Articles tagged with Environmental Health
International experts, led by Professor Lidia Morawska, recommend setting standards for ventilation rate and three key indoor pollutants to improve indoor air quality. The recommended standards could help minimize the spread of airborne diseases like COVID-19 and contribute to achieving the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals.
Researchers found that parents with high chemical intolerance scores were 5.7 times more likely to report a child with autism, highlighting the potential preventive role of avoiding toxic exposures. The study also suggests that reducing exposure prior to and during pregnancy could help prevention.
A study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that neighborhoods with more adversity have up to twice the increased risk of heart disease and stroke. The research highlights the complex interplay between social and environmental factors on health outcomes.
A study found open waste burning increases health risks to a remote Arctic community due to high levels of particulate matter (PM2.5) pollution. Continuous air quality monitoring is crucial for protecting public health, particularly in the Arctic region.
The study emphasizes the need for international cooperation to implement ecological interventions, such as protecting food sources and natural habitats, to prevent pathogen spillover. By conserving biodiversity, bats can be less stressed, reducing their shedding of viruses that can infect humans.
A new study published in Stroke found that exposure to artificial, bright outdoor nighttime light may increase the risk of cerebrovascular disease and stroke. The research, which analyzed data from over 28,000 adults living in China, suggests that higher levels of outdoor light pollution at night may be a risk factor for these conditions.
Researchers will characterize initial environmental exposures and collect biospecimens and data from residents potentially impacted by the disaster. Investigators will evaluate biospecimens for early signs of liver dysfunction, detecting known liver carcinogen vinyl chloride.
Scientists have discovered six proteins that can accurately diagnose tuberculosis (TB). The breakthrough study paves the way for a simple blood test to detect the bacteria, which could prevent millions of cases annually. TB is the world's deadliest infectious disease, killing over one million people each year.
A group of coastal Alaska Native tribes have successfully taken the lead on shellfish toxin testing, filling a critical gap in public health protection. However, securing stable funding and improving outreach has been limited, threatening the effectiveness of the program.
The study found that the improvement in air quality has led to a significant reduction in fine particles and nitrogen oxides, resulting in large health gains. Despite improvements, many residents are still exposed to high levels of air pollution, highlighting the need for continued efforts to reduce emissions.
Preliminary research suggests that short-term heat exposure can lead to increased inflammation and impaired immune function, making individuals more susceptible to infections. Adults older than 60 and those with existing cardiovascular disease are particularly at risk.
A recent study in Florida found that nearly all farm workers were dehydrated at the end of their shifts and more than half remained dehydrated the following morning. The researchers emphasized the need for stricter federal regulations and smaller interventions to address this issue.
A new study finds that e-cigarette users with a limited smoking history experience similar DNA changes to specific cheek cells as smokers. The researchers also found that some smoking-related epigenetic changes remain more stable after giving up smoking, suggesting that e-cigarettes may not be completely safe.
A new study by UT researchers links air pollution in Austin neighborhoods to increased asthma-related emergency room visits, particularly among Black and Latinx residents. The study highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions to mitigate pollution in high-asthma-burden neighborhoods.
A new study calls on pediatric primary care to prioritize menstrual health, highlighting barriers that limit clinician engagement and patient guidance. Researchers offer practical solutions to improve access to menstrual health services for adolescents.
A team of researchers developed an innovative technique to identify 60 different liquid crystal monomers in various samples, including electronic waste and even in dog feces and urine. The method demonstrated satisfactory levels of precision and accuracy, providing insight into the biological and environmental exposure to these chemicals.
A new study from the University of Chicago analyzed DNA methylation in tissue samples from former smokers, finding evidence of the body's attempts to defend itself from tobacco smoke. The research team identified new regions associated with smoking and found that DNA methylation varies dramatically across cell types and tissue types.
Research shows that Americans living in federally-supported housing have lower blood lead levels than those who would join these programs later. This likely due to stricter compliance with federal residential lead paint laws in HUD housing compared to non-assisted private market housing.
A study by Michigan Medicine found that recreational activities such as golfing, gardening, and woodworking may increase the risk of developing amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in men. The study surveyed over 700 individuals with and without ALS to assess their hobbies and non-work related activities.
Research finds a nearly 40% decline in respirable particulate matter (PM2.5) in Krakow, Poland, following policy changes targeting coal emissions. This improvement translates to substantial benefits for children's outcomes, including fewer asthma cases and better birth outcomes.
