Environmental Risks

04 Aug

Posted at 16:45h in Author Interviews, Columbia, Environmental Risks

MedicalResearch.com Interview with:

Ellen B. Bannon, MPH

PhD Student, Department of Environmental Health Sciences

Columbia Mailman School of Public Health

[caption id="attachment_75435" align="alignleft" width="200"]Ellen Bannon Ellen Bannon[/caption]

MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What are the main findings?

Ms. Bannon: Lithium is an increasingly important element thanks to its use in rechargeable batteries and the green energy transition. However, we know relatively little about how people are exposed to lithium in their everyday lives. In many areas of the United States, lithium is present in groundwater and drinking water due to natural weathering processes, but few studies have quantified human exposure to lithium. Our study addresses this gap by measuring lithium in household tap water and urine samples from participants in the Strong Heart Family Study across Tribal communities in Arizona, Oklahoma, North Dakota, and South Dakota. This approach parallels earlier work examining other naturally occurring groundwater contaminants — a framework explored in this MedicalResearch.com overview of how naturally occurring contaminants in drinking water affect human health even at low exposure levels.

Our main findings were threefold. First, household drinking water samples frequently exceeded the United States Geological Survey health-based screening level of 10 µg/L, with 100% and 93% of samples exceeding the screening level in Arizona and North Dakota/South Dakota, respectively. Both water and urine lithium levels were highest in Arizona and lowest in Oklahoma. Second, household drinking water is an important contributor to internal lithium exposure — water lithium concentrations were significantly associated with urinary lithium levels and explained approximately 29% of variation in urinary lithium. Finally, urinary lithium levels remained stable between our urine sampling periods (2006–2009 and 2022–2024), suggesting that environmental lithium exposure has remained persistent over time.

31 Jul

Posted at 09:07h in Environmental Risks

Winnipeg homeowners know that the weather can be unpredictable. From freezing winter temperatures to warm summer days, your HVAC system works hard to keep your home comfortable throughout the year. While many people focus on HVAC maintenance for energy savings and system performance, its impact on family health is just as important.

A properly maintained HVAC system helps improve indoor air quality, reduce allergens, control humidity, and create a healthier living environment. Since families spend a significant amount of time indoors, ensuring that the air circulating through the home is clean and comfortable can make a meaningful difference in overall well-being. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, indoor air can be two to five times more polluted than outdoor air — making regular HVAC maintenance one of the most practical steps homeowners can take for family health. For a closer look at how mold and airborne contaminants affect respiratory health, see this overview of mold exposure and respiratory health.

Here are 10 ways proper HVAC maintenance helps protect your family's health during Winnipeg's changing seasons.

[caption id="attachment_75350" align="aligncenter" width="500"]home-hvac-winnipeg-pexels Photo by FOX[/caption]

06 Apr

Posted at 14:46h in Environmental Risks, Pediatrics
MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_73123" align="alignleft" width="200"]Lara McKenzie, PhDPrincipal investigator, Center for Injury Research and Policy Nationwide Children’s Hospital Columbus, OH Dr. McKenzie[/caption] Lara McKenzie, PhD Principal investigator, Center for Injury Research and Policy Nationwide Children’s Hospital Columbus, OH MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Kids are curious and explore their environments by tasting, touching, and mimicking adults. Kids don’t read labels, nor do they understand hazardous or dangerous ingredients. Packaging is usually colorful and attractive to kids and they are able to operate dispensing systems that are not child-resistant easily. Plus, household cleaning products are ubiquitous in the home. Prior safety efforts rely on adults to lock or store products safely each and every use and we know that is not routinely or consistently done. The consistently high number of household cleaning product-related injuries sustained by the youngest children and new products that have entered the marketplace in the past decade highlights the need for stronger product packaging standards, with emphasis on ensuring that spray bottles and other commonly accessible containers meet child-resistant packaging requirements.

