Articles tagged with Environmental Health
A study of over 2,200 children found that high ambient temperatures are associated with lower connectivity in key brain networks, potentially impacting processes such as attention and memory. The association was strongest on the day before a brain scan and decreased on subsequent days.
Research suggests that higher levels of essential minerals such as copper, manganese, and vitamin B12 during pregnancy may reduce the risk of developing high blood pressure in middle age. The study analyzed data from over 500 women and found a significant association between these mineral levels and lower blood pressure risk.
Researchers Garett Sansom and Lindsay Sansom will evaluate soil conditions in Settegast and Lakewood neighborhoods for cancer-causing heavy metals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. The project aims to identify residents' environment-related concerns and develop a better understanding of local priorities and challenges.
A study published in Aging (Aging-US) found associations between several environmental exposures and epigenetic aging in a large sample of US adults. Cadmium, lead, and cotinine were linked to faster biological aging, increasing the risk of age-related diseases such as heart disease and cancer.
A Rutgers University study found that people are exposed to over 100 chemicals through personal care products daily, with varying health concerns across product categories. Researchers recommend practical steps for consumers to reduce exposure, such as using fewer products and choosing safer alternatives.
Research from Keck School of Medicine of USC found that mothers with high prenatal psychosocial stress and depressive symptoms developed higher blood pressure during the first year postpartum. Social cohesion during pregnancy was also associated with lower blood pressure, suggesting a protective factor.
A study from the University of Missouri found that rural first-time moms are more likely to stop breastfeeding due to a lack of practical knowledge, community support, and access to lactation consultants. The research aims to improve support and resources for new mothers in rural areas.
Researchers from the University of Southern Denmark found that tattooed individuals are more frequently diagnosed with skin and lymphoma cancers compared to those without tattoos. The study suggests that chronic inflammation in the lymph nodes triggered by tattoo ink may lead to abnormal cell growth and an increased risk of cancer.
A new study found that health department workforce roles are comparatively underpaid and have lower job requirements compared to the private sector. The findings highlight recruitment and retention challenges for health departments, particularly for leadership and management positions.
Emissions from SUVs and light-duty trucks cause 90% of nitrogen dioxide-related deaths, with suburban driving linked to greatest health damages. The study's findings inform geographically targeted transportation policies and climate action plans for Boston and cities nationwide.
Researchers found that polymers used as flame retardants can break down into dozens of smaller molecules, causing mitochondrial dysfunction and developmental harm. The study also detected these pollutants in soil, air, and dust near electronic waste recycling facilities.
A recent study identified capacity gaps as a significant barrier to sustaining SNAP-Ed programs in schools. Designating school-community partnership coordinators and tailoring solutions to unique community needs can enhance program sustainability.
The Center for Achieving Resilience in Climate and Health (C-ARCH) will identify ways to build resilience, design evidence-based solutions, and train scientists to lead the response. C-ARCH aims to address the devastating health impacts of climate change worldwide.
Researchers developed a first-of-its-kind nanosensor capable of detecting Fe(II) and Fe(III) in living plants with high spatial and temporal resolution. This innovation enables real-time non-destructive iron tracking, optimizing plant nutrient management and improving crop health.
Research by University of Missouri researchers uncovers microplastic pollution generated by polymer-coated fertilizers, threatening human and animal health. The study suggests biodegradable alternatives and effective stormwater management to mitigate the risks associated with PC-CRFs.
A study by Florida Atlantic University investigated how removing dead wood could reduce wildfire risks and enhance carbon storage. The research found that combining physical harvesting with thinning significantly reduced wildfire risks, while lowering carbon emissions and offering carbon sequestration through products like biochar.
Researchers used advanced molecular tools to survey health status of endangered Indiana bats, identifying microbiome changes resulting from parasitic infections. The analysis revealed that bats with high loads of a protozoan parasite had a corresponding proliferation of certain bacteria.
A new study by Carnegie Mellon University researchers found a statistically significant relation between air lead concentration and infant mortality. Higher concentrations of lead in the air caused higher levels of infant mortality in infants' first month and first year, suggesting both in utero and environmental exposures matter.
A new study published in The Lancet Digital Health found that accelerated ageing in specific organs can predict diseases across the entire body. Organ ageing rates were linked to increased risks of various diseases, including cardiovascular disease, respiratory infections, and dementia.
A study led by Alexandria Marquardt suggests that Virginia's oyster restoration practices are effective in increasing fishery sustainability and supporting local economies. The research shows that shell replenishment activities, combined with rotational harvests, result in improved reef structure and increased commercial harvests.
