Articles tagged with Environmental Health
A new survey found that 514 teens were injured on the job, with injuries affecting daily activities for more than three days. The study emphasizes the importance of introducing safety training within school health curricula to empower teens and reduce work-related injuries.
A pilot research study led by Marina Bers explores how virtual environments can promote positive development in post-transplant adolescents and encourage adherence to treatment protocols. The study uses a three-dimensional virtual world called Zora, where children create and control their own identities and interact with others.
Researchers found that longer train trips lead to increased physiological and psychological stress, as well as impaired task completion. Commuter stress affects human health and well-being, with over 100 million Americans experiencing daily stress due to their commute.
Researchers at Columbia University will study the health effects of arsenic in groundwater, particularly in New England and South Asia. The $16.9M grant will investigate the geochemistry and exposure sources of arsenic, as well as its effects on children's health.
Tiny airborne particles, similar to nanoparticles, follow a rapid and efficient pathway from the nasal cavity to various regions of the brain in rats. The study found increased gene expression signaling inflammation and cellular stress response, but it is unclear if ultrafine particle buildup causes brain damage.
Researchers found a chemical compound in many air fresheners and deodorizing products may cause modest reductions in lung function. The study, published in Environmental Health Perspectives, analyzed blood concentrations of common volatile organic compounds and pulmonary function measures in a representative sample of adults.
Researchers will investigate the health effects of arsenic exposure in groundwater, particularly in New England and South Asia, with a focus on children's health. The grant renewal aims to mitigate public health problems associated with arsenic contamination.
Acquired susceptibility plays a crucial role in disease development, with environmental and genetic factors contributing to its acquisition. The study highlights the importance of understanding the interplay between these factors to develop effective prevention strategies.
A study by University of Cincinnati researchers found that over 75% of consumer paints in India, Malaysia, and China had dangerously high lead levels, exceeding U.S. regulations. The team calls for an urgent worldwide ban on lead-based paint to prevent future public health problems.
A UC Berkeley study found that in utero exposure to DDT is linked to lower developmental scores in children, while nursing was beneficial despite DDT transmission through breast milk. The study suggests that the benefits of nursing may outweigh the potentially harmful effects of DDT transmission.
Scientists at Rutgers have created a computerized model to understand the degree of harmful exposure in the immediate aftermath of the World Trade Center attacks. The model, combining satellite data and regional weather forecasts, provides a way to evaluate human exposure to aerosols released during the disaster.
The study presents a comprehensive overview of oral health research worldwide, highlighting the high risk of dental caries in rural children and adolescents. It emphasizes the importance of preventive efforts, education, and public awareness to improve oral health outcomes.
Research from eight countries highlights the need for improved oral health services, particularly in juvenile detention and low-income communities. Key findings include the high prevalence of dental caries among young children and the importance of parental education and access to oral health promotion services.
A USC study found that the environment plays a big role in women starting to smoke, while genetics are a stronger influence for men. The study suggests that societal interventions can help prevent smoking initiation and highlight the importance of peer influence and social networks.
Researchers found that people tend to consume a single unit of food when served in a small portion, despite the actual quantity being larger. This 'unit bias' helps explain how environmental factors influence eating habits and may contribute to obesity.
A 10-year study found that late career job loss significantly increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Individuals over 50 who lost their jobs were nearly twice as likely to experience cardiovascular events compared to those still employed.
A recent study calculates the risks of nanotechnology, emphasizing the need for rational work to understand and minimize adverse effects. The research highlights the importance of managing exposure to manufactured nano-sized particles, particularly through respiratory or skin routes.
The Penn CEET aims to improve environmental health through research and outreach, focusing on lung disease, endocrine systems, and gene-environment interactions. The center will collaborate with local communities to address pressing environmental concerns.
Researchers found that Caucasians with the K55R polymorphism had an accelerated breakdown of beneficial fatty acids called EETs, which play a protective role in the cardiovascular system. This increase in EET degradation is associated with higher coronary heart disease risk.
A study of 225 children exposed to at least five cigarettes a day found a significant relationship between cotinine levels and increases in acting out, anxiety, depression, and behavior problems. The study suggests that exposure to environmental tobacco smoke is a risk factor for child behavior problems.
Exposure to combustion-related urban air pollutants during pregnancy is linked to lower scores on mental development tests and a higher risk of developmental delay at age three. The study found that children exposed to the highest levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) scored significantly lower on cognitive tests.
