Articles tagged with Environmental Health
A recent study published in Environmental Health Perspectives found a strong association between natural gas flaring and an increased risk of preterm birth. Exposure to high levels of flaring was linked to a 50% higher odds of preterm birth compared to no exposure, with women living near flaring sites facing the greatest risks.
Researchers at North Carolina State University found that bed bug infestations alter the indoor microbial diversity in homes, with the presence of Wolbachia bacterium being a key driver. After eliminating bed bugs, home microbiomes gradually shifted toward those of uninfested homes.
Most dietary guidelines are not compatible with global health and environmental targets, finds an analysis published by The BMJ. Reforming national dietary guidelines could prevent deaths from chronic diseases and cut greenhouse gas emissions, according to a new study.
The grant will support masters and doctoral-level training programs in critical fields like industrial hygiene and occupational ergonomics. It aims to improve worker health, safety, and well-being in the American workforce.
A study published in BMC Public Health suggests that extending US menthol cigarette flavor bans could encourage smokers to quit and lower smoking rates. The authors estimate that up to 45% of current US menthol smokers may quit in response to a ban, while some retailers continue to sell banned products.
Researchers developed a new method to estimate the health risks of PFAS in drinking water. The study found that women are particularly at risk of decreased thyroid hormone T3 levels due to exposure. Around 4% of local women in Ronneby, Sweden, may experience a 10% drop in T3 levels.
A new study published in Environmental Research found that short, frequent walks in blue spaces significantly improve well-being and mood. Researchers measured participants' blood pressure and heart rate before, during, and after walks in a beach environment versus urban environments.
Researchers discovered unicellular green algae with enzymes that can convert commercially viable substances without generating co-substrate, using photosynthesis. This breakthrough has the potential to create a greener industry by producing substances at mild temperatures and in water.
Researchers at University of Córdoba successfully substitute up to 40% of conventional aggregates with granite sludge, maintaining mortar's durability and strength. The use of granite sludge reduces environmental harm and promotes sustainability in self-compacting concrete.
A recent study by Oregon State University finds that the state's occupational health monitoring system is not timely enough, resulting in a 2- to 3-year lag between hazard occurrence and data dissemination. The study suggests adopting state-specific health indicators to improve timeliness and relevance.
A new study has identified environmental factors contributing to childhood obesity, including exposure to smoking and air pollution. Areas with higher walkability were found to have lower BMI levels in children.
A University of Washington study reveals that 75% of US workers cannot work exclusively from home, putting them at increased risk of exposure to disease and other job disruptions. These workers are also more likely to be in lower-paid jobs, with some earning as little as $32,000 per year.
A new study from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health found no significant association between urban density and COVID-19 infection rates. However, it was linked to lower COVID-19 death rates, possibly due to better healthcare systems in densely populated areas. Larger metropolitan areas with closely linked counties are ...
The University of Pennsylvania's CEET will focus on air pollution, lung health, and environmental neuroscience with a strong emphasis on community engagement. The $8 million grant will support cutting-edge research and policy-making to improve the health of vulnerable individuals and communities.
Researchers found that brief exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals during liver development can prematurely age the epigenome, leading to accelerated aging and increased susceptibility to metabolic disorders. This study highlights the long-term effects of environmental exposures on health and disease susceptibility.
A new study from Regenstrief Institute shows that using electronic health information exchanges to prepopulate forms for notifiable disease reports increases reporting rates and completeness. This method facilitates public health surveillance, enabling quicker response to outbreaks and informing public health decisions.
The project aims to develop a computationally efficient model of viral spread to better understand the effectiveness of disease mitigation strategies. Funding from the CDC enabled the development of this model to support H-2A farm worker health and safety.
A study from China found that frontline healthcare professionals who were adequately protected with personal protective equipment (PPE) did not contract COVID-19 or develop immunity. The researchers emphasize the need for adequate PPE and training for healthcare professionals working in high-exposure environments.
A new study found that women living within six miles of oil and gas wells in California were 8-14% more likely to experience spontaneous preterm births. The study analyzed 225,000 births from 1998 to 2011 and focused on how exposure to wells may affect health outcomes.
