Climate change poses a significant threat to global health.It exacerbates existing health challenges and generates new ones.Therefore,innovative solutions to mitigate and adapt to its adverse effects are urgently requ...Climate change poses a significant threat to global health.It exacerbates existing health challenges and generates new ones.Therefore,innovative solutions to mitigate and adapt to its adverse effects are urgently required.This article explores the potential of digital health technologies to address the challenge posed by climate change-related health issues.It discusses their dual functionality of diminishing the carbon footprint of healthcare services and increasing understanding and governance of climate-sensitive diseases.Notably,with advanced technologies such as Generative medical AI(GMAI)presenting environmental concerns like substantial energy consumption during data processing and the generation of electronic waste,it is essential to underscore the significance of their responsible development and implementation of these technologies.This will ensure that the benefits of digital health technologies can be maximized while minimizing their ecological drawbacks.This study,therefore propose,a framework for leveraging digital health technologies to support climate change adaptation,including disease surveillance,telemedicine,patient support systems,and public awareness campaigns.展开更多
Objective Communities in the developing countries such as Ghana have little knowledge of effects of noise pollution on human health,which is demonstrated by their attitude towards this menace.This study assessed the h...Objective Communities in the developing countries such as Ghana have little knowledge of effects of noise pollution on human health,which is demonstrated by their attitude towards this menace.This study assessed the health impacts of noise pollution and its spatial distribution in the Tarkwa Mining Community(TMC)of Ghana.Methods To achieve the study objective,questionnaires were administered;as well as collation of health data from major health centers in the study area.Noise levels were measured and noise map produced using geographic information system(GIS)techniques.Overlay maps of some diseases were done using overlay techniques in GIS.The noise exposure and corresponding noise doses for churches,working sites and social centers were also calculated using the respective formulae.Results The noise levels were found to be high above the prescribed Ghana Environmental Protection Agency(EPA)standards,with traffic noise levels ranging from 65.00 dBA to 98 dBA,while that of churches ranged from 73.10 dBA to 107.00 dBA and that of working sites from 74.4 dBA to 115.2 dBA.The calculated noise exposure and corresponding noise dose for churches ranged from 75.1 dBA to 104.6 dBA(i.e.,10%‒8000%),while that for workers’sites were from 75.8 dBA to 115 dBA(i.e.,12%‒90000%).Statistical regression and correlation analyses were done for diseases such as hypertension,ear problems and sleep disturbances.Conclusion The study has therefore revealed that the noise levels in the study area are very high and corresponding health impacts are prominent.Stakeholders and authorities should devise mitigating measures to combat this rising menace.The results revealed a strong positive correlation between noise and corresponding health impacts.Despite the positive correlation there are other causes and effects to the mentioned diseases.展开更多
The objective was to assess the impact on health due to the exposure to air pollution derived from the renewal of the urban bus fleet in S?o Paulo. The study analyzed the substitution of the bus fleet through the vari...The objective was to assess the impact on health due to the exposure to air pollution derived from the renewal of the urban bus fleet in S?o Paulo. The study analyzed the substitution of the bus fleet through the variation of the concentration of atmospheric pollutants such as PM10 in the municipality of S?o Paulo and its associated health’s benefits values compared to the investments performed in the bus fleet renewal. PM10 average annual reduction due to the bus improvement system resulted on 22.3%. A cost-benefit evaluation considered the renewal investments’ costs compared to the obtained valued health benefits and it resulted in 4.31. Although the result may suggest a not viable investment, it must be observed that air pollution reduction favors health impacts and that this relation could be improved if additional investments on sustainable transportation increase.展开更多
An extensive review and analysis of the available global energy sources data and information from 38 countries including Pakistan, and their impacts （socio-economic, environmental, and health） shows that one of the ...An extensive review and analysis of the available global energy sources data and information from 38 countries including Pakistan, and their impacts （socio-economic, environmental, and health） shows that one of the most sustainable and environment friendly energy options （especially considering rural areas） is renewable energy （solar and wind）, while other options （in descending order） are hydro, nuclear and coal. The use of ＂oil and gas＂ as energy option is not cost effective due to its serious environmental, health and financial implications. The cost of producing 1 KWh of energy from oil and gas in Pakistan is around Rs. 20 （U.S. $ 0.19）, while the same costs for hydro power and coal are 1/10th and ~nd respectively. Appropriate and suitable energy options are proposed in view of the current energy situation, available natural resources （water, coal, wind and sun）, serious energy conservation efforts and efficient usage of available energy.展开更多
