Articles tagged with Environmental Health
A study found that persistently present levels of unmetabolized folic acid in the population indicate that mandatory fortification may result in an excessive effect. Most Irish people already get enough folic acid from voluntarily fortified foods, suggesting mandatory policies may be unnecessary.
A study in Korea found that individuals with low income, education level, and unhealthy behaviors tend to not use gastric cancer screening services. Targeted interventions and public campaigns can help improve screening participation for these vulnerable populations.
A study found that women's stress levels increased when they believed in mammography's efficacy, while those coming in for diagnostic tests felt less stress as their belief grew. Healthcare providers should consider patient stage and tailor services to reduce stress.
Researchers found that adult fruit flies died after being exposed to carbon nanoparticles, while larvae showed no effects. The particles seemed to cause physical harm, such as clogging breathing holes and coating compound eyes.
Research finds that debt can increase the risk of being medically obese, as it limits leisure time activities and affects food choices. The study of over 9000 people shows a significant association between debt and obesity, independent of income, education, and occupation.
A new study found that 73% of consumer paint brands from 12 countries exceeded the US standard of 600 ppm for lead in paint, while 69% had levels over 10,000 ppm. The researchers call for a global ban on lead-based paint to protect over three billion people worldwide.
A study published in the Journal of Gerontology: Medical Sciences found that frailty in older adults is associated with a critical mass of abnormal physiological systems. The research suggests that prevention and treatment may be more effective if multiple systems are improved rather than just one, and highlights the importance of cons...
A study published in Pediatrics found that prenatal exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) can lower children's full-scale and verbal IQ scores. The study suggests that reducing air pollution exposure, particularly in urban areas, could have a positive impact on educationally meaningful IQ decreases.
A new study found that genetic predispositions can be expressed earlier in life through behavioral problems, while environmental influences can modify gene expression. Females may be more susceptible to certain environmental factors, which can encourage or inhibit the expression of genetic traits.
Researchers at Helmholtz Munich used new bioimaging techniques to show that hematopoietic progenitor cells are instructed by cytokines, steering their lineage choice. This discovery confirms the influence of environmental factors on cell differentiation and has important implications for optimizing therapeutic stem cell applications.
A new review article highlights the potential of nanomaterials for environmental remediation, with 45 sites globally identified for use in soil and groundwater cleanup. However, more research is needed to fully understand the technology's benefits and potential risks, particularly on a full-scale ecosystem-wide impact.
A new study found that women who deliver prematurely have higher levels of phthalates in their urine compared to those who carry to term. The researchers analyzed data from Mexican women and discovered a significant association between phthalate exposure and premature birth.
A commentary in JAMA explores how US healthcare's emphasis on providing services can lead to direct and indirect harm. The authors argue that this focus can cause excessive healthcare use and spending, diverting resources away from education and environmental quality.
A recent study finds that nicotine dependence has remained steady among adults in the US, while the proportion of addicted smokers has increased across generations. Younger women living in poverty are disproportionately affected, highlighting socioeconomic disparities in tobacco use.
Researchers found Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA) subways had the highest average noise levels in New York City, with levels high enough to increase the risk of noise-induced hearing loss. The study highlights the need for increased transit infrastructure maintenance and personal protection measures to reduce noise exposure.
A recent study found that teen contraceptive use declined between 2003 and 2007, despite no change in teen sexual activity. The authors suggest faltering HIV prevention efforts or inadequate sex education as contributing factors.
A small study found that people believe bottled water has health benefits, but are unsure of the extent. Convenience and taste were more influential factors for participants when choosing bottled water.
Exposure to low doses of BPA during development can affect female reproductive health in rats, with early onset of puberty and ovarian malformations observed. The study suggests a link between low-dose BPA exposure and fertility issues in females.
Researchers at UIC are conducting a study to assess the effectiveness of collaborative virtual environments in improving public health preparedness and response planning. The study, funded by a $1.6 million grant from the CDC, uses Second Life to train public health workers in emergency preparedness.
A recent review of contaminated waters found high concentrations of pharmaceuticals, including antibiotics, in natural and drinking waters. The study warns that increased farm usage of anti-infectives may augment levels in future agricultural wastewater, posing a risk to aquatic biota and human health.