A new study from the University of Georgia has found that exposure to a banned flame retardant can alter the genetic code in sperm, leading to major health defects in children. The research focuses on paternal exposure prior to conception and uses a unique combination of observational and laboratory approaches.
A Stanford-led study reveals that reducing the number of unused containers can be an effective means of mosquito control, with women and children playing key roles in implementing this approach. The researchers identified laundry buckets and tires as common breeding habitats for Aedes aegypti mosquitoes.
Elsevier has launched a free access special issue of curated content focused on biodiversity, highlighting the urgent need for climate action and protecting the planet. The collection features over 60 carefully selected journal articles and book chapters supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
A study of nearly 3 million California births found that living near active oil and gas wells may increase the risk of low birth weight babies, with rural residents being more affected. The study also found a slightly increased risk of small for gestational age babies in urban areas.
Researchers used silicone dog tags as passive environmental samplers to collect data on everyday chemical exposures in dogs and their owners. They found significant correlations between exposure levels for owners and pets, as well as similarities in urinary biomarkers.
A study published in Annals of Internal Medicine found that cloth masks can block droplet and aerosol contamination, reducing the risk of COVID-19 transmission. The researchers recommend using multiple layers of cotton cloth for maximum protection.
Researchers found elevated levels of gadolinium in Tokyo river water, particularly near treatment plants, highlighting the need for new policies and removal technologies as MRI become more widespread.
A new review links dozens of environmental chemicals to changes in the gut microbiome, associated with health challenges such as reproductive defects, Type 2 diabetes, and poor immune function. Exposure to bisphenols and phthalates has been linked to altered hormone metabolism and microbial shifts.
The Lancet review calls for guidelines and research agenda to ensure equitable and ethical use of AI in low- and middle-income countries. The recommendations focus on human-centered design, data protection, and regulatory standards.
The exposome concept captures diverse environmental factors affecting human health, including chemicals in air, water, and food. Recent technological advances and analytical tools are crucial for identifying unknown chemicals and their impact on health.
The BladeSense project has shown strong potential for advancing rotor blade health monitoring through real-time data collection. This technology could substantially save on lifecycle costs and provide new pathways for performance monitoring, using novel interferometric fibre optic shape measurement.
A study found that an optimal minimum legal age of 19 for non-medical cannabis use balances the risk of adverse outcomes with the potential benefits. This age limit is lower than previously recommended ages, but higher than the current age of 18 in Canada.
A new study from the University of Hawaii at Manoa found that strong relationships are key to influencing physical activity in older adults. Participants with higher educational attainment and a strong relationship with others were more likely to meet physical activity guidelines.
The American Journal of Preventive Medicine emphasizes the importance of addressing risks in correctional facilities and marginalized communities. Researchers outline guidelines to mitigate transmission and protect workers and prisoners, as well as caution about existing health disparities and potential exacerbation of stigma.
A new study from the University of Bath reveals that blockchain technology can improve food quality and ensure consumer safety by providing transparency throughout the supply chain. The system creates a record of actions that is difficult to change, allowing companies to offer data and reassurance about product provenance.
A new study led by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that the opening of a FreshDirect warehouse in Mott Haven, Bronx, increased truck and vehicle flow, leading to small increases in air and noise pollution. The researchers estimated increases of 0.06 dBA (noise) and 0.003 µg/m3 (black carbon air pollution).
A study at Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health found a strong association between long-term exposure to segregated neighborhoods and decreased processing speed in midlife. The study analyzed data from over 1,500 black participants and found that high segregation was linked to poorer cognitive function.
Long-term buprenorphine treatment is associated with improved health care outcomes, including lower prescription opioid use and opioid-related events. Patients with continuous treatment had significantly lower rates of overdose events, inpatient and emergency department services, and prescription opioids use compared to those who disco...
A recent study found that participants were more likely to choose non-alcoholic drinks when presented with eight options, including increasing the proportion of non-alcoholic drinks. The study suggests that interventions to encourage healthier food and drink choices may be effective by changing the relative availability of options.
Research found that gardeners report better general health, psychological wellbeing, and physical activity levels compared to non-gardeners. Access to private gardens and outdoor spaces also showed significant benefits for mental health.