TEEVE enables cost-effective cyberspace communication with full-body size views, suitable for training, entertainment, and healthcare applications. Researchers have tested the technology with dancers, achieving exciting results, and plan to expand its use in education, remote healthcare, and elderly care.
A survey of 141 physicians and medical students found that female respondents were more likely to perceive sex discrimination in surgery, citing workload considerations and lifestyle concerns as deterrents. The results suggest addressing these concerns to attract both men and women to surgery, but also highlight the need to confront a ...
A large family study has pinpointed genetic linkage in drug addiction, identifying genes that influence opioid dependence and its symptom cluster traits. The study provides a foundation for further research on the genetic factors contributing to substance dependence risk.
Researchers have developed a mass spectrometry method to detect norovirus particles, a category B bioterrorism agent. This technique can identify different types and strains of viruses in complex environmental samples without prior knowledge, making it ideal for detecting emerging infectious agents.
Children born preterm show cognitive and motor deficits, while early social environment plays a significant role in development. fMRI scans reveal distinct brain activation patterns related to medical and environmental risks.
A UC Davis study with mice found that even low levels of thimerosal can alter dendritic cell function and lead to abnormal immune responses. The study's findings suggest a link between thimerosal exposure and immune system dysfunction, potentially shedding light on the immunotoxic effects of this common preservative.
A study found that small increases in fine particle air pollution resulted in increased hospital admissions for heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and respiratory infections. Fine particles penetrate deep into the lungs, posing a significant health risk to elderly citizens.
A study at Duke University Medical Center found that genetic mutations can affect serotonin levels and glucose metabolism, increasing the risk of obesity and diabetes. Another study revealed that men with a certain gene mutation are more susceptible to stress-related health problems when caregivers for relatives with Alzheimer's disease.
A study by Columbia University researchers finds that living in neighborhoods with a mix of residential and commercial uses and access to public transportation can lower obesity rates. The research also suggests that subtle lifestyle changes repeated over time can have a significant impact on body size.
A recent study found that additive genetic factors contribute to variation in alcohol consumption among rhesus monkeys, accounting for 20% of total variation. Environmental effects are also significant, with mother-reared animals drinking significantly less than others.
A nationwide study published in Environmental Health Perspectives found that even very low levels of ozone increase the risk of premature death. The study suggests that further reductions in ozone pollution would benefit public health, even in areas that meet current regulatory standards.
David Michaels is recognized for his efforts to protect workers' health, particularly those exposed to toxic materials. He successfully advocated for stricter limits on exposure to beryllium and played a key role in establishing the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Act of 2000.
The NIH has launched two initiatives to identify the genetic and environmental underpinnings of common illnesses. The Genes and Environment Initiative will combine genetic analysis and environmental technology development, while a public-private partnership called GAIN will accelerate genome association studies with $5 million from Pfi...
Researchers identified a common cardiac sodium channel variant, SCN5A S1103Y, as a risk factor for sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) in African Americans. The study provides new insights into the genetic causes of SIDS and highlights the importance of understanding the interplay between genetic and environmental factors.
A recent study by Dr. Luisa Borrell at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health reveals a racial disparity in hypertension among Hispanics, suggesting that being Black within this ethnic group is associated with the highest prevalence of high blood pressure. The research highlights the importance of addressing health inequ...
A Tufts-led study will provide training and support to immigrant workers in Somerville, MA, to improve their health and safety on the job. The program will also launch a non-profit green cleaning cooperative to break down barriers of isolation faced by these workers.
New Zealand tops the list with strong commitment to environmental protection, while the US falls short on critical issues like renewable energy and greenhouse gas emissions. The report highlights the importance of sound policymaking and good governance in achieving successful pollution control and natural resource management.
Researchers found that using a low-level heat wrap therapy (CLHT) for three consecutive days significantly reduced pain intensity and improved pain relief, with benefits maintained in the follow-up period. The study showed CLHT to be a safe and effective alternative for treating acute low back pain.
The UK Biobank project and the American National Human Genome Research Institute project will gather information to study the interaction between genes and environment over time. The studies aim to identify new treatments for diseases such as cancer and heart disease, but critics raise concerns about privacy and data reliability.