The Early Autism Risk Longitudinal Investigation (EARLI) study will follow a cohort of up to 1,200 pregnant women who already have a child with autism to investigate early risk factors for Autism Spectrum Disorders. Researchers will collect data on possible environmental risk factors and their interplay with genetic susceptibility duri...
A new study from UC Davis found that retirement-aged Americans in lower-status occupations tend to have higher rates of hypertension. The researchers analyzed data from over 22,000 Americans and found a strong correlation between occupation and hypertension, suggesting that job history may be an important factor in understanding the de...
The Northeast Biodefense Center, a regional collaboration of major centers, will conduct interdisciplinary research on diagnostics, therapeutics, and vaccines to address emerging infectious diseases. The center has made significant contributions to global health, including the development of diagnostics for SARS and pandemic influenza.
Rates of diabetes among Ontario children rose by 3% per year from 1994 to 2004, according to an ICES study. The highest incidence rate was found in 10- to 14-year-olds, with genetic susceptibility and environmental factors like obesity contributing to the trend.
Scientists have identified a new arenavirus, Lujo virus, linked to a fatal hemorrhagic fever outbreak in Zambia and South Africa. Genetic analysis confirms the utility of high-throughput sequencing for pathogen discovery, enabling rapid detection and response to emerging viral diseases.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends annual private well testing for nitrate and microorganisms, particularly for infants under three months. Children are vulnerable to waterborne illnesses that can come from contaminated wells, and proper care is essential to prevent contamination.
A new Harvard study found that drinking from polycarbonate bottles increased urinary BPA levels by 69%, suggesting that these containers release the chemical into liquid consumed in sufficient amounts. The study suggests that heating liquids in polycarbonate bottles may further increase BPA leaching.
Researchers found that giving rats living in isolation the opportunity to build nests led to faster and more complete healing of burn injuries than isolation-reared rats without nest-building materials. This effect was associated with altered gene expression in stress-associated brain structures.
Researchers will evaluate health and monetary benefits of green, affordable housing for low-income residents, comparing data before and after moving. They expect significant improvements in respiratory, cardiovascular, neurological, and mental health outcomes.
A new study has found a positive association between obesity and allergies in children and adolescents, with obese kids being 26% more likely to have allergies. The study analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) and found that IgE levels were higher among obese children.
Countries including US, Canada, Japan, and European Union agree on globally coordinated scientific recommendations for alternative toxicity testing methods. This will reduce the number of animals needed for product safety testing, improving animal welfare.
A new study found that a novel compound decreases rats' preference for cocaine-associated environments during subsequent tests. This process is called extinction learning, where the brain creates new associations instead of retrieving old ones.
UC Davis researchers found that low levels of PCBs alter brain cell development and excitability, explaining the association between PCB exposure and behavioral deficits in children. The studies show how PCBs affect dendritic plasticity, a key characteristic of neuronal development.
Substituting water for sugar-sweetened beverages can eliminate an average of 235 excess calories per day among children and adolescents, potentially preventing childhood obesity. The study suggests that this simple replacement has no detrimental effects on nutrition.
A study of 533 American women found that those with blood lead concentrations above 8μg/dL were three times more likely to die of coronary heart disease. The research adds to the existing evidence on the adverse effects of lead on health, particularly among older cohorts exposed to higher levels of environmental lead.
Astrocytes, supportive brain cells, produce inflammatory mediators in response to viral infection. The study provides new insights into the complex mechanisms of inflammation and has significant implications for diagnosis and treatment of brain infections.
Researchers found two common SNPs associated with poorer lung function in children, which may alter SOD3 expression levels. This study identifies a genetic target for healthy lung development during childhood, potentially leading to the development of medication to foster optimal lung growth.
Research suggests that global warming will worsen health problems like heat-related mortality and diarrheal diseases due to climate change. The US needs an estimated $200 million in annual funding to study these impacts and develop protective measures.
A pilot study found potentially hazardous chemicals in hospital cleaning products, including quaternary ammonium chlorides and glycol ethers. The study highlights the importance of protecting workers and others from exposure to cleaning hazards, particularly in poorly ventilated spaces.