02 Jan

Posted at 15:31h in Author Interviews, Environmental Risks
MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_71921" align="alignleft" width="150"]Wenhui Qiu, PhDAssociate Professor School of Environmental Science and Engineering Southern University of Science and Technology Shenzhen, China Dr. Wenhui Qiu[/caption] Wenhui Qiu, PhD Associate Professor School of Environmental Science and Engineering Southern University of Science and Technology Shenzhen, China [caption id="attachment_71922" align="alignleft" width="121"] Dr. Chunmiao Zheng[/caption] Chunmiao Zheng, PhD AGU Fellow, Chair Professor Hydrologic Science Eastern Institute of Technology Ningbo, China       MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a class of artificially synthesized chemicals widely used in industrial production and consumer goods manufacturing. These substances are persistent in the environment, can accumulate through the food chain, and enter the human body and build up over time, posing a potential threat to health. As an important component of the global diet, marine fish may serve as a major source of PFAS intake for humans. However, the contribution of marine fish as a source of PFAS exposure and the associated health risks still lack systematic assessment on a global scale.

14 Nov

Posted at 11:37h in Addiction, addiction-treatment, Environmental Risks
[caption id="attachment_71431" align="aligncenter" width="500"]Does Climate Shape Recovery Photo by Jean van der Meulen[/caption] Recovery isn’t just about what happens inside therapy sessions or support groups. It’s also about what surrounds you when you step outside those doors. The air you breathe, the light on your skin, the rhythm of your days, all of it plays a quiet but measurable role in how you heal. While it might sound poetic, science has a lot to say about the way climate and setting affect the brain during recovery, from mood regulation to motivation and sleep quality. The Energy Of The Air You Breathe It’s no coincidence that people feel lighter when they’re near the ocean or calmer in the mountains. Air quality, humidity, and temperature each influence how our bodies function, which in turn affects the mind’s ability to regulate mood. A person working through recovery in a humid coastal climate may find that their breathing feels easier and their body relaxes more readily, while those in dry, cool air often experience improved energy and focus. When you’re recovering, your nervous system is recalibrating, and the smallest sensory cues can make a big difference. Studies have shown that access to clean air, greenery, and natural light helps regulate cortisol levels, the body’s main stress hormone. When those levels stabilize, people tend to feel more grounded, alert, and capable of processing the deeper emotional work that recovery requires. This is why some of the most respected treatment programs are situated in places with abundant natural beauty, offering a real physiological advantage beyond aesthetics.

25 Oct

Posted at 08:30h in Author Interviews, Environmental Risks, Health Care Systems

Clean, treated water is central to nearly every process in a medical environment. It drives sterilization systems, supports laboratory analysis, and ensures the integrity of equipment used in treatment and testing. Poor-quality water can damage sterilizers, interfere with chemical reactions, or lead to inaccurate diagnostic results. In patient care, water...

23 Oct

Posted at 17:30h in Author Interviews, Environmental Risks, Immunotherapy
[caption id="attachment_71088" align="aligncenter" width="500"]hvac-clean-indoor-air Freepx image[/caption]

Indoor Air Quality and the Effects of Staying Indoors for a Long Time

When air is too dry, it dehydrates the body’s first line of defense — your mucous membranes. These thin layers inside your nose, mouth, and airways rely on moisture to trap and flush out viruses and bacteria. Without enough humidity, they crack and thin out, leaving you more vulnerable to respiratory infections and allergies. Homes with older HVAC systems often experience this issue, since air conditioning can dry out indoor air faster than you realize. This is one of the subtle effects of dry air that weakens your immune defenses over time. Too much humidity, however, turns your home into a microbial playground. Mold spores, bacteria, and dust mites thrive in moist conditions, constantly triggering low-level immune responses. That keeps your immune system in “defensive mode,” wearing it down instead of letting it rest between battles. These are some of the overlooked effects of staying indoors for a long time in poorly balanced environments. Your immune system doesn’t respond directly to humidity — it reacts to the stress signals your body sends when the environment starts working against you. Dry air acts as a stressor, prompting your adrenal glands to release more cortisol (the “get through the day” hormone), which quietly suppresses immune efficiency. That’s why people who stay indoors in heated, dry homes catch more colds — not just because viruses linger, but because the body is already in stress mode. Excess moisture, on the other hand, means constant allergen exposure — dust mites, mold spores, microbial fragments. These don’t always make you sick, but they train your immune system to overreact, the same way lifting too many weights without rest leads to fatigue. Keeping air humidity between 40% and 50% supports optimal immune function — moist enough for protection, but not enough to fuel biological overgrowth. Balanced air isn’t just about comfort; it gives your immune system a stable environment where it doesn’t have to choose between “fight” and “recover” all day.

