Articles tagged with Environmental Health
New research from Flinders University found that regular exercise and a personalized falls prevention plan based on individual needs can reduce the likelihood of falls. The studies also highlighted the importance of having an individual falls risk assessment and modifying strategies according to specific circumstances, such as dementia.
A Chinese Medical Journal study examined the spatiotemporal features of disease burden due to air pollution across China between 2005 and 2017. The findings revealed a downward trend in premature mortality from fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and ozone (O3) pollution, but an increasing financial burden due to economic growth.
A study of 1,950 NYC residents found that 30% experience energy insecurity, leading to respiratory, mental health, and cardiovascular conditions. The population was disproportionately affected by low-income, Black, and Latino residents, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to address health inequities.
The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted learning and development among school-aged children, with disadvantaged families feeling the effects most severely. Researchers found that only 30% of students were assessed as kindergarten-ready in 2021, compared to 40% in 2018.
A longitudinal study found that higher consumption of tea, processed meats, and food prepared outside the home is associated with increased levels of PFAS in the body over time. This suggests potential solutions for protecting the public from these harmful chemicals.
A new study reveals tiny plankton (0.02mm) make up majority of ocean plankton, playing critical role in ecosystem health and oxygen production. The research emphasizes the need to take these tiny organisms seriously and incorporate them into global ocean policy.
A systematic analysis by MedUni Vienna's Center for Public Health found that people experiencing homelessness are twice as likely to develop cancer due to increased exposure to risk factors. Key barriers include lack of access to preventive services, inadequate support from healthcare systems, and traumatic experiences.
Researchers in Italy cultivate four species of microgreens with bespoke nutritional profiles, providing a blueprint for soilless cultivation of nutritionally enriched plants. The study successfully produces microgreens with up to 14 times higher iodine content and 45% reduced potassium levels, catering to specific dietary requirements.
A recent study by Curtin University found that 1454 avoidable deaths occurred due to fine particle air pollution from extreme events like bushfires and dust storms. The research suggests nearly one-third of these deaths could be prevented if pollution events were reduced by 5 per cent.
A new study has mapped the health risks of heatwaves in India, finding that mild heatwaves are the deadliest, while extreme ones have fewer deaths due to their infrequency. The research highlights the need for policymakers to plan for both common and extreme heatwaves to protect public health.
A Rutgers Health study found that pregnant women exposed to certain flame-retardant chemicals may face an increased risk of preterm birth, especially for baby girls, or higher birth weights. The study linked three specific markers of organophosphate ester exposure to shorter pregnancies and higher risks of preterm birth in female infants.
A recent study by researchers at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found a significant link between cannabis use and current asthma prevalence among US adolescents and adults. The study analyzed data from the 2020 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, finding that individuals who reported cannabis use in the past ...
A recent NIH study found that exposure to organophosphate ester flame retardants during pregnancy may increase the risk of preterm birth, particularly in female infants. Higher concentrations of certain OPE markers were also associated with higher birth weights, which can be a sign of potential complications.
A large study found that exposure to organophosphate ester flame retardants during pregnancy was associated with preterm birth, especially among female newborns. Higher birth weight was also linked to increased obesity risk. The chemicals are widely used in building materials, furniture, and electronics.
Researchers found that patients sleeping near windows slept better than those in other parts of the ward. Light exposure was also critical in regulating circadian rhythms, with short wavelength enriched morning light improving sleep quality. Fluctuations in noise levels negatively impacted sleep, emphasizing the need for noise mitigati...
A University of Surrey review concludes that Delhi needs help from its rural neighbors to clean up its killer smog problem. The study recommends identifying the wider area where a city's pollution is produced and working together with neighboring areas to tackle air pollution, with huge health implications for Indian cities.
A recent study found that exposure to multiple toxicants across generations can amplify health problems, such as obesity and kidney diseases. The study, published in Environmental Epigenetics, showed that epigenetic changes were greatly altered with each new generation of exposed animals.
A study found that primary care physicians spent nearly 30 minutes more on EHR tasks between pre-pandemic and final year, with time spent outside of scheduled hours increasing significantly. This growth in EHR workload may contribute to burnout and affect decisions to cut back on clinic time or leave the profession.
Researchers identified genetic variants that predict response to treatment for preterm birth, a condition affecting one in 10 infants. High levels of mutations in certain genes are associated with lower response rates, suggesting a precision framework for future drug development.
Researchers found a correlation between cortical gray matter thickness and dementia risk, with thinner ribbons indicating higher risk. The study suggests that this biomarker could be used to identify people at high risk of dementia, potentially allowing for early intervention.