Researchers found that 92% of employers believe public health professionals with climate change training will be in high demand in the next 5-10 years. Employers value skills such as knowledge of climate mitigation, health equity, and risk assessment. The study analyzed 16 years' worth of job postings to project future workforce needs.
A new commentary published in Annals of Internal Medicine emphasizes the importance of environmental cleaning during the pandemic. Environmental services personnel play a crucial role in preventing the spread of COVID-19, and their work is essential for patient safety.
A study estimates that 14.4 million workers face weekly and 26.7 million monthly exposure to infections in the workplace, highlighting the need for improved protective measures.
A new study predicts that US agricultural workers will experience double the number of unsafe days due to extreme heat by 2050, with health risks tripling. The research suggests that adapting working conditions, such as using lighter protective clothing and taking breaks, can mitigate these risks.
A zero-emissions Boston could avoid nearly 200 deaths each year, with significant reductions in cardiovascular and respiratory illness across the region. The city's climate policies would also save $1.7 billion in Suffolk County and $2.4 billion for the entire 75-square-mile zone.
The COVID-19 pandemic has seen a tripling of domestic violence reports in China's Hubei Province, with women performing most of the frontline healthcare work. Researchers call for governments to incorporate gender considerations into their response and leverage technology to support women's access to essential services.
Global experts call for international assistance as African nations battle COVID-19 and HIV. The authors argue that success in one country is limited if epidemics continue elsewhere.
A recent study by European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases found that paper towels significantly reduce virus contamination compared to hand dryers. The study simulated contaminated hands using paper towels and jet air dryers, finding that paper towels reduced viral dispersal to environmental surfaces by 5 times.
A public health education campaign targeting NYC nightlife venues aimed to increase awareness of the risk of opioid overdose due to fentanyl-laced cocaine. The pilot study found that 87% of bar owners had heard about fentanyl, but only 43% knew about naloxone.
A traditional vegetable diet rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory nutrients can lower the risk of premature birth. Consuming high amounts of carrots, cauliflower, broccoli, and other vegetables before conception helps women reach full term pregnancy.
A new study using wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) analyzes caffeine, tobacco, and alcohol consumption in a large university population, providing valuable data on psychotropic compound use. The findings highlight the utility of long-term monitoring networks for improving student health and identifying disease trends.
The review emphasizes the importance of natural daylight and air circulation in reducing disease transmission. Opening windows to improve airflow and admitting natural light can help prevent the spread of COVID-19.
The study found significant increases in antinuclear antibody prevalence in the US population, particularly among males and adolescents. The researchers suggest changes in lifestyle or environment may be involved in these increases.
Cancer drugs are detected in water systems due to human excretion and wastewater treatment facilities. Researchers urge proactive measures to identify potential gaps in knowledge regarding the consequences of anti-neoplastic exposure on aquatic organisms.
The study highlights the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on displaced populations, who are often stigmatized and blamed for disease spread. The authors share lessons learned from past epidemics to inform a more effective, inclusive COVID-19 response.
A new study from Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that ride-hailing trips increase the number of crashes for motorists and pedestrians at pick-up and drop-off locations. The research used data for individual ride-hailing trips and found no link between ride-hailing and cyclist or taxi crashes.
A recent study found that image-and-text health warning labels on alcoholic drinks and energy-dense snacks can significantly reduce consumption. Labels depicting bowel cancer were associated with the highest level of negative emotions, while those on high-density snacks were judged more acceptable.
A University of Helsinki study reveals significant differences in fearfulness among urban and rural dog populations. Socialisation in puppyhood, activity levels, and breed-specific factors all contribute to fearfulness in dogs.
Researchers at Stanford University explore viral and environmental characteristics that affect COVID-19 transmission via surfaces, air, and fecal matter. They propose a broader approach to understanding viruses to better predict their behavior in the environment.
The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) is launching a new COVID-19 worker training program to protect frontline responders' health. The program aims to provide virtual safety training and resources to employees at high risk of exposure, with the goal of preventing illness and reducing transmission.
Researchers at KAIST developed a novel wearable strain sensor that overcomes limitations of conventional sensors. The sensor demonstrates high sensitivity, flexibility, and stretchability while being environmentally stable, making it suitable for healthcare applications.