A new study from Western New England University reveals that long-term grape consumption significantly impacts muscle health, with notable benefits for both men and women. Grapes modify gene expression in muscle, potentially offering a new approach to muscle maintenance.
Researchers found that combining ultraviolet light with chlorine significantly enhances toxin degradation in water without generating harmful byproducts. The study suggests using UV/chlorine as a final barrier against toxins from algal blooms, minimizing unintended toxic consequences.
Researchers at the Technical University of Denmark have found that adding biochar to chicken feed can significantly reduce campylobacter levels in free-range chickens. The study, published in Poultry Science, demonstrates an 80% reduction in campylobacter and suggests a potential tool for improving public health.
Researchers found that squat toilets release higher concentrations of bacteria than bidet toilets, but ventilation fans significantly lower these levels. Installing efficient exhaust fans can effectively reduce bioaerosol concentrations and exposure risks for the public.
Three University of Arizona Health Sciences faculty members have received career development awards to support their research. Erika Austhof will study the role of weather and ecological drivers in salmonella transmission, while Kristin Huntoon will investigate a drug for treating glioblastomas. Celina Valencia will examine the link be...
Citizen scientists can join world-renowned microplastic expert Professor Claire Gwinnett on an expedition to monitor microplastic pollution in basking shark feeding sites. The expeditions will use a new app with AI analysis to categorize plastic samples, providing valuable data on microplastic levels and health impacts on sharks.
A cross-sectional study found that perceived stress, inadequate social support, racial discrimination, and neighborhood deprivation negatively impacted systemic and tumor immunity in Black women. These findings may inform prevention and public health interventions for cancer health disparities.
A new study from the University at Buffalo measures neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admissions and satellite-based air pollution data, finding that newborns exposed in the last month of pregnancy to higher levels of NO2 have a 30-35% higher risk of NICU admission and an 11-22% increased risk associated with PM2.5.
A new study reveals that people may be exposed to unhealthy levels of airborne pollutants inside their homes, even if the outdoor air quality is good. Researchers used low-cost sensors and innovative techniques to compare particulate matter in three homes, finding significant differences in PM levels.
Researchers found that long-term yogurt intake was associated with lower rates of proximal colon cancer positive for Bifidobacterium, a bacterial species found in yogurt. The study showed that higher yogurt consumption over time may protect against colorectal cancer through changes in the gut microbiome.
A new study by Silent Spring Institute reveals how California's Proposition 65 law has driven companies to reformulate products, reducing the use of toxic chemicals and promoting safer consumer goods. The research found that companies prioritize eliminating Prop 65 chemicals altogether to avoid warnings and litigation.
A new study reveals that postnatal exposure to tobacco smoke can alter the way genes are expressed, increasing the risk of diseases such as asthma and cancer. The study found 11 regions associated with second-hand smoke exposure, six of which are linked to smoking-related diseases.
A new study suggests adjusting VAT rates on food groups based on health and environmental impacts could lead to healthier diets, reducing cases of diet-related diseases. The proposal aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions and generate significant revenue for governments.
Researchers at University of California, Merced are using wastewater-based epidemiology to track nicotine use in San Joaquin Valley communities. The project aims to determine trends and levels of nicotine use through chemicals in wastewater, providing valuable insights for public health agencies and tobacco-control researchers.
The new method enables accurate detection of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and their derivatives (PACs) in placental samples, providing critical insights into maternal and fetal health. This breakthrough could inform public health measures and improve fetal and maternal health outcomes.
A Michigan Medicine-led study suggests that living in disadvantaged communities may decrease the length of time a person can survive with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) by up to 37%. The study found that patients from more resourced areas tended to live longer, possibly due to better access to care and reduced caregiver burnout. T...
Research reveals that even short-term exposure to high levels of particulate matter air pollution impairs cognitive functions such as selective attention and emotion recognition. This study highlights the urgent need for stricter air quality regulations and public health measures to combat the harmful effects of pollution on brain health.
A novel underwater light system, UZELA, enhances local zooplankton density and increases feeding rates of coral, making them stronger and more resilient against environmental threats. The device can be powered for half a year on a single battery and can optimize a coral's feeding time by operating for one hour after dusk.
New studies reveal lasting impact of PTSD on Vietnam veterans, linking combat to cardiovascular disease and chronic health issues. Veterans with PTSD or sub-threshold conditions face significant psychological and physical health challenges, including heart disease, arthritis, sleep apnea, and gastroesophageal reflux disease.