The health effects of air pollution have attracted considerable attention in China.In this review,the status of air pollution in China is briefly presented.The impacts of air pollution on the health of the respiratory...The health effects of air pollution have attracted considerable attention in China.In this review,the status of air pollution in China is briefly presented.The impacts of air pollution on the health of the respiratory system,the circulatory system,the nervous system,the digestive system,the urinary system,pregnancy and life expectancy are highlighted.Additionally,China’s actions to control air pollution and their effects are briefly introduced.Finally,the challenges and perspectives of the health effects of air pollution are provided.We believe that this review will provide a promising perspective on the health impacts of air pollution in China,and further elicit more attention from governments and researchers worldwide.展开更多
1.Introduction.From time immemorial the natural environment has impacted the health of plants,animals and humans.Although many of the impacts are negative causing a wide range of non-communicative health problems,the ...1.Introduction.From time immemorial the natural environment has impacted the health of plants,animals and humans.Although many of the impacts are negative causing a wide range of non-communicative health problems,the natural environment also provides the necessary nutrients and essential elements that sustain life.For millennia various cultures have been aware of health impacts of the environment and much of the early literature offered advice as to what minerals or rocks were to be used to address these issues.展开更多
The source-receptor matrix of PM_(2.5)concentration from local and regional sources in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei(BTH)and surrounding provinces has been created in previous studies.However,because the spatial distribut...The source-receptor matrix of PM_(2.5)concentration from local and regional sources in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei(BTH)and surrounding provinces has been created in previous studies.However,because the spatial distribution of concentration does not necessarily match with that of the population,such concentration-based source-receptor matrix may not fully reflect the importance of pollutant control effectiveness in reducing the PM_(2.5)-related health impacts.To demonstrate that,we study the source-receptor matrix of the PM_(2.5)-related deaths instead,with inclusion of the spatial correlations between the concentrations and the population.The advanced source apportionment numerical model combined with the integrated exposure-response functions is used for BTH and surrounding regions in 2017.We observed that the relative contribution to PM_(2.5)-related deaths of local emissions was 0.75%to 20.77%larger than that of PM_(2.5)concentrations.Such results address the importance of local emissions control for reducing health impacts of PM_(2.5)particularly for local residents.Contribution of regional transport to PM_(2.5)-related deaths in rural area was 22%larger than that in urban area due to the spatial pattern of regional transport which was more related to the rural population.This resulted in an environmental inequality in the sense that people staying in rural area with access to less educational resources are subjected to higher impacts from regional transport as compared with their more resourceful and knowledgeable urban compatriots.An unexpected benefit from the multi-regional joint controls is suggested for its effectiveness in reducing the regional transport of PM_(2.5)pollution thus mitigating the associated environmental inequality.展开更多
Background: The Ethiopian flower industry is growing fast with successful diversification of export products under greenhouse structures. Higher temperatures in the greenhouses pose a serious threat to the health of w...Background: The Ethiopian flower industry is growing fast with successful diversification of export products under greenhouse structures. Higher temperatures in the greenhouses pose a serious threat to the health of workers and add to the risk of occupational heat stress. Excessive heat in workplace settings also reduces work capacity and labour productivity. This study aims to investigate the level of heat exposure, and workers’ and managers’ perceptions and behavioural responses towards extreme heat exposure in a warming climate. Methods: We used the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) measured in representative greenhouses to capture the heat exposure during hotter and cooler seasons following ISO 7243 (generally risk of heat stress occurs when WBGT exceeds 26°C). A comparative cross-sectional study design with a stratified sampling method was used to assess occupational heat stress and workers’ perceptions of the impact of heat on their health and productivity in six different floriculture greenhouses in Ethiopia representing three different agro-ecologies and products. A questionnaire survey was conducted (30 managers/supervisors and 305 workers;76.1% female) to capture perceptions on heat exposures, symptoms of potential health impacts, productivity losses and coping mechanisms. Results: Heat exposure varied across different agroecologies, product types and greenhouse materials with a median WBGT Index of 25.5°C and a range from 18.1°C to 31.5°C. The impact of heat stress also varied across different employment sectors and geographical regions. Overall, workers in cut-flower greenhouses are exposed to higher than recommended WBGT Index (26°C) for 3 - 6 working hours daily. 