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Definition and importance -

Environmental health is multifaceted and greatly impacts humans and their health. It's important to understand what it's comprised of and its potential impacts in order to help prevent diseases and create health-supportive environments.

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Key areas of environmental health -

This field covers air and water quality, chemical safety, and climate change, among other areas. It aims to minimize environmental risks to human health.

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Global impact -

Environmental health affects each and every one of us in small and sometimes large ways. It is a significant worldwide concern and organizations like WHO (World Health Organization) are working relentlessly to address challenges and improve public health. 

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Key environmental pollutants: Air pollutants -

Common air pollutants include particulate matter, ozone, and nitrogen oxides. These pollutants can cause respiratory and cardiovascular problems.

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Water contaminants -

In contaminated water you can find things like lead, arsenic, and pathogens that can lead to diseases such as cholera and dysentery. Clean drinking water is essential for public health.

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Soil and noise pollution -

Heavy metals and pesticides in soil can harm human health, while noise pollution can cause stress and hearing loss. Both types of pollution have long-term health impacts that will be further discussed in subsequent slides.

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Air pollution and health effects: particulate matter (PM2.5) -

PM2.5 particles can cause severe respiratory issues as they are small enough to penetrate the lungs and bloodstream. Longer-term worries exist as these particles can lead to chronic asthma and even bronchitis. 

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Ozone impact -

Ground-level ozone can contribute to an irritation of the airways and cause asthma symptoms to worsen. It is a major component of smog and poses significant health risks.

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Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) -

NOx gases contribute to the formation of smog and acid rain, which can harm respiratory health. Reducing NOx emissions is essential for improving air quality and overall health.

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Water pollution and health risks: common water contaminants -

Contaminants in water sources can include bacteria, viruses, and chemicals. Safe drinking water is critical to prevent waterborne diseases such as diarrhoeal diseases, cholera, shigella, typhoid, hepatitis A and E, and poliomyelitis.

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Preventive measures -

Proper sanitation, wastewater treatment, and pollution control can significantly reduce water contamination. Public awareness and governmental policies play a key role.

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Soil pollution and its impact on health: sources of soil pollution -

Soil pollution often comes from industrial waste, pesticides, and heavy metals. These pollutants can enter the food chain, posing severe health risks.

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Health effects -

Exposure to contaminated soil can cause various health problems, including cancer and developmental issues. Children are particularly vulnerable.

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Mitigation strategies -

Remediation techniques, such as soil washing and phytoremediation, can help clean contaminated soil. Preventing soil pollution requires the regulation of pollutants.

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Noise pollution: sources of noise pollution -

Noise pollution has been linked to various health issues and typically comes from things like traffic, industrial activities, and urban development.

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Health impacts -

Noise pollution can lead to hearing loss, sleep disturbances, and increased stress levels. It can aslo cause cardiovascular issues.

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Mitigation and management -

Awareness of noise pollution is the first step. Also, avoiding noisy leisure activities can help. Instead, opt for transportation like bicycles or electric vehicles instead of a car. It's also important the government takes measures to ensure correct noise management.

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Climate change and health: impact on disease patterns -

Climate change can alter the distribution of vector-borne diseases such as malaria and dengue. These warmer temperatures can create more favorable conditions for disease vectors.

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Heat stress and health -

Increased temperatures from climate change can lead to heat stress, dehydration, and heatstroke. The most vulnerable populations include the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions. Be sure to stay hydrated and out of direct sunlight.

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Long-term health outcomes -

Climate change impacts food security, clean water availability, and air quality which can all lead to long-term health issues. Ensuring you are addressing climate change is crucial for public health and well-being overall.

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Extreme weather events: health risks of hurricanes -

Hurricanes can cause injuries, promote waterborne diseases, and even further mental health issues. Effective communal and individual disaster preparedness can help to mitigate these risks.

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Impact of floods -

Severe flooding can lead to water contamination, injuries, and the spread of infectious diseases. It is essential to improve flood management systems and be knowledgeable about the implications of not acting quickly. 

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Heatwaves -

These prolonged heatwaves can increase mortality rates, particularly among vulnerable populations. Public health measures can help protect communities during extreme heat events.

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Chemical exposures: asbestos and health -

Asbestos exposure can cause lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. Banning asbestos use and safe removal is an essential part of building healthy lives and communities.

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BPA (Bisphenol A) -

BPA, often found in plastics, can disrupt endocrine functions and affect reproductive health. Reducing BPA exposure is important for long-term health.

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Pesticides -

Pesticide exposure is linked to various health issues, including cancer and neurological disorders. Be sure to use safer alternatives and take protective measures as they can greatly reduce risks.

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Indoor air quality: common indoor pollutants -

Indoor pollutants include mold, radon, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Poor indoor air quality can lead to serious respiratory issues and allergies.

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Health implications -

Exposure to indoor pollutants can lead to asthma, lung cancer, and other health problems. Ensuring proper ventilation and using air purifiers can improve indoor air quality.

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Mitigation -

Regular cleaning, avoiding smoking indoors, and using low-VOC products can help reduce indoor air pollution.

Sources: (Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion) (EPA) (UNDRR) (Iberdrola) (CDC)

See also: Deadly fishing methods that destroy the environment

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