A new study finds that reducing CO2 emissions from motor vehicles can bring large benefits to children's health, saving over $82 million annually. The Transportation and Climate Initiative policy framework is proposed to achieve this goal, with significant health co-benefits for vulnerable populations.
A new study quantifies the significant health impacts of oil and gas flaring in the US, resulting in over 700 premature deaths and 73,000 asthma exacerbations annually. The research highlights the need for stronger controls on emissions from this sector to improve public health and mitigate climate change.
A recent study highlights the negligible impact of waste-to-energy plant emissions on public health in China's Bohai Rim. The research used advanced regression analysis to evaluate the health risks associated with living near WtE plants, finding that levels of pollutants were below international safety thresholds.
Researchers at MIT have developed a new sensor that can detect tiny quantities of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in drinking water. The device uses lateral flow technology and can measure concentrations as low as 200 parts per trillion, offering a potential solution for consumer testing and industrial applications.
A 20-year analysis found that calcium and vitamin D supplements reduced cancer mortality by 7%, but increased cardiovascular disease mortality by 6% in postmenopausal women. The study suggested that cancer incidence depends on pre-supplementation status, while CVD mortality is higher among supplement users.
A study using AI to analyze almost 180,000 food outlets found that restaurants tend to have the healthiest menus, followed by cafes and snack bars. The research reveals a 'double burden' on people living in deprived areas due to high concentrations of unhealthy fast-food outlets.
A new study reveals that migrant drowning deaths in the Pacific Ocean rose 3200% after the border wall height was increased from 17 feet to 30 feet. The study analyzed data from the Missing Migrants Project and found a significant increase in drownings along the San Diego coast, with relatively stable rates in other areas.
A recent study by Drexel University shows that sound waves can reveal the composition of buried water lines, allowing for the speedy removal of lead service lines. The technique uses ultrasonic stress wave propagation to detect unique acoustic signatures for each type of pipe, making it a promising alternative to invasive testing methods.
A new study finds that communities of color in the US suffer from nearly 8 times higher rates of pediatric asthma and 1.3 times higher risk of dying prematurely from exposure to pollutants. The study highlights the need for place-based policies to address health disparities linked to air pollution.
Climate change is exacerbating dangerous humid heat conditions in US carceral facilities, with 44 states lacking universal air conditioning. Incarcerated people are disproportionately susceptible to heat-related illnesses, with preexisting health conditions increasing risk.
A study reveals that restoration strategies in the semi-arid region of Brazil have led to a return of native ecosystem services by improving soil microbial properties. The techniques, including removal of cattle and cultivation of cover crops, have resulted in higher biodiversity and crop yields.
A Texas A&M professor will lead a team in evaluating the distribution and potential hazard of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in East Palestine, Ohio, using a mobile platform. The research aims to inform response methods to measuring air quality following environmental disasters.
A new study from Columbia University finds that communities severed by roads and traffic in NYC experience a larger number of collisions, including pedestrian and cyclist injuries. The Community Severance Index developed for this study can help identify areas requiring targeted interventions.
A new study led by Brown University researchers found an association between household firearm ownership and elevated lead levels in children's blood in 44 states. The study suggests that firearm-related lead ammunition use is a significant source of lead exposure in the US, disproportionately affecting children.
A Mass General Brigham study found that emergency department visits and deaths rose by 1.22% and 1.4%, respectively, one week after major climate-driven weather events, with elevated mortality rates persisting for six weeks.
Researchers found that Indigenous communities in California were exposed to 1.7 times more wildfire smoke than expected, with the average annual exposure being a critical factor in understanding long-term health effects. The study proposes new metrics to measure cumulative exposure and duration of smoke exposure.
Researchers at NJIT's Newark College of Engineering and College of Science and Liberal Arts receive $265K in grants from the New Jersey Health Foundation to develop biodegradable materials, enhance bone regeneration, and create air filters for viral removal. The projects focus on addressing environmental impact and promoting healthcare...
A study of 5,279 children found that early-life exposure to air pollution significantly increases the risk of developing asthma by early and middle childhood. The study highlights the need for targeted environmental interventions and greater health equity in urban communities.
A new portable sensor has been found to accurately measure black carbon concentrations as well as a regulatory standard sensor, filling a massive gap in air quality monitoring. The sensor's portability and affordability make it suitable for remote or inaccessible sites, allowing for more comprehensive data collection.
A new study reveals that deforestation in Cambodia is linked to poor health outcomes in children and pregnant women, with increased risk of malaria, malnutrition, and stunting. The research highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions to mitigate malaria infections among pregnant females in deforestation-prone areas.