26 Aug

Posted at 13:24h in Environmental Risks, Infections
In clinical settings and community health discussions alike, food security and nutrition are common priorities. But one important factor is often overlooked: packaging’s role in reducing spoilage, preserving nutrient integrity, and protecting patients from foodborne illness. From hospitals and long-term care facilities to home health environments, minimizing food waste isn’t just about economics or sustainability. It’s a public health issue—one that starts with how food is packaged, stored, and protected from contamination. The High Stakes of Spoiled Food in Healthcare In the U.S., nearly 40% of all food goes to waste—often due to spoilage that starts with inadequate storage. But in healthcare environments, the stakes are even higher. Spoiled food can pose a serious risk to vulnerable populations, including:
  • Immunocompromised patients
  • Older adults in assisted living
  • Children in pediatric or school-based settings
  • Individuals with chronic illnesses or food sensitivities
Even minor lapses in storage or temperature control can lead to foodborne illnesses with severe consequences, especially for these groups.

26 Aug

Posted at 13:23h in Environmental Risks, Pulmonary Disease
A backyard pool is often seen as the perfect warm-weather escape — ideal for relaxing, exercising, or entertaining. But pool ownership comes with more than just leaf skimming and pH testing. One commonly overlooked concern is how pool chemicals can affect the air you breathe, especially close to the water’s surface. When pool chemistry is off-balance, the effects extend beyond cloudy water or skin irritation. Chemical reactions can release airborne byproducts that may impact respiratory health. Whether you're handling maintenance yourself or relying on a service, it's important to understand how pool upkeep can influence the air around your pool — and your lungs.

19 Aug

Posted at 14:43h in Environmental Risks, Pulmonary Disease
[caption id="attachment_70340" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Air Quality and Chronic Respiratory Diseases Photo courtesy of Pixabay [/caption] The attacks of September 11 left scars that extended far beyond the visible destruction. In the years that followed, research revealed another crisis: the lingering impact of toxic air on those who lived or worked near Ground Zero.  Firefighters, residents, and first responders developed chronic respiratory diseases at alarming rates. Today, these studies offer a reference point on how invisible particles impact entire lifespans. Below, we discuss the public health aftermath of the 9/11 crisis and how you can seek help. 

Air Quality Post 9/11 

The collapse of the World Trade Center released a cloud of fine caustic dust, chemicals, and construction debris. The toxic mix included silica, asbestos, heavy metals, glass fibers, hydrocarbons, and carbon nanotubes found later in tissue samples.  First responders, residents, and workers inhaled these particles. Many woke with persistent coughs. Some exposed within hours of the collapse went on to develop WTC cough syndrome, a chronic ailment tied to airway inflammation, reflux, sinus disease, and diminished lung function. 

03 Aug

Posted at 21:06h in Environmental Risks
[caption id="attachment_70156" align="aligncenter" width="500"]Modern Trends in Food Service Workwear Photo by Kampus Production: [/caption] A shift toward eco-friendly, ethically sourced uniforms reflects changing public attitudes. Guests and employees value businesses showing environmental responsibility and inclusivity, not just in food sourcing but also in team attire. Top restaurant brands see uniforms as a sign of commitment, with innovations in fabrics, personalization, and gender-neutral designs raising standards. The food service industry is experiencing a major style shift, with new trends emphasizing function, sustainability, and individuality equally. As restaurant concepts diversify and consumer expectations grow more sophisticated, uniforms have gone beyond their traditional functions—they now serve as a key reflection of a business’s brand, values, and work culture. Choosing the right fast food uniform does far more than establish a professional image; it can improve staff comfort, boost job satisfaction, and even play a part in maintaining better hygiene across high-traffic, fast-paced environments. Restaurants now recognize the importance of apparel in standing out, moving beyond plain, one-size-fits-all garments. Owners seek durable, high-performance uniforms that make a positive statement, whether through innovative materials, sustainable fabrics, or wearable tech that keeps staff comfortable and connected. Good workwear boosts morale and can reduce employee turnover by enhancing workplace satisfaction.

