit flintregistry.org.