A new American Heart Association scientific statement offers the latest knowledge on neurodevelopmental outcomes in people of all ages with congenital heart disease. The statement highlights that neurodevelopmental difficulties are common complications faced by individuals with congenital heart disease, affecting their ability to funct...
A new study found that communities of color in Denver are exposed to higher levels of air pollution due to historical redlining practices. The study used satellite images and historical data to measure pollution throughout the city, revealing a correlation between pollution and race.
The project seeks to understand the impact of climate change, energy poverty, and indoor environmental quality on diverse populations, including people of color, renters, and low-income individuals. Proposed solutions include weatherization coupled with electrification and microgrid technology.
A new study found that chronic exposure to PM2.5 is associated with increased risk of hospital admission for various cardiovascular conditions, particularly ischemic heart disease and cerebrovascular disease. The study suggests that lowering annual average PM2.5 levels could decrease overall cardiovascular hospitalizations by 15%.
Children exposed to higher levels of airborne lead in their first five years showed slightly lower IQs and less self-control, with boys being more susceptible. The study's findings support the importance of reducing environmental pollution on child development.
A large study found that wildfires lead to an increase in anxiety-related emergency department visits in the western United States, exacerbating a growing public health crisis. The research suggests preventative measures like closing windows and limiting outdoor activities can help mitigate the effects.
Research reveals a rich diversity of beneficial fungi living in boreal forest trees, with implications for forest health. The findings suggest that these fungi are adapted in highly specific ways to their local conditions, making them sensitive to future climate change.
A new metabolomics method has been proven to be a reliable approach for grouping chemicals, potentially reducing the use of lab rats. The study's results show that the method can accurately group chemicals into categories, making it a viable alternative to traditional methods.
A new EWG study has found chlormequat, a little-known pesticide, in 77% of urine samples from people tested between 2017 and 2023. The chemical is linked to reproductive and developmental problems in animal studies, suggesting potential harm to humans. EWG calls for increased research and regulation on chlormequat.
Scientists have developed a cage-like molecule to trap sulfate in water, which could help control its concentration in health, industry, and environmental management. The molecular trap can be prepared inexpensively from off-the-shelf chemicals and has potential applications in medicine, such as treating cystic fibrosis.
The book offers hope and impetus in the right direction by demonstrating that human courage and reason can help overcome paralyzing fear. It highlights the need for self-reliance, revitalization of human values, personal and local action, and a global perspective to steer humanity towards a modern world.
Research published in ACS Environmental Science & Technology Letters reveals that exposure to pesticide-treated seeds can adversely affect earthworms' health. Earthworms exposed to non-lethal amounts of insecticides and fungicides showed poor weight gain and mitochondrial DNA damage.
A study of over 3,500 men with prostate cancer found that a plant-based diet significantly improved measures of sexual function, urinary health, and vitality scores. The research suggests that adding more fruits and vegetables to the diet while reducing meat and dairy can have a positive impact on quality of life.
The new advisory highlights the dramatic advances in understanding and treatment of cardiovascular diseases over the past century. These advancements have saved millions of lives and reduced heart disease death rates by more than half since 1950.
Researchers found that 30 out of 44 occupations paid at least 5% less in government than the private sector, with severe disparities in management, leadership, and technical roles. To address this issue, experts suggest improving federal data on public health workforce salaries, offering benefits and work-life balance as motivators.
A McGill-led study found that fathers exposed to environmental toxins like DDT may produce sperm with health consequences for their children, increasing the risk of birth defects and diseases. The study's findings highlight the importance of considering fathers in discussions about child health and development.
A recent study found that home environment features, particularly lighting, influence home activity metrics in older adults with visual impairment. The results suggest that home modifications may improve at-home physical activity, highlighting the importance of considering environmental factors in promoting health and mobility.
Researchers developed a novel approach to measuring community personality and found that people in like-minded communities tend to be happier, healthier, and more highly achieving. Communities differ significantly in terms of personality traits, with some counties having high proportions of open-minded or conscientious individuals.
The American Heart Association's PREVENT risk calculator will be evaluated among diverse populations to assess its accuracy and fairness. The research aims to ensure that the tool provides accurate risk predictions for people from various racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
A new study links daily exposure to phthalates, used in plastic food containers and cosmetics, to nearly 56,600 preterm births in the US in 2018. The resulting medical costs are estimated to reach $1.6 billion to $8.1 billion over the lifetime of the children.