65% of the managers reported that heat stress has a significant impact on the workers’ labour productivity, but do not have guidance about working in hot conditions. Workers reported more heat-related health issues and reduced productivity, especially in the mid-altitude greenhouses. About 50% of the workers reported that heat exposure decreased work productivity during hot hours. Sweating, exhaustion, heat-rashes, dehydration, crumps, nausea and headache were self-reported health issues. Labour productivity losses ranged from no loss to 19.5% in the mid- and low-altitudes. Conclusions and Recommendations: Excessive workplace heat in the greenhouses is both an occupational health hazard and detrimental to productivity in the floriculture industry. However, the level of understanding and actions on the ground regarding occupational heat stress are low. The code of conduct in place now does not consider the occupational heat stress issues. Multiple actions (engineering, management, training and policy-related recommendations) have to be implemented by Ethiopian Horticultural Producers and Exporters Association (EHPEA) and farm owners to mitigate heat stress and loss of productivity. Designing and implementing these heat prevention strategies and incorporating them into the code of conduct is in the interests of both employers and employees.展开更多
Urban agriculture is gaining recognition for its potential contributions to environmental resilience and climate change adaptation,providing advantages such as urban greening,reduced heat island effects,and decreased ...Urban agriculture is gaining recognition for its potential contributions to environmental resilience and climate change adaptation,providing advantages such as urban greening,reduced heat island effects,and decreased air pollution.Moreover,it indirectly supports communities during weather events and natural disasters,ensuring food security and fostering community cohesion.However,concerns about planetary health risks persist in highly urbanized and climate-affected areas.Employing electronic databases such as Web of Science and PubMed and adhering to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines,we identified 55 relevant papers to comprehend the planetary health risks associated with urban agriculture,The literature review identified five distinct health risks related to urban agriculture:(1)trace metal risks in urban farms;(2)health risks associated with wastewater irrigation;(3)zoonotic risks;(4)other health risks;and(5)social and economic risks.The study highlights that urban agriculture,while emphasizing environmental benefits,particularly raises concerns about trace metal bioaccumulation in soil and vegetables,posing health risks for populations.Other well studied risks included wastewater irrigation and backyard livestock farming.The main limitations in the available literature were in studying infectious diseases and antibiotic resistance associated with urban agriculture.展开更多
The accelerated growth of the vehicular fleet, the modernization of large urban centers, and the few adjustments to the road network in Fortaleza have intensified the problems of traffic and emissions of atmospheric p...The accelerated growth of the vehicular fleet, the modernization of large urban centers, and the few adjustments to the road network in Fortaleza have intensified the problems of traffic and emissions of atmospheric pollutants, highlighting the necessity for strategic urban planning initiatives to address the escalating issues of traffic and pollution. With the objective of analyzing the indices of concentrations of atmospheric pollutants and estimating how these levels can affect human health, this work consists of a study of the analysis of air quality in the intense trade region of Fortaleza. For this, the analysis zone was divided into three perimeters (Major - Medium - Minor), where each perimeter was analyzed at 7 am, 12 noon and 5 pm. Concentrations of the type of O<sub>3</sub>, particulate matter (PM<sub>2.5</sub> and PM<sub>10</sub>), CO<sub>2</sub> and HCHO were collected. Our results demonstrate that most of the analyses are within the limits of current legislation;however, at certain times and perimeters, the analyses of CO<sub>2</sub> and HCHO exceeded the established limits. In view of the above, we conclude that public policies to control air quality are necessary to reduce the damage to human health and the environment caused by pollutants.展开更多