31 Jul

Posted at 13:19h in Autism, Environmental Risks, Legal-Malpractice, Pediatrics
possible-link-baby-food-autism.jpg In recent years, growing concern has emerged among parents, scientists, and legal professionals over a troubling link: the potential connection between baby food and autism. While research is still ongoing, reports suggest that some mainstream baby food products may contain harmful levels of heavy metals such as arsenic, lead, mercury, and cadmium—substances that can seriously impact early brain development.

What Does the Research Say?

Several government reports, including one by the U.S. House of Representatives Subcommittee on Economic and Consumer Policy in 2021, revealed that some popular baby food brands were found to have significant levels of toxic heavy metals. These metals are known neurotoxins and have been linked to developmental disorders when exposure occurs during infancy or pregnancy. As a result, some parents have begun filing toxic baby food product liability lawsuits. Although ASD is a complex condition influenced by both genetic and environmental factors, scientists have found that exposure to neurotoxic substances during early development may elevate the risk. Heavy metals, even in trace amounts, can disrupt the delicate neurological development processes in babies, potentially contributing to cognitive delays and behavioral issues commonly associated with ASD.

23 Jul

Posted at 15:57h in Author Interviews, Environmental Risks, NYU/NYMC
MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_69606" align="alignleft" width="225"]Dr. George D. Thurston ScD Professor of Medicine and Population Health Director of the Program in Exposure Assessment and Human Health Effects NYU Grossman School of Medicine Division of Environmental Medicine NYC, NY 10010   Prof. Thurston[/caption] Dr. George D. Thurston Professor of Medicine and Population Health NYU Grossman School of Medicine Division of Environmental Medicine NYC, NY 10010   USA MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What were some of the chemicals released by the coal-coking plant? Response: Pittsburgh has a long history as the nation's principal source of bituminous coal production and home to iron and coke industries since the late 19th century, and is also known as one of the cities with the highest levels of air pollution and most air-pollution related deaths in the US, to date. The Shenango, Inc Coke Plant was one of the significant industrial emission sources in the area before its closure in January 2016. Coal-coking plants like the Shenango plant utilizes a destructive heated distillation process called pyrolysis to volatilize and drive the impurities out of coal and produce coke, a purer product with higher carbon content for use in iron and steel production. From this process, coke plant operations are known to generate high emissions of complex air pollution mixtures into the ambient air, including particulate matter (PM), sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), polycyclic organic matter (POMs), volatile compounds (VOCs), and volatilized trace metals such as arsenic, nickel, selenium, lead, and cobalt. Our study examines the changes in respiratory health in the community residing near the Shenango Coke Plant before vs. after its closure,  providing a direct quantification of the health benefits of such fossil-fuel-related air pollution reductions. 

07 Jul

Posted at 08:22h in Environmental Risks, Heart Disease
summer-with-lvad Summer brings longer days, warmer weather, and more opportunities to be active outdoors. But for people living with a mechanical LVAD heart pump, this season also brings a unique set of daily challenges. Heatwaves, high humidity, and strong sun can put both your body and your LVAD device under additional stress. It’s not just about comfort—it's about safety, mobility, and avoiding complications that could interfere with your daily routine.

Why Summer is so Hard for LVAD Device Users?

Hot weather increases the risk of your body overheating, which can affect circulation, energy levels, and overall well-being. At the same time, the LVAD device itself may become more difficult to manage, especially when sweat or moisture build up around its contact points. This can lead to skin irritation, increased infection risk, or discomfort when moving. The good news is that with the right knowledge, preparation, and clothing, you can enjoy your summer fully. In this guide, you’ll learn how to pick breathable, skin-friendly fabrics, manage body temperature, and protect your LVAD device in practical ways—so you can stay safe and comfortable while enjoying everything summer has to offer.

