Environmental Health Chat

In this podcast, we take a look at how geographic information systems (GIS) and other spatial methodologies can illuminate environmental exposures and help researchers and communities communicate risks. Hear about recent developments in mapping technology, challenges with data management and training, and the potential for these technologies to improve our understanding of environmental health around the globe.

Air quality has a significant impact on our health. With new, low-cost sensor technologies and apps, everyday citizens can monitor air pollution on the go, where they live, work, and play - providing valuable information for individuals and communities, as well as troves of data for scientific research. But how accurate and appropriate are these technologies to meet the goals of the community groups? This podcast explores the potential and limitations of next-generation air quality monitors and offers strategies for citizen scientists as they get started.

Phthalates are a family of chemicals used in many plastics and scented products. Recent research has linked prenatal and early childhood phthalate exposure with a variety of adverse health effects. In this podcast, we explore the latest scientific findings and offer tips on how to reduce your exposure.

Pregnant women and their developing babies are particularly vulnerable to harmful environmental exposures. Although many physicians talk to expecting mothers about smoking, alcohol, and nutrition, a new study shows doctors are less comfortable talking to patients about the environmental contaminants that women may be exposed to at home or at work. This podcast identifies some common contaminants of concern and discusses how doctors and pregnant women can work together to reduce prenatal exposures.

In this podcast, we consider how our understanding of the impacts of fracking has evolved since we last tackled the issue in 2013. Despite continued debate over the potential public health risks of fracking, many research questions remain unanswered. However, one thing seems clear: community members have an important role to play in research on the impacts of fracking.

With obesity rates skyrocketing, some scientists are wondering whether there's more to the story than simply too many calories. In this podcast, Dr. Bruce Blumberg highlights the latest research on how exposure to environmental chemicals in the environment called "obesogens" could increase the risk for obesity.

Arsenic poisoning is a recognized health threat worldwide. Although contaminated drinking water is a primary culprit, people can also be exposed to arsenic through foods. In this podcast, learn why rice and other foods sometimes contain arsenic and get tips on how to reduce your exposure.

If the genome is like a biological "hard drive," the epigenome is like a computer program that provides instructions for translating genetic information into action. Recent insights about how the epigenome affects our health are leading to a new way of thinking about environmental exposures.

According to some estimates, up to 500,000 abandoned mines--areas where coal, ores, metals, and uranium were once extracted from the Earth--are scattered across the United States. Materials left behind at these sites can be picked up in the wind, leach into soil, or drain into water sources, presenting a health threat to those living nearby. In this podcast, we learn how some Native American groups are teaming up with researchers to address the health legacy of abandoned mines on Tribal lands.

In Part 2 of this 2-part series, we talk to an expert about translating breast cancer research into the decisions we make in our everyday lives.

What could healthier than a backyard garden? In this podcast, we learn why soil contamination makes gardening potentially risky in some areas. Our experts explain what recent research can tell us about safe gardening practices.

Schools built on hazardous waste sites? Yes, it really happens. In 1978, the discovery of toxic chemicals leaching into schools and homes built atop a former landfill brought international attention to a small New York neighborhood called Love Canal. The Love Canal story helped spark a national movement to address the toxic legacies of the past. In 2002, researchers mapped school sites in just five states and found more than 1,100 schools located within a half-mile of a known contaminated site, affecting more than 600,000 children in California, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, and New York. In this podcast: how researchers and community members teamed up to investigate contamination at Rhode Island schools.

To eat fish or not to eat fish? This podcast explains why some types of fish contain high levels of mercury and how to find low-mercury seafood for your family to enjoy.