A new screening tool helps identify primary care patients with precarious employment, associated with health insurance issues, lower incomes, and greater psychological stress. The tool assesses temporary contracts, job insecurity, and income variability.
A recent study found that primary care physicians' electronic health record (EHR) workload has continued to grow, with PCPs spending nearly 30 minutes more on EHR tasks per clinic appointment between 2019 and 2023. This increased burden can lead to burnout and affect their ability to provide adequate care.
A new study by the University of Technology Sydney suggests that office air conditioning can reduce the risk of harm from wildfire smoke. The researchers found that air conditioning filters in UTS Buildings 4 and 7 captured a significant portion of wildfire smoke, reducing exposure to toxic particles for staff and students.
A study led by Amsterdam UMC found that a tailored computerised decision support system reduced high-risk drug combinations and improved patient safety. The system only showed alerts for high-risk or needing extra monitoring, resulting in 12% fewer high-risk drug combinations and shorter ICU stays.
A study of 804 mother-child pairs found distinct growth patterns in children based on their prenatal exposure to organophosphate esters, with girls showing increased growth in length and weight. Higher levels of certain OPEs during pregnancy were associated with larger head sizes in boys and faster growth rates in children.
Researchers discovered a gene expression signature that differentiates between symptomatic and asymptomatic infections, as well as positive and negative individuals. The study reveals complex interactions between viruses and the human body, with influenza leading to greater changes in gene expression.
Researchers have created a prototype model that detects 'forever chemicals' in water using a luminescent metal complex attached to a sensor surface. The approach can detect 220 micrograms of PFAS per liter of water, but needs to be more sensitive to detect nanogram levels for drinking water.
A study by FAU Harbor Branch researchers found unique patterns of cytotoxicity associated with toxins in the lagoon, suggesting potential human health risks. The study used a panel of immortalized human cell lines to detect and analyze metabolites present in water samples, revealing high toxicity levels at certain sites.
A new study published in the Journal of the Endocrine Society estimates that chemicals in plastics contribute to various diseases and disabilities in the US, resulting in significant healthcare costs. The study found that $67 billion is attributed to phthalate exposure, while PFAS exposure leads to $22 billion in health costs.
Researchers found a decade-long decline in blood lead levels among American Indian adults was correlated with long-term cardiovascular health benefits, including reduced systolic blood pressure. The study suggests that even small decreases in blood lead levels can have meaningful health outcomes.
A new study using personal wristband monitors has collected unprecedented data on air pollution exposures in pregnant individuals in New York City. The findings identified complex interactions between demographics and behaviors that shape exposure to individual compounds, highlighting the need for further research to understand these p...
Scientists have discovered a way to predict breast cancer risk based on specific chemical traits, identifying over 900 chemicals that could contribute to the disease. These chemicals are commonly found in consumer products, food, and workplaces, and can alter hormones or damage DNA.
Researchers used a new technique to count tiny plastic particles in bottled water, finding an average of 240,000 detectable fragments per liter, 10 times greater than previous estimates. Nanoplastics, smaller than microplastics, can pass through the bloodstream and reach organs like the heart and brain.
A recent University of Cincinnati study found nicotine and a potent carcinogen called NNK on surfaces in children's homes, highlighting the persistence of thirdhand smoke pollutants even in homes with voluntary indoor smoking bans. The research emphasizes the importance of protecting children from tobacco exposure.
New research found significant differences in heat tolerance among mosquito populations, with some more resilient to heat waves than others. Climate factors such as precipitation and humidity play a crucial role in determining their thermal limits, which may impact disease transmission.
A large-scale study found exposure to low and high biothermal stress during pregnancy linked to a higher risk of babies being born too small or large for their gestational ages. The study also identified specific subpopulations at higher risk, including non-Caucasian people and those aged 35 and above.
A new study from the University of Illinois finds that high-striving minority youth in early adolescence may experience accelerated puberty development, a potential indicator of 'skin-deep resilience,' which can lead to physiological changes such as inflammation and metabolic disorders.
A Washington State University study found that living near nature can reduce serious psychological distress and improve general health in older adults. Researchers analyzed data from over 42,000 people aged 65 and older, finding a strong association between access to green spaces and better mental and physical health outcomes.
A new two-year study will examine the impact of environmental factors on children's health, including those with disabilities. The researchers aim to recruit a diverse population of pregnant people and their children to understand the bidirectional relationship between mother and child.