07 Apr

Posted at 18:17h in Environmental Risks
[caption id="attachment_67814" align="aligncenter" width="500"]medical-waste-pexels Photo by Yuen Tou Zan[/caption] Picture a bustling hospital in Louisiana, its corridors alive with the hum of dedication as healthcare professionals save lives. Yet, beneath this noble endeavor lies a less visible challenge: the mounting accumulation of biomedical waste. This byproduct of medical care—ranging from sharps to infectious materials—poses a formidable threat to both public health and the environment if not managed with precision and foresight. In Louisiana, a state cradled by fragile wetlands and vibrant ecosystems, hospitals are pioneering sustainable biomedical waste practices to mitigate their environmental footprint. These efforts reflect a profound commitment to stewardship, extending the ethos of healing beyond patients to the planet itself.

Understanding Biomedical Waste: Scope and Significance

Biomedical waste, often termed healthcare or medical waste, comprises materials generated during the diagnosis, treatment, or immunization of humans and animals. This category includes sharps (needles, lancets), pathological waste (human tissues, organs), pharmaceutical waste (expired drugs), and infectious waste (contaminated bandages, cultures). Each type demands meticulous handling to prevent the dissemination of pathogens, chemical pollutants, or physical hazards. The stakes are particularly high in Louisiana, where the healthcare sector supports a growing population amidst an ecologically sensitive landscape. The state’s bayous, marshes, and coastal regions—vital to biodiversity and economic livelihoods—are susceptible to contamination from improperly managed waste. As hospitals expand to meet rising demand, the volume of biomedical waste escalates, necessitating innovative strategies to avert an environmental crisis.

04 Mar

Posted at 10:13h in Environmental Risks
[caption id="attachment_66976" align="aligncenter" width="500"]improper-medical-waste-disposal.png Image Source[/caption] Medical waste is an unavoidable byproduct of healthcare, but when it is not handled correctly, it can become a silent threat to public health and the environment. Hospitals, clinics, and laboratories generate waste materials, from used syringes and surgical instruments to pharmaceutical residues and biological contaminants. If these materials are not disposed of properly, they pose serious health risks to healthcare workers, patients, and the wider community. Inadequate disposal methods can lead to infections, toxic exposure, and long-term environmental damage. That is why facilities must ensure proper waste management practices, which may include professional roll away dumpster rental services to handle large quantities of medical waste efficiently.

30 Jan

Posted at 10:17h in Cancer Research, Environmental Risks, Mesothelioma
  [caption id="attachment_66259" align="aligncenter" width="500"]cancer-mesothelioma.jpg Image by Anna Tarazevich on Pexels[/caption] Mesothelioma, a rare, aggressive cancer, often grows on the thin tissue layer that lines the abdomen or lungs. Prolonged exposure to asbestos is considered the primary risk factor for developing this disease because eight out of 10 of those with mesothelioma claim asbestos exposure. Age, gender, and genetics are other mesothelioma risk factors. Discussed below is what you need to know about mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma stages

Upon being diagnosed with mesothelioma, the next step is figuring out if and how far it has spread. This is where staging comes in. A cancer stage describes the amount of cancer in the body. Staging helps determine how severe the mesothelioma is and how best it can be treated. There are four mesothelioma stages, which are classified based on size, location, and the number of tumors. They include:
  • Stage 1: Early tumor growth develops along one of the lung’s mesothelial lining.
  • Stage 2: The cancer cells have already spread to the lymph nodes nearby.
  • Stage 3: At this level, the mesothelioma cancer tumors have invaded deeper tissues in distant lymph nodes and close organs.
  • Stage 4: The cancer tumors have spread and reached distant organs.
Knowing your mesothelioma stage at diagnosis can influence your treatment options.

17 Dec

Posted at 16:25h in Author Interviews, Clots - Coagulation, Environmental Risks
MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_65560" align="alignleft" width="200"]Pamela L Lutsey PhD, MPHProfessor, Division of Epidemiology & Community Health University of Minnesota Minneapolis, Minnesota Dr. Lutsey[/caption] Pamela L Lutsey PhD, MPH Professor, Division of Epidemiology & Community Health University of Minnesota Minneapolis, Minnesota MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Air pollution is ubiquitous. In order to understand the impact of exposure on health, it is necessary to look across diverse health conditions. Associations with lung disease and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease are more established. Less is known about the role of air pollution exposure on coagulation and venous thromboembolism (VTE). MedicalResearch.com: Are individuals less ambulatory in heavily polluted areas? The study did not address this question directly. The association did persist across a wide range of subgroups of the sample, including those who were not smokers and who had no evidence of lung disease.