China's coal dominated energy pattern has resulted in large amount of SO 2 emissions. Estimate of the sulfur related health damage cost is necessary to help perform systematic cost benefit analysis and set nat...China's coal dominated energy pattern has resulted in large amount of SO 2 emissions. Estimate of the sulfur related health damage cost is necessary to help perform systematic cost benefit analysis and set national energy and emissions control priorities. Current researches were confined to gaseous SO 2 in urban areas; however, secondary sulfate (SO 2- 4) particles can exert serious impact in a wider region. Based on the concept of “intake fraction', CALPUFF long range dispersion model and 180 sample emission sources, multiple regression equation was obtained with good correlation( r =0 85), which illustrates that populations were key parameters to determine intake fraction but source characteristics were insignificant. Based on the formula and the population distribution data, county level intake fractions were mapped for Hunan Province(range: 1 1×10 -6 -3 2×10 -6 ) of China. A combination of county level SO 2 emissions with the intake fractions yields a total 1 98 tons of sulfate(SO 2- 4) inhalation, and resulting total health damage cost to be 0 76(willingness to pay approach, WTP) or 0 16(human capital approach, HC) billion USD in 1997, about 2.1% or 0 45% of GDP in Hunan in 1997. Average health damage cost per ton of SO 2 emission is 930(WTP) or 200 USD(HC). The results demonstrated that more stringent regulation should be forced.展开更多
The Urban Heat Island Effect（UHI）has now become a commonly observed phenomenon worldwide.Indeed,it has become a significant environmental effect of urbanisation.In Malaysia,research results showed that UHI effects a...The Urban Heat Island Effect（UHI）has now become a commonly observed phenomenon worldwide.Indeed,it has become a significant environmental effect of urbanisation.In Malaysia,research results showed that UHI effects are very evident in several cities such as Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya.UHI effect has long been observed to cause temperature of cities.展开更多
In light of the practical need for research to inform policy in Beijing,this study evaluates the economic cost of the impact of PM 10 pollution in Beijing from 2001 to 2006,taking health as the main impact,and mortali...In light of the practical need for research to inform policy in Beijing,this study evaluates the economic cost of the impact of PM 10 pollution in Beijing from 2001 to 2006,taking health as the main impact,and mortality as the main outcome.Based on the literature review,this study adopts relatively conservative parameters as the basis for calculating the health impacts.It concludes that nearly 30%of mortality among registered residents above age 30 in Beijing can be attributed to PM 10 pollution,and that the economic cost equals 0.8%-1.2%of the city's GDP over the same period.This is lower than the results of previous studies,but still high enough to warrant a commitment to solve the city's air pollution problem.展开更多
In January 2013, China suffered large-scale haze weather four times, affecting 30 cities in all. The average number of haze weather days in many regions was higher than the same period in every year since 1961. PM2.s,...In January 2013, China suffered large-scale haze weather four times, affecting 30 cities in all. The average number of haze weather days in many regions was higher than the same period in every year since 1961. PM2.s, which is defined as fine particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less, is the main health hazard in the context of haze weather. It can carry large amounts of poisonous and harmful substances, and penetrate deep into the lungs and blood circulation through the respiratory tract, thereby affecting human health.展开更多
This review delves into the detrimental impact of alcohol consumption on internal organs and reproductive health,elucidating the underlying mechanisms involving the Toll-like receptor 4(TLR4)/Nuclear factor kappa ligh...This review delves into the detrimental impact of alcohol consumption on internal organs and reproductive health,elucidating the underlying mechanisms involving the Toll-like receptor 4(TLR4)/Nuclear factor kappa light chain enhancer of activated B cells(NF-kB)pathway and the Cytochrome P4502E1(CYP2E1)/reactive oxygen spe-cies(ROS)/nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2(Nrf2)pathways.The TLR4/NF-kB pathway,crucial for inflammatory and immune responses,triggers the production of pro-inflammatory agents and type-1 interferon,disrupting the balance between inflammatory and antioxidant responses when tissues are chronically exposed to al-cohol.Alcohol-induced dysbiosis in gut microbes heightens gut wall permeability to pathogen-associated molecular patterns(PAMPs),leading to liver cell infection and subsequent inflammation.Concurrently,CYP2E1-mediated alcohol metabolism gen-erates ROS,causing oxidative stress and damaging cells,lipids,proteins,and deoxy-ribonucleic acid(DNA).To counteract this inflammatory imbalance,Nrf2 regulates gene expression,inhibiting inflammatory progression and promoting antioxidant re-sponses.Excessive alcohol intake results in elevated liver enzymes(ADH,CYP2E1,and catalase),ROS,NADH,acetaldehyde,and acetate,leading to damage in vital organs such as the heart,brain,and lungs.Moreover,alcohol negatively affects reproduc-tive health by inhibiting the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis,causing infertility in both men and women.These findings underscore the profound health concerns associated with alcohol-induced damage,emphasizing the need for public awareness regarding the intricate interplay between immune responses and the multi-organ im-pacts of alcohol consumption.展开更多