UIC researchers are conducting a study to determine the health effects associated with recreational activities on Chicago's waterways. The CHEERS study will establish water quality standards for people who enjoy activities on the waterway and measure actual pathogens in the water that cause disease.
A new study found that a rigorous environmental cleaning intervention can reduce the transmission of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and vancomycin-resistant Enterococci (VRE) in hospital intensive care units (ICUs). The multi-modal cleaning protocol reduced MRSA acquisition by 61%, while VRE acquisition decreased by...
A study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that a higher density of 'healthy' food outlets is associated with lower BMI and obesity rates in New York City. The study surveyed over 13,000 adults and found that unhealthy food stores were not significantly linked to higher BMI or obesity.
Global fisheries are in crisis due to overfishing, threatening food security in poorer countries and coastal communities. The recommendation to increase fish consumption for health benefits is not environmentally sustainable.
Researchers found that children at high risk of obesity who live near parks are more likely to participate in walking activities. Parks within a half mile of their home showed the strongest association with girls walking to school and boys engaging in leisure walking, increasing by 60% for each additional park. The study suggests that ...
A study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health found that work stress among urban police officers is significantly associated with adverse mental and physical health outcomes, including depression, anxiety, and intimate partner abuse. The study identified five major categories of stressors, including exposure to criti...
A University of Montreal study reveals that over 60% of Quebec's manufacturing sector workers are exposed to noise levels exceeding the norm, increasing work-related accidents and road collisions. Workers with hearing losses face a 7% greater risk of injury.
A study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health identified common hazardous conditions in home healthcare settings, including environmental and physical hazards. The research highlights the need for simple interventions to mitigate these risks and promote patient safety.
A high-density of fast food outlets was associated with a 3-pound weight increase and 0.8-inch waist circumference rise among frequent eaters. In contrast, high-walkability neighborhoods were linked to a 2.7-pound weight loss and 0.6-inch waist size decrease.
The 2006 California heat wave had a significant impact on morbidity, with dramatic increases in emergency department visits and hospitalizations reported. The study found that older residents and children were particularly vulnerable to heat-related illnesses, highlighting the need for targeted public education and preparedness efforts.
A study by American Academy of Neurology reveals that young smokers are 2.7 times more likely to develop multiple sclerosis than non-smokers. Early smoking is identified as a key environmental factor that can be avoided to reduce the risk of the disease.
A new study found that a specially designed sensory environment can reduce anxiety levels in children during dental visits, even for those with developmental disabilities. The adapted setting reduced anxious behavior by an average of 55% compared to traditional dental offices.
A systematic review of high-quality trials found exercise to be significantly effective in preventing new episodes of low-back problems. Meanwhile, popular prevention methods such as reduced lifting programs and ergonomic interventions were ineffective.
A new letter in JAMA contests an earlier study's associations between bisphenol A and various health issues, citing statistical limitations. The authors conclude that the findings could be due to chance rather than real health concerns.
A Northwestern Memorial study found that integrated team training and pre-operative discussions significantly improved staff communication and teamwork, reducing operating room errors. The study revealed a direct correlation between enhanced teamwork and a safer, more efficient operating environment.
Thomas Robertson is researching the consequences of American rural development in Nepal, while Seth Tuler focuses on improving environmental health communications in Thailand. Their work aims to better understand the impacts of science and technology on humanity.
Research found that bar workers' symptoms improved after a smoking ban in Scotland, with significant reductions in respiratory and sensory symptoms. The study also showed benefits for smokers themselves, highlighting the importance of addressing environmental tobacco smoke exposure at home.
Researchers found a direct link between vitamin D and a genetic variant associated with multiple sclerosis (MS). Vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy may increase the risk of offspring developing MS later in life.
Researchers discovered a new cause of airway irritation and wheezing after exposure to ozone, a common urban air pollutant. They found that high amounts of hyaluronan, a sugar molecule, are responsible for narrowing the airways.
A qualitative study in five US medical schools revealed serious problems with relational culture affecting medical faculty vitality, professionalism, and general productivity linked to retention. The study emphasizes the need for greater support and trust in medical academia.
A study by Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health identified key risk factors that delayed or prolonged the evacuation from the World Trade Center Towers on September 11. The researchers found that lack of awareness and experience, as well as personal concerns and poor footwear, contributed to time delays.