31 Oct

Posted at 10:51h in Environmental Risks
[caption id="attachment_64440" align="aligncenter" width="500"]chemical-free-environment [Image Source][/caption]Many everyday products contain chemicals that can negatively impact health. Items like household cleaners, personal care products, and even cosmetics are often loaded with substances linked to respiratory problems, skin irritation, and hormone disruption. These effects can accumulate over time, making it essential to reduce exposure wherever possible. For families, especially those with children or members prone to allergies, minimizing harmful chemicals at home can have lasting benefits. This growing awareness has encouraged people to seek alternatives that promote wellness. A chemical-free lifestyle doesn’t require drastic changes all at once. Instead, small adjustments—like replacing a few conventional items—can create meaningful improvements. With more consumers focused on healthier choices, the demand for safer products continues to rise.

08 Oct

Posted at 21:35h in Environmental Risks

The environmental benefits of scrap paper recycling in health care are undeniable, supporting critical efforts in waste reduction, resource conservation, and climate change mitigation. By encouraging and perfecting recycling practices, we can collectively steer towards a more sustainable and environmentally conscious future....

07 Oct

Posted at 11:59h in Environmental Risks, Hearing Loss
  tinnitus-weather-changes.jpg

How Weather Affects the Human Body

Weather exerts a broad spectrum of influences on physiological systems that keep us vibrant, well-functioning, and ever-adapting. From the skin, which shields us, to core temperature regulation, it is paramount to comprehend how these external factors play pivotal roles in the dance of resilience. Temperature variations and atmospheric shifts can also influence our comfort, affecting hydration, energy levels, and even our ability to focus and perform tasks effectively.

The Body's Reaction to Temperature Shifts

Temperature variations have a direct—yet often underappreciated—impact on the delicate balance of our auditory system.  As the mercury rises or falls, our bodies instinctively adjust, causing expansions and contractions within the ear structure that may impact how we perceive sound. These changes, while potentially bothersome, signify a remarkable biological resilience—a testament to the body's ability to navigate the dynamic symphony of nature's cues and maintain equilibrium in a shifting environment.

25 Sep

Posted at 10:41h in Cancer Research, Environmental Risks, Occupational Health
[caption id="attachment_63502" align="aligncenter" width="624"]AFFF-firefighting-foam Image Source[/caption] Aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) is a firefighting foam used to extinguish fuel fires. It contains a group of chemicals in the family of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances commonly referred to as PFAS. Over time, these substances have been linked to some serious health problems, even cancer. If you have been exposed to AFFF and developed cancer, you have the right to file an AFFF lawsuit. Below are the types of cancers often linked to AFFF exposure.

29 Aug

Posted at 11:05h in Environmental Risks, Legal-Malpractice

dachal-herbicides

Image source

Dacthal, also known by its chemical name dimethyl tetrachloroterephthalate (DCPA), is an herbicide that has been widely used in agriculture since its introduction by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 1958. It's a pre-emergent herbicide, meaning it stops weeds before they even see the light of day. Farmers and gardeners loved it. They would sprinkle it on their fields, and the weeds would simply never show up. Dacthal was a big hit in states like California, Washington, and Arizona. It was especially popular for controlling weeds in crops like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, and onions. Even though Dacthal was widely used, its safety was questioned for years. Studies showed it was potentially harmful, especially for pregnant women, and lawsuits were filed. As affected individuals and communities sought accountability, understanding the legal basis for Dacthal lawsuits became important.