<p align="justify"> <span style="font-family:Verdana;">Background: Malaria is one of the main health problems in Yemen. Health education is essential for the control of diseases such as...<p align="justify"> <span style="font-family:Verdana;">Background: Malaria is one of the main health problems in Yemen. Health education is essential for the control of diseases such as malaria. School-age children represent 25% of Yemen’s population. Schools children can convey the knowledge and skills that they acquire at school to the community, thus increasing general community awareness about malaria. Aim to determine the impact of school-based malaria education intervention on knowledge, attitude and practice of school children towards malaria prevention and control. Methods: We conducted a community-based trial, intervention and non-intervention comparison (exposed & non-exposed), in four randomly selected districts (rural and urban) of Taiz governorate. This study was conducted in four districts of Taiz governorate. The study population was 2130 pupils of grade 6, 7, and 8 in primary schools, chosen from four randomly selected districts;two of them were rural and the others urban. Four schools and their pupils (1065 pupils) were chosen for the study and assigned as an intervention group and four schools with their pupils (1065) were chosen for the study and assigned as a non-intervention (1065 pupils). Data were collected using questioner in intervention and non-intervention schools (three months apart). The major intervention activities included lectures about malaria, distribution of educational materials. χ<sup>2</sup> was used to analyze differences. Results: Health education activities in schools were associated with the increased knowledge of malaria symptoms and methods of prevention. The mean knowledge of malaria symptoms is higher in the intervention schools 4.4 ± 1.9, compared with 2.1 ± 1.4 in the non-intervention group. With statistically significant difference (P < 0.001), also the positive attitude and practice toward malaria was higher to be (48%) in the intervention group;compared with (35%) in the non-intervention group the difference was statistically significant. The knowledge of mode of malaria transmission was higher in the intervention schools to be (86.2%) compared with (59.1%) in the non-intervention group, with statistically significant deference (P value <0.001). The knowledge of fever as a main malaria symptom was higher to be (90.4%) in the intervention schools compared with (63.6%) in the non-intervention schools with statistically significant deference. Conclusions and Recommendation: This study concludes that the health education intervention in primary schools in Taize governorate had a positive impact on the knowledge, attitude and practice of pupils. We recommend to conduct similar methods of the health education activities in schools with suitable modifications to reach all schools level.展开更多
Objective: To explore the presence of Zika virus(ZIKV) in Bangladesh and to understand the associated risk factors.Methods: A retrospective sero-surveillance was performed on stored serum samples of dengue surveillanc...Objective: To explore the presence of Zika virus(ZIKV) in Bangladesh and to understand the associated risk factors.Methods: A retrospective sero-surveillance was performed on stored serum samples of dengue surveillance conducted from 2013 to 2016. Real time RT-PCR was performed on randomly selected acute serum samples to detect the Zika virus nucleic acid.Results: Of 200 samples screened, one was found positive for ZIKV by real time RTPCR and further confirmed by genome sequencing. The case was a 65 years old male from a metropolitan city of Bangladesh who had no history of travel outside Bangladesh.Phylogenetic analysis of partial E gene sequences from Bangladeshi isolates demonstrated a close relationship with ZIKV from Brazil and current South American strains clustering within a monophyletic clade distinct from African lineage.Conclusions: Presence of ZIKV raises serious public health concerns in Bangladesh owing to its association with congenital anomalies/neurological-manifestations. We,therefore, recommend every suspected viral fever patient, particularly pregnant women be screened for ZIKV infection to rule out yet another emerging infection in Bangladesh.展开更多
Objective To investigate the potential impact of ambient air pollution on public health under various traffic policies in Shanghai. Methods The exposure level of Shanghai residents to air pollution under various plann...Objective To investigate the potential impact of ambient air pollution on public health under various traffic policies in Shanghai. Methods The exposure level of Shanghai residents to air pollution under various planned traffic scenarios was estimated, and the public health impact was assessed using concentration-response functions derived from available epidemiological studies. Results Our results showed that ambient air pollution in relation to traffic scenarios had a significant impact on the future health status of Shanghai residents. Compared with the base case scenario, implementation of various traffic scenarios could prevent 759-1574, 1885-2420, and 2277-2650 PM10-related avoidable deaths （mean-value） in 2010, 2015, and 2020, respectively. It could also decrease the incidence of several relevant diseases. Conclusion Our findings emphasize the need to consider air pollution-related health effects as an important impact of traffic policy in Shanghai.展开更多