A study by the University of Gothenburg found that Swedish pharmacy personnel report a deteriorating patient safety climate. Pharmacists gave lower ratings for teamwork, job satisfaction, and management, with only 37% having a positive outlook on working conditions. The study suggests that changes in the work environment, including inc...
A recent study suggests that prolonged exposure to low-dose traffic-derived PM2.5 particles can cause fatty liver disorder in mice. The study found changes in liver function, inflammation, and scar tissue formation, highlighting the potential health risks of air pollution on the liver.
The study discovered new microbial species and never-before-reported metagenomes from African sites, shedding light on the importance of geography in shaping microbiome differences. The research highlights the need for site- and region-specific approaches to gut health interventions.
The Tule River Tribe is facing mounting environmental hazards such as wildfire, drought, and flooding. A new study sheds light on how a range of strategies can address these compounding hazards and achieve the community's goals to strengthen its physical, mental, spiritual, and environmental health.
A recent study by Max Planck Institute researchers analyzed Brazil Nut tree samples to understand genetic diversity and population dynamics. The findings show a drastic decline in genetic diversity over the last 20,000 years, but areas with Indigenous management exhibit more complex genetic backgrounds.
The TARIPH Centre will conduct patient-centric translational research on respiratory health in collaboration with nine institutions, focusing on factors unique to Asia. The five-year programme aims to provide a clearer understanding of lung disease in Asians and develop effective national strategies for improvement.
A new project, GP4Streets, provides tailored 'greening prescriptions' for UK streets to adapt to local climate challenges. Communities will be equipped with monitoring tools and DIY greening kits to improve air quality, temperature, and biodiversity.
Researchers at Chung-Ang University have developed a novel hydrovoltaic device that can produce up to a few tens of microwatts and responds quickly to evaporation-driven changes in water flow, making it suitable for fire detection. The device also exhibits excellent stability over extended periods.
A study found that nearly 75% of US counties experienced major power outages alongside severe weather events between 2018-2020. Severe precipitation and heat were most common triggers for outages, with regional patterns varying across the country.
A study found that large-scale power outages commonly occur alongside severe weather events in the US, particularly during heavy precipitation and heat. The researchers suggest that understanding patterns of co-occurring outages and severe weather events is crucial for developing mitigation and response tactics.
A study by University of Oregon economists found that increased glyphosate use in genetically modified crop counties is associated with lower birthweights and early births. Glyphosate exposure was found to have a significant impact on infants expected to be at the lowest birthweight end of the scale.
A study published in One Earth found that smaller fish species are more nutritious, lower in mercury, and less susceptible to overfishing. This discovery has implications for biodiversity conservation and public health worldwide.
China's particulate matter emissions have followed an environmental Kuznets curve, peaking in the mid-1990s. However, finer PM fractions and carbonaceous components have increased due to shifts in industrial energy usage and residential sector transitions. This poses new challenges for air quality policies.
Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology found that biochar significantly reduces DDT uptake by earthworms in contaminated soil, halving the toxin's presence. This method could enable farming on land deemed unusable due to environmental risks.
A Politecnico study proposes a global model that optimizes agricultural and water resources, making the EAT-Lancet diet a sustainable possibility. The model suggests crop redistribution and trade flow improvements could reduce global cropland by 37-40% and irrigation water use by 78%.
A randomized controlled study among NYC girls found that reading a book on puberty can lead to increased knowledge and positive attitudes towards physical activity during periods. The study, published in BMC Public Health, suggests that targeted puberty education can have significant impacts on young girls' health outcomes.
Exposure to air pollution during the three months before pregnancy is associated with higher childhood obesity risk up to two years after birth. The study found that women with higher levels of PM2.5 and PM10 had children with a higher BMI and related obesity risk factors.
A new analysis by Silent Spring Institute found nearly a third of the US population has been exposed to unregulated contaminants in their drinking water. Hispanic and Black communities are more likely to have poorer water quality and higher exposures to PFAS.
A cutting-edge molecular approach identifies three distinct clusters of children with metabolic complications, highlighting the importance of prenatal environment and exposure to industrial chemicals. The study provides a better understanding of biological pathways involved in metabolic health, beyond traditional clinical markers.
Tohono Oôdham Community College and the University of Arizona Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health have partnered to provide a direct transfer pathway for students to earn a Bachelor of Science in Public Health. This partnership aims to empower Indigenous public health leaders and expand educational opportunities, particular...
A survey of residents affected by the 2021 Marshall Fire found that those living near burned structures experienced frequent headaches, sore throats, and coughs. Researchers found that visible ash in homes increased the likelihood of reporting these symptoms, which improved with cleaning and HVAC system changes.