Sarah Yelton, Andrew George, Martha Scott Tomlinson, Paige A Bommarito, Rebecca C Fry, Kathleen M Gray
{"title":"Communicating Results of Drinking Water Tests From Private Wells: Designing Report-Back Materials to Facilitate Understanding.","authors":"Sarah Yelton, Andrew George, Martha Scott Tomlinson, Paige A Bommarito, Rebecca C Fry, Kathleen M Gray","doi":"","DOIUrl":"","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>This evaluation assessed the effectiveness of graphic-based (i.e., pictorial) report-back materials in communicating the presence of toxic metals in private well water and soil samples. It also explored associations between recommendations in the report-back materials and appropriate actions to protect health taken by a subset of participants in an environmental monitoring pilot study. Overall, 39 residents of Stokes County, North Carolina, participated in the Well Empowered pilot study, which included water and soil testing and analysis. All participants received materials explaining the extent to which toxic metals were present in their well water and soil. A subset of participants (<i>n</i> = 14) responded to a follow-up evaluation, which showed that many found at least one component of their test results \"very easy to understand.\" The existence of a federal standard for comparison appeared to influence participant recall of results, which was more accurate for contaminants with a federal maximum contaminant level. Our evaluation results suggest that a simple pictorial format, in combination with more detailed supporting text, can be useful in highlighting results that require action.</p>","PeriodicalId":15713,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Environmental Health","volume":"85 8","pages":"8-14"},"PeriodicalIF":0.8,"publicationDate":"2023-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10448603/pdf/nihms-1916354.pdf","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"10104476","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"环境科学与生态学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Jasmine Y Nakayama, Krishna Surasi, Lance R Owen, Mark Johnson, Sandra Martell, Abigail Kittler, Peter Lopatin, Sarah Patrick, Caitlin Mertzlufft, D Kevin Horton, Maureen Orr
{"title":"Assessment of Chemical Exposures Investigation After Fire at an Industrial Chemical Facility in Winnebago County, Illinois.","authors":"Jasmine Y Nakayama, Krishna Surasi, Lance R Owen, Mark Johnson, Sandra Martell, Abigail Kittler, Peter Lopatin, Sarah Patrick, Caitlin Mertzlufft, D Kevin Horton, Maureen Orr","doi":"","DOIUrl":"","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>After a chemical fire, an investigation assessed health effects by using syndromic surveillance to monitor emergency department (ED) visits, a general health survey to assess the general public, and a first responders health survey to assess first responders. A total of four separate multivariable logistic regression models were developed to examine associations between reported exposure to smoke, dust, debris, or odor with any reported symptom in the general public. Syndromic surveillance identified areas with increased ED visits. Among general health survey respondents, 45.1% (911 out of 2,020) reported at least one symptom. Respondents reporting exposure to smoke, dust, debris, or odor had 4.5 (95% confidence interval (CI) [3.7, 5.5]), 4.6 (95% CI [3.6, 5.8]), 2.0 (95% CI [1.7, 2.5]), or 5.8 (95% CI [4.7, 7.3]) times the odds of reporting any symptom compared with respondents not reporting exposure to smoke, dust, debris, or odor, respectively. First responders commonly reported contact with material and being within 1 mi of the fire ≥5 hr; 10 out of 31 of first responders reported at least one symptom. There was high symptom burden reported after the fire. Results from our investigation might assist the directing of public health resources to effectively address immediate community needs and prepare for future incidents.</p>","PeriodicalId":15713,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Environmental Health","volume":"85 7","pages":"8-15"},"PeriodicalIF":0.8,"publicationDate":"2023-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10336458/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"10199019","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"环境科学与生态学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Laurel Berman, Cezar Morar, Lloyd DeGrane, Sharon Unkart, Serap Erdal
{"title":"Brownfields in Romania and the United States: A Visual Tour.","authors":"Laurel Berman, Cezar Morar, Lloyd DeGrane, Sharon Unkart, Serap Erdal","doi":"","DOIUrl":"","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>This third article in a series of three on land reuse describes brownfield sites in Romania and the U.S. In 2018 and 2019, four of the authors toured brownfield areas in Romania (including Bucharest, southern Transylvania, and Oradea) and the U.S. (Southeast Missouri [called the Missouri Bootheel], Northern Arizona and Navajo Nation, and Northwest Indiana). We were interested in similarities and differences among brownfields in various urban and rural settings in both countries. This article describes these sites through a visual perspective as well as site characteristics and commonalities. Ultimately, potentially contaminated or land reuse sites such as brownfields are common in many parts of the world. We hope to advance the understanding of brownfields and site transformation options through our collaboration.</p>","PeriodicalId":15713,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Environmental Health","volume":"85 5","pages":"28-38"},"PeriodicalIF":0.8,"publicationDate":"2022-12-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10190036/pdf/nihms-1888323.pdf","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"9521796","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"环境科学与生态学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Tonia Burk, David Mellard, Gregory V Ulirsch, Zheng Li
