Environmental Health: Thoughts & Reflections

Our group collaborated on developing a chart of environmental exposures that included a variety of biological, chemical, and radiological exposures listed across 4 key categories. Identifying these exposures helped visualize that health risks in one place do exist in other areas. It's worrisome knowing there are so many more toxins and contaminants that people may touch or breathe in daily. I’m currently supporting a comprehensive training of young people around sexual and reproductive health (SRH) and we recently discussed the different factors that could influence people's desire (or lack of) to have children. Reflecting on these exposures, I can understand why some individuals might avoid or delay bringing a child into this world because this Earth is, unfortunately, a dangerous place. While there are many exposures shown below, there are more that could be added. For instance, healthcare practitioners could be exposed to HIV or other blood-borne diseases/ pathogens...

The environmental health and safety assessment tool is a useful itemized list that helps evaluate which areas of the home or which common objects in the home may be cause for environmental exposures that could negatively impact health. Upon completion of this brief assessment, my awareness around basic artifacts and areas in the home grew. This brought to the forefront of my mind the need for testing and proper ventilation of certain parts of the house; minimal usage of air fresheners and candles; and improved emergency preparedness . There seems to be appropriate ventilation throughout the house. Air fresheners are seldom used and scented candles are rarely burned since they’re mainly for aesthetics. Although, it’ll still be important to purchase aerosol or candle products that have less toxic ingredients to prevent fume inhalation. Furthermore, there needs to be a comprehensive emergency/disaster plan for the family to discuss and practice together.  Additionally, the tool h...