This document describes an agenda for the first 5 years of a comprehensive effort to eliminate childhood lead poisoning. In 1984, between 3 and 4 million children were estimated to have blood lead levels high enough to adversely affect intelligence and behavior. Lead in the home environment, especially lead-based paint, is the major source of lead poisoning. Benefits of preventing lead exposure include reduced medical and special education costs, increased productivity, and reduced infant mortality. The strategy for eliminating lead poisoning involves: (1) increasing the number of activities that lead to the prevention of childhood lead poisoning and the funding of such activities; (2) increasing the abatement of the use of lead-based paint in housing; (3) reducing children's exposure to lead in the environment; and (4) establishing national surveillance of children with elevated blood lead levels. Funds that would be needed to implement the strategy are described and recommendations for implementing the strategy are offered. Also discussed are research activities that would complement the strategy. Eight references are cited. Appendixes include: (1) an account of the effects of lead exposure on children and fetuses; (2) a description of the benefits and costs of preventing lead exposure; (3) a history of childhood lead poisoning prevention programs; (4) a list of organizations that promote awareness of lead poisoning; and (5) guidelines for the development of lead abatement programs. (BC)