A study found that genistein, a major soy component, disrupts ovarian development in newborn female mice. High doses of genistein were associated with infertility and subfertility, while lower doses caused abnormal ovary function.
A study of 2000 female flight attendants found that those experiencing sexual harassment were nearly three times more likely to report poor health and psychological distress. Almost half of all women surveyed had been sexually harassed by a colleague or superior.
Researchers developed a new cholera modeling approach that better explains past epidemics, suggesting human-to-human transmission is crucial for outbreak dynamics. The model incorporates the hyperinfectious state of the bacteria, which becomes more infectious when passing through a human host.
A new study finds that oil mist technology can reduce airborne hazards in concentrated swine feeding operations, improving indoor air quality and controlling emissions. The innovation provides a tool for animal producers to comply with regulations and mitigate public health risks associated with confined animal farming.
A recent study highlights the urgent need for consistent HIV prevention methods in prisons, despite international guidelines recommending similar healthcare standards. Experts argue that mass incarceration of non-violent drug-offenders needs review and should prioritize public health over punitive policies.
A major study by the European Society of Cardiology links chronic noise exposure to an increased risk of heart attacks, particularly in men and women under 70. The study found that general environmental noise increased risk by nearly 50% for men and three-fold for women, while workplace noise levels affected men's risk but not women's.
A USC-led study found that higher ozone levels during pregnancy are associated with lower birth weight and increased risk of intra uterine growth retardation. The researchers monitored ozone and carbon monoxide levels in Southern California communities and analyzed birth records from over 3,900 children.
A study found that diets rich in meat, refined starches, and sodium are associated with an increased risk of persistent coughs with phlegm. The 'meat-dim sum pattern' was positively linked to new onset symptoms, while the 'vegetable-fruit-soy pattern' showed a protective effect.
Researchers investigate which nanomaterial sizes, shapes, compounds, and coatings harm or kill cells. The aim is to develop non-toxic types using 'green' nanomaterials, addressing growing concerns about nanoparticle health impacts.
A recent study found that daily probiotic supplements reduced sick days among workers. The study, which involved 181 staff members, showed that workers taking L. reuteri probiotics reported significantly fewer sick days compared to those taking a placebo.
New research highlights the impact of environmental enrichment on addiction recovery, showing that social rank and stress can affect brain chemistry. Practitioners and family members must understand the importance of abstinence to support brain recovery.
Researchers found that a home-based environmental intervention significantly reduced asthma symptoms and associated healthcare use in inner-city children. The cost per symptom-free day was $25.57, offsetting the intervention's expenses.
Researchers found that brain regions beyond the injury site play a critical role in understanding behavioral deficits and assessing options for acceleration of recovery from stroke-related spatial neglect. Functional magnetic resonance imaging scans revealed activity changes in distant brain areas correlated with impairment severity.
Researchers warn that even low levels of environmental toxins like lead, trihalomethanes, radon, and tobacco smoke can cause serious health damage. No safe threshold exists for these toxins, emphasizing the need to restrict exposure to protect human health.
A large-scale study found that women experiencing burnout have elevated levels of fibrinogen and C-reactive protein (CRP), associated with increased cardiovascular disease risk. Men experiencing depression also showed higher levels of CRP and fibrinogen, linking emotional states to inflammation-related health problems
Researchers will investigate whether vitamin E and/or selenium can reduce skin and other cancers. The study aims to provide essential data on potential low-cost interventions for millions at risk of arsenic-induced cancers in Bangladesh and globally.
A new study shows that home-based environmental interventions can significantly reduce asthma symptoms and healthcare costs in children. The program, which targeted six major allergen classes, resulted in a 19% decrease in unscheduled clinic visits and a 13% reduction in albuterol inhaler use.
The National Children's Study will follow over 100,000 children from birth to age 21 to examine the impact of environmental factors on child health. The study aims to improve the lives of children in Queens and inform child health guidance and policy nationwide.
A recent survey of Latino poultry workers in western North Carolina found high rates of musculoskeletal injuries, with nearly half reporting pain in their hands or arms. The study also found significant differences in injury and illness rates among companies, highlighting the need for improved workplace safety measures.
The Human Factors and Ergonomics Society meeting showcased research on disaster preparedness, including robotics in search and rescue efforts. The meeting also explored topics such as patient safety, driving safety, and space exploration, highlighting the importance of human factors in these fields.