EB: Happy New Year to you, too, Jennifer! This is a complex topic and can be controversial. The research presented this month really helped me to understand the scope of environmental health better.
JJ: Yes, Ms. Bush; that’s very true. It’s a difficult topic to both understand and to improve. When people hear the words “environmental health” they may think of air pollution, clean water, soil contamination or lead exposure. All of these topics fall under the large umbrella of environmental health, yet they are each unique problems that can influence our health each day, especially over the course of our life. It’s also hard for one single person to change these larger issues. Many times a change in environmental health requires government-level changes.
EB: Many people know that I grew up in Pittsburgh. I remember when Pittsburgh had darker air because of the mills and the rivers were dirtier because of fewer concerns and knowledge about pollutants that were being dumped in the water. I was pleased to read in the overview with Dr. Jane Clougherty that Pittsburgh is less polluted now than it used to be. I know that we still have work to do, but it’s encouraging that steps are being taken to ensure that future generations live in a healthier city.
JJ: I agree. Dr. Jessie Carr Schmool’s article on the environment points to some of the work that was done by African Americans with the environmental justice movement. Regulations from organizations like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have influenced how our society views environmental health. The Allegheny County Health Department also has great resources, especially about lead exposure. Their resources and tips pages provide useful suggestions on how to keep homes healthy.
EB: Thank you for pointing out those resources, Jennifer. It’s important that we’re aware of our surroundings, both when indoors during the winter months and outside when the weather gets warmer. I know that Pittsburgh officials are doing their best to keep our beautiful city clean and healthy for all of us. We can each do our part by being aware of how we’re treating the environment. Simple things like not littering will ensure that trash does not make its way into our three rivers.
JJ: Thank you for your time, Ms. Bush. I hope you have a great January. Next month, we’re focusing our health page on hearing health, particularly in the elderly population. If anyone has any questions about the information on this page, e-mail PARTners@hs.pitt.edu.
Heart disease, cancer and respiratory illness are three of the top four deadliest health threats in America. All three have an overwhelming impact on Black communities.
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