{"title":"Public Health Assessment Site Tool and Affiliated Applications: A Key Resource for Evaluating the Health Impact of Community Exposure to Hazardous Chemicals.","authors":"Tonia Burk, David Mellard, Gregory V Ulirsch, Zheng Li","doi":"","DOIUrl":"","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>As part of our continued effort to highlight innovative approaches to improve the health and environment of communities, the <i>Journal</i> is pleased to publish regular columns from the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). ATSDR serves the public by using the best science, taking responsive public health actions, and providing trusted health information to prevent harmful exposures and diseases related to toxic substances. The purpose of this column is to inform readers of ATSDR's activities and initiatives to better understand the relationship between exposure to hazardous substances in the environment, its impact on human health, and how to protect public health.</p>","PeriodicalId":15713,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Environmental Health","volume":"85 4","pages":"40-42"},"PeriodicalIF":0.8,"publicationDate":"2022-11-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10193458/pdf/nihms-1870993.pdf","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"9502851","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"环境科学与生态学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Yoorae Noh, Jonathan H Shannahan, Anna G Hoover, Kelly G Pennell, Mark H Weir, Andrew J Whelton
{"title":"Bystander chemical exposures and injuries associated with nearby plastic sewer pipe manufacture: public health practice and lessons.","authors":"Yoorae Noh, Jonathan H Shannahan, Anna G Hoover, Kelly G Pennell, Mark H Weir, Andrew J Whelton","doi":"","DOIUrl":"","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Cured-in-place pipes (CIPPs) are plastic liners manufactured inside existing damaged sanitary sewer, storm sewer, and water pipes that extend the service life of host pipes. This process often is conducted in neighborhoods and near roadways. Before, during, and after plastic manufacture, waste materials that include volatile materials are released into the air. Emissions from this manufacturing process can affect outdoor air quality and indoor air quality for buildings connected to the sewer system. We identified key issues and solicited stakeholder feedback to estimate and manage public health risks of CIPP-generated chemical air pollution. A work group representing 13 U.S. agencies and public health associations provided feedback and prioritized public health issues for action. To mitigate potential public and occupational health risks, additional testing and public health educational efforts were recommended. An improved understanding of CIPP chemical exposure pathways, as well as stakeholder needs and interests, is essential.</p>","PeriodicalId":15713,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Environmental Health","volume":"85 4","pages":"22-31"},"PeriodicalIF":0.8,"publicationDate":"2022-11-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10512871/pdf/nihms-1929061.pdf","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"41147663","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"环境科学与生态学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Estimation of High Blood Lead Levels Among Children in Georgia: An Application of Bayesian Analysis.","authors":"Shailendra N Banerjee","doi":"","DOIUrl":"","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>In Georgia, children in high-risk counties are at increased risk for lead exposure. Those children and others in high-risk groups, such as families receiving Medicaid and Peach Care for Kids (i.e., health coverage for children in low-income families), are screened for blood lead levels (BLLs). Such screening, however, might not include all children at high risk for having BLLs above the reference levels (≥5 μg/dL) in the state. In our study, Bayesian methods were used to estimate the predictive density of the number of children <6 years with BLLs of 5-9 μg/dL in a targeted county from each of five selected regions of Georgia. Furthermore, the estimated mean number of children with BLLs of 5-9 μg/dL in each targeted county, along with its 95% credible interval, were calculated. The model revealed likely underreporting of some children <6 years with BLLs of 5-9 μg/dL in counties of Georgia. Further investigation might help reduce underreporting and better protect children who are at risk for lead poisoning.</p>","PeriodicalId":15713,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Environmental Health","volume":"85 3","pages":"8-15"},"PeriodicalIF":0.8,"publicationDate":"2022-10-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10187659/pdf/nihms-1894346.pdf","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"9483825","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"环境科学与生态学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Jeffrey S Brown, Brian D Byrd, C Roxanne Connelly, Stephanie L Richards