New research finds that PAHs in wildfire smoke can persist on indoor materials for weeks, posing health risks. Effective household cleaning techniques, such as laundering cotton and using glass cleaners, can significantly reduce exposure.
Researchers investigated tiny plastics' impact on soil microbes and antibiotic resistance, revealing significant effects of nanoplastics. The study emphasizes the need to understand these impacts and reduce plastic pollution to protect environmental and public health.
Research found that nearly four out of ten sepsis patients are still out of work two years after contracting the illness. Younger individuals and those with fewer chronic diagnoses were more likely to return to work.
Researchers at UNIST developed a novel one-pot process for growing Bdellovibrio bacteriovorus, a predatory bacterium with potential as 'living antibiotics'. This approach eliminated the need for multiple vessels and reduced growth time by over 50%, enabling large-scale cultivation without compromising efficacy.
A new study highlights the wide range of urban exposures during early childhood that can influence growth and development, including air and noise pollution, overcrowding, and limited green space. The first 2000 days of life are a critical period for physical, cognitive, social, and emotional health outcomes.
A new study finds that tropical cyclone exposure is increasing globally, with vulnerable populations facing greater risks. The analysis reveals a significant increase in the number of people at risk from these storms, particularly among those over 60 and socioeconomically deprived.
Researchers found that less than two percent of patients in Medicaid and commercially insured plans received Z-codes to document Social Determinants of Health. The study highlights the need for improved tracking and documentation of SDOH in healthcare settings, with recommendations for policy changes and provider education.
Research finds that animated short videos are an effective means for disseminating environmental health information to health professionals. The studies showed significant increases in participant knowledge and perceived comfort in identifying at-risk patients impacted by air pollution.
A new study at Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health found that patients generate more actionable and creative ideas when explicitly invited to share them. The research offers a rigorously tested methodology for eliciting creative ideas from patients, which can be used to improve healthcare delivery and quality improvement.
A study published in Environmental Health Perspectives found that exposure to phthalates can lower the odds of getting pregnant, but not lead to pregnancy loss. The researchers also discovered associations between preconception phthalate exposure and changes in women's reproductive hormones, inflammation, and oxidative stress.
A study found that individuals who perceive climate change as a health threat are more likely to endorse interest in cancer screening. Those with greater awareness of climate change impacts may also be more overall health conscious, driving their interest in preventive healthcare measures.
Researchers analyzed over 500 young skateboarders' moves, finding that flat ground, quarterpipe, and ramp tricks pose the highest risk of falls. The study suggests grading skatepark features according to popularity and expertise required to reduce fall risk.
The center will focus on research and programs to help communities in Arizona and other hot, dry geographic regions adapt to climate-driven health threats. SCORCH aims to build resilience through cross-disciplinary research and community engagement.
A new study by Texas A&M University researchers found a significant decrease in measles antibody concentrations with increasing urinary arsenic levels in children with low serum folate levels. Folate intake may mitigate the toxic effects of chronic arsenic exposure, but the unequal impact of arsenic by sex remains unclear.
A Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Institute study found a strong link between higher prenatal PFAS exposure and increased rates of obesity and body fat in adolescent offspring. Higher levels of certain PFAS were associated with a 13-59% increase in the risk of obesity, highlighting the long-term consequences of PFAS for developmental health.
A longitudinal study of Hispanic adolescents and young adults found that PFAS exposure is linked to lower bone mineral density and a higher risk of osteoporosis. The study's findings highlight the need for stricter regulation of PFAS to protect vulnerable populations.
A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that many couples around the world share high blood pressure. The research analyzed data from over 50,000 couples in four countries and found a strong association between partners' blood pressure status.
A review article links pesticide exposure to an increased risk of developing Parkinson's disease through alterations in the gut microbiota. The authors recommend reducing or replacing agrochemicals and implementing coordinated efforts to develop standardized biomarkers for gut integrity and microbiome changes.
Research finds that social factors, particularly racial and socioeconomic inequities, drive the use of scented menstrual products. The study found that Black participants were more likely to use scented products, while those with higher education levels preferred unscented options.
The BioSPACE project aims to provide farmers, environmental agencies, and water-reliant industries with portable sensors to rapidly detect germs that threaten marine and freshwater life. The economic burden caused by waterborne diseases exceeds $3 billion in direct health care costs each year in the United States.
A new study identifies public and private companies operating in economic sectors associated with increased risks of emerging infectious diseases. Financial actors can mitigate these risks through investments that promote ecological restoration, pathogen surveillance systems, and community health care.