27 Aug

Posted at 20:29h in Author Interviews, Cognitive Issues, Environmental Risks, NIH, Pediatrics
MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Rick Woychik, Ph.D. Director of the National Toxicology Program Director of the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences Principal Investigator Mammalian Genome Research Group Division for Intramural Research at NIEHS MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? [caption id="attachment_62975" align="alignleft" width="200"]water_pexels-pixabay-416528 Source[/caption] Response: Since 1945, the use of fluoride has been a successful public health initiative for reducing dental cavities and improving general oral health of adults and children. There is a concern, however, that some pregnant women and children may be getting more fluoride than they need because they now get fluoride from many sources including treated public water, water-added foods and beverages, teas, toothpaste, floss, and mouthwash, and the combined total intake of fluoride may exceed safe amounts.   Therefore, the National Toxicology Program (NTP) conducted a systematic review of the published scientific literature on the association between fluoride exposure and neurodevelopment and cognition. The NTP released their findings in a State of the Science Monograph on August 21, 2024, and posted to the NTP website. A corresponding meta-analysis on children’s IQ has been accepted by a scientific journal for publication later in 2024. The NTP started this work in 2016. As with all research documents intended for publication, the NTP fluoride monograph and meta-analysis underwent rigorous scientific evaluation.  The evaluation process has involved many steps. The draft fluoride monograph received significant critical feedback during peer-review by the National Academies of Science, Engineering and Medicine (NASEM), from other external experts, and from experts in several federal health agencies.  After modifications were made, additional evaluation following a rigorous scientific framework was conducted by subject matter experts organized by the NTP Board of Scientific Counselors. I am very pleased that this document is now complete and available for reference. Since fluoride is such an important topic to the public and to public health officials, it was imperative that we made every effort to get the science right. I commend the report authors, the NTP Board of Scientific Counselors, and countless subject matter experts who participated in this evaluation. The monograph represents a thorough review of the data, and the various interpretations of the data, to accurately reflect what we know and where additional research is needed.

24 Jun

Posted at 18:49h in Author Interviews, Diabetes, Environmental Risks
MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_62064" align="alignleft" width="200"]Todd Hagobian, Ph.D.pronouns he/him/his Department Chair & Professor, Kinesiology and Public Health Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, CA FRANK H 2016 ilyfrankh.com Dr. Hagobian[/caption] Todd Hagobian, Ph.D. pronouns he/him/his Department Chair & Professor, Kinesiology and Public Health Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, CA MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Previous observational studies have shown that urinary BPA is related to Type 2 diabetes risk. Meaning, higher urinary BPA is related to an increased risk of Type 2 diabetes. However, no published study to date has determined whether several days of BPA administration (participants consume BPA) increases the risk of Type 2 diabetes. MedicalResearch.com: Where is bisphenol found?  Can exposure to bisphenol be limited in everyday life? Response:  BPA and other bisphenols are found in canned foods and plastics. BPA is one of the most widely used synthetic chemicals and we consume foods that are packed in this chemical. Most of BPA exposure comes from canned foods, and 93% of the US populations has detectable urine levels of BPA. We can limit BPA by reducing canned foods (or purchased BPA free cans) and plastic use.

22 May

Posted at 00:28h in Cancer Research, Environmental Risks
Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a class of compounds utilized in a variety of industrial and commercial applications, such as firefighting foams and military equipment. Recent research has raised concerns about the possible health implications of PFAS exposure, specifically its association with testicular cancer. Firefighters and military personnel are particularly vulnerable owing to work exposure to PFAS-containing chemicals. This article explores the connection between PFAS exposure and testicular cancer, focusing on the impact on firefighters and military personnel. It will also discuss the legal recourse available for these individuals through AFFF lawsuits.

07 May

Posted at 19:53h in Author Interviews, Environmental Risks
MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_61654" align="alignleft" width="150"]Gediminas "Gedi" Mainelis, Ph.D.Professor, Department of Environmental Sciences School of Environmental and Biological Sciences Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey Prof. Mainelis[/caption] Gediminas "Gedi" Mainelis, Ph.D. Professor, Department of Environmental Sciences School of Environmental and Biological Sciences Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What types of particles, ie where do they come from? Response: This work is a continuation of my research on nanoparticles in consumer products. We have investigated and published on the release of particles from nano-enabled consumer products, such as cosmetic powders, various sprays and clothing. In this project, we were interested in potential resuspension of particles once nano-enabled consumer sprays are used. The particles are added into consumer products to provide them certain desired properties, like antimicrobial protection, odor reduction or protection against UV (sunscreen). Once the products are used, the particles are released and we could be exposed to them.