Articles tagged with Environmental Health
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.
A new study confirms that pesticides commonly used in farmland significantly harm bumblebees. Data from 106 sites across 8 European countries shows that bumblebees encounter multiple pesticides, resulting in fewer offspring and reduced colony performance.
A study published in Annals of Internal Medicine reveals a stagnation in cardiovascular health trends among middle-aged adults, with low-income individuals facing higher rates of hypertension and other risk factors. The research highlights the need to address social determinants of health contributing to these disparities.
A new study found that exposure to coal particulate air pollutants is associated with a mortality risk more than double that of exposure to PM2.5 from other sources. The researchers estimated that 460,000 deaths were attributable to coal PM2.5 in the US between 1999 and 2020.
A study found that workaholics have a consistently negative mood throughout the day, regardless of workload. Women are more vulnerable to workaholism due to role conflict and cultural expectations.
Testing wastewater for COVID-19 provides a more accurate forecast of new hospital admissions than clinical data. The researchers found that wastewater surveillance improved prediction models by 11 and 15 percent over models using case data and regional estimates, respectively.
A study by the Keck School of Medicine of USC found that liver cancer risk increases with each successive generation of Mexican Americans, particularly among men. The research analyzed data from over 30,000 participants and found third-generation Mexicans to be 66% more likely to develop liver cancer than first-generation individuals.
Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed a miniature, injectable glucose biosensor and wearable device that enables user-friendly, minimally-invasive continuous glucose monitoring. The device addresses challenges associated with existing CGMs, including size and skin tone compatibility.
Researchers aim to identify contaminants in ash, soil, and surface waters from the Maui fire, posing risks to human health. The study will also help educate communities on the presence and risk of contaminants, informing prevention measures for future fires.
The Society for Disaster Medicine and Public Health will host its annual meeting, featuring Major General (ret) Paul Friedrichs as the keynote speaker. The event focuses on disaster medicine and public health, with discussions on vulnerable populations and AI in emergency response.
A systematic review of air filtration systems found little evidence to support their effectiveness in reducing the risk of viral infections. The study analyzed 32 studies and found no strong evidence that air treatment technologies can protect people from catching airborne respiratory or gastrointestinal infections.
A team of engineers and public health experts from USF helped decrease blood lead levels of 87% of children tested in Toamasina, Madagascar. The team replaced old car batteries with lead-free check valves in pumps, educating city technicians on the dangers of lead.
Researchers found a tradeoff between fast growth and heat tolerance in corals, with thermally sensitive algae dominating faster growth but only in cooler water. This study helps predict reef futures and inform conservation strategies, highlighting the complexity of coral growth on a reef.
A comprehensive systematic review of 25 studies over nearly 50 years reveals consistent evidence of associations between insecticide exposure and lower sperm concentration in adult men. The findings warrant concern, particularly given observed downward trends in semen quality.
A national study found that exposure to environmental hazards in neighborhoods is associated with poor cardiovascular health, particularly among socioeconomically disadvantaged communities. The study used the Environmental Justice Index to assess cumulative environmental burden and its impact on cardiovascular risk factors and diseases.
A special issue of Medical Care journal highlights the need to study economic impacts on patient outcomes, including trade-offs in family decision-making about health care. The studies aim to improve data collection and infrastructure to measure nonmedical economic outcomes and track economic well-being over longer periods.
A study of US neighborhoods found a strong association between environmental burden and higher rates of cardiovascular risk factors and diseases. Socially vulnerable neighborhoods showed the strongest associations, highlighting the need for initiatives to address poor environmental conditions and improve cardiovascular health.
Experts from Regenstrief Institute, IMIA, IAHSI and AMIA will address the role of health informatics in resolving climate-related health issues. The mini-summit aims to bring together national and international experts to form an informatics infrastructure that highlights climate change's effects on health.
A recent study published in ScienceDirect found hundreds of toxic chemicals in recycled plastic pellets from 13 countries. The findings highlight the risks associated with recycling plastics and the need to phase out harmful chemicals. The researchers urge policymakers to take action to limit hazardous chemicals in plastics.
A recent report shows 37 percent of sampled drivers reported talking on their handheld cell phone while driving, highlighting the dangers of distracted driving. The UC San Diego TREDS program aims to educate the public on safe driving practices through free online courses and materials.
A group of 35 scientists calls out conflicts of interest in global plastic treaty negotiations, which have hindered timely action on health and environmental issues. They recommend implementing guidelines to prevent industry influence on the UN's Science Policy Panel on chemicals, citing past examples of pollution protection dilution.
A new Northwestern University study estimates that approximately 171,000 premature deaths per year are linked to nitrogen dioxide (NO2) exposure, with a disproportionate number occurring in marginalized communities. The study found that NO2 pollution affects predominantly Black census tracts 47% higher than the national average.