{"title":"Operational Insights Into Mosquito Control Disaster Response in Coastal North Carolina: Experiences With the Federal Emergency Management Agency After Hurricane Florence.","authors":"Jeffrey S Brown, Brian D Byrd, C Roxanne Connelly, Stephanie L Richards","doi":"","DOIUrl":"","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Preparation for post-hurricane mosquito control is essential for an effective emergency response to protect public health and promote recovery efforts. Effective pre-hurricane planning includes laying the groundwork for a successful reimbursement application to the Federal Emergency Management Agency. The critical and overlapping need to sustain funding for mosquito control programs is highlighted here in the context of both normal and emergency responses. Community support is an integral component of an effective integrated pest management program and is established over time with appropriate communication and engagement. Experienced mosquito control operators who are familiar with treatment areas are an essential component of successful operations. Here, practical advice is provided to plan, prepare, and implement a successful ground- and aerial-based mosquito control response.</p>","PeriodicalId":15713,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Environmental Health","volume":"85 2","pages":"24-31"},"PeriodicalIF":0.8,"publicationDate":"2022-09-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10191136/pdf/nihms-1832045.pdf","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"10489336","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"环境科学与生态学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"New Web-Based Public Health Assessment Guidance Manual -A Foundational Tool for Evaluating Exposure and Public Health Impacts in Communities.","authors":"Gregory V Ulirsch, Zheng Li","doi":"","DOIUrl":"","url":null,"abstract":"","PeriodicalId":15713,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Environmental Health","volume":"85 2","pages":"38-41"},"PeriodicalIF":0.8,"publicationDate":"2022-09-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10191148/pdf/nihms-1841070.pdf","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"9491033","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"环境科学与生态学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Identifying Research to Evaluate Exposures to Microplastics.","authors":"Gaston Casillas, Gregory M Zarus","doi":"","DOIUrl":"","url":null,"abstract":"","PeriodicalId":15713,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Environmental Health","volume":"84 10","pages":"36-40"},"PeriodicalIF":0.8,"publicationDate":"2022-06-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10191131/pdf/nihms-1827535.pdf","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"9507020","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"环境科学与生态学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Laurel Berman, Cezar Morar, Sharon Unkart, Serap Erdal
{"title":"An Overview of Brownfields Redevelopment in the United States Through Regulatory, Public Health, and Sustainability Lenses.","authors":"Laurel Berman, Cezar Morar, Sharon Unkart, Serap Erdal","doi":"","DOIUrl":"","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>This second article in a series of three on land reuse highlights brownfields redevelopment in the U.S., focusing on regulatory frameworks, public health, policy, and sustainable development. The main regulatory agency in the U.S. involved in brownfields is the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA). Many other state and federal agencies have brownfield or brownfield-supporting programs. Apart from the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, few agencies have programs fully dedicated to public health protection related to brownfields. Sustainable development, defined in this article as development that minimizes use of nonrenewable resources, is recognized as a component of redevelopment and is generally promoted by U.S. EPA and through other sustainable development initiatives. A broader focus on sustainable development and public health improvement could reduce the inequity and health disparities typically seen in areas with distressed environments. Such a focus could be implemented globally to improve population health and the environment over the long term.</p>","PeriodicalId":15713,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Environmental Health","volume":"84 9","pages":"8-14"},"PeriodicalIF":0.8,"publicationDate":"2022-05-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10191173/pdf/nihms-1847505.pdf","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"9490142","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"环境科学与生态学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}