The Gounti Yéna valley is the main watercourse that divides the left bank of the city of Niamey into two unequal parts. The area of its watershed is estimated at about 62 km<sup>2</sup>. The objective...The Gounti Yéna valley is the main watercourse that divides the left bank of the city of Niamey into two unequal parts. The area of its watershed is estimated at about 62 km<sup>2</sup>. The objective of this study is on the one hand to evaluate the current state of the physico-chemical and bacteriological quality of the water of the Gounti Yéna basin and on the other hand to define the risks of water pollution and its origin in the face of the phenomenon of the rise in the water table of this basin by defining some health risks linked to these impacts. In order to properly carry out this work, we carried out a study of the evolution of the physicochemical and bacteriological parameters of the water of the Gounti Yéna basin during the period from November 2020 to October 2021, at three sampling points chosen from upstream to downstream of the basin then entomological surveys and among the health centers of the capital. The results obtained showed that the physico-chemical quality of water in the Gounti Yéna basin is influenced by climatic factors (precipitation and temperature) and anthropogenic actions. This study also highlighted the presence of faecal contamination in the water of the Gounti Yéna basin with a greater degree during the rainy season. This contamination remains worrying and constitutes a health risk causing waterborne diseases. The stagnation of the various bodies of water is also a favorable place for the development and spread of vector-borne diseases.展开更多
Air pollution is one of the leading cause of death for underdeveloped as well as developed countries. In 2011, the air pollution was the second leading cause of death in one of the main hospitals of the Kathmandu Vall...Air pollution is one of the leading cause of death for underdeveloped as well as developed countries. In 2011, the air pollution was the second leading cause of death in one of the main hospitals of the Kathmandu Valley, Nepal, and it was the third leading cause in the United States. Burning fossil fuels for transportation was one of the major causes. Among various impacts of the air pollution, COPD （chronic obstructive pulmonary disease） was one of the main consequences. In the 570 km2 Kathmandu Valley, vehicle registration was increased from 45,871 in 1990/1991 to 570,145 in 2010/2011, an increase of over 12-fold over 20 years. The vehicle registration and number of COPD patients＇ data were collected from various government divisions. In addition, the average daily travel distance and fuel mileage data were collected with a survey with residents of the Kathmandu Valley. This paper calculates the amount of carbon dioxide （CO2） emissions by transportation sector and determines correlation between CO2 emissions and COPD patients. Results show that there was a very high level of CO2 emissions, and it was positively correlated with the number of COPD patients in the valley.展开更多
基金supported by the Science and Technology Innovation 2030 Major Project(2023ZD0508506)National Key Research and Development Program of China(2022YFC2305104).
文摘Climate change poses a significant threat to global health.It exacerbates existing health challenges and generates new ones.Therefore,innovative solutions to mitigate and adapt to its adverse effects are urgently required.This article explores the potential of digital health technologies to address the challenge posed by climate change-related health issues.It discusses their dual functionality of diminishing the carbon footprint of healthcare services and increasing understanding and governance of climate-sensitive diseases.Notably,with advanced technologies such as Generative medical AI(GMAI)presenting environmental concerns like substantial energy consumption during data processing and the generation of electronic waste,it is essential to underscore the significance of their responsible development and implementation of these technologies.This will ensure that the benefits of digital health technologies can be maximized while minimizing their ecological drawbacks.This study,therefore propose,a framework for leveraging digital health technologies to support climate change adaptation,including disease surveillance,telemedicine,patient support systems,and public awareness campaigns.
文摘Objective Communities in the developing countries such as Ghana have little knowledge of effects of noise pollution on human health,which is demonstrated by their attitude towards this menace.This study assessed the health impacts of noise pollution and its spatial distribution in the Tarkwa Mining Community(TMC)of Ghana.Methods To achieve the study objective,questionnaires were administered;as well as collation of health data from major health centers in the study area.Noise levels were measured and noise map produced using geographic information system(GIS)techniques.Overlay maps of some diseases were done using overlay techniques in GIS.The noise exposure and corresponding noise doses for churches,working sites and social centers were also calculated using the respective formulae.Results The noise levels were found to be high above the prescribed Ghana Environmental Protection Agency(EPA)standards,with traffic noise levels ranging from 65.00 dBA to 98 dBA,while that of churches ranged from 73.10 dBA to 107.00 dBA and that of working sites from 74.4 dBA to 115.2 dBA.The calculated noise exposure and corresponding noise dose for churches ranged from 75.1 dBA to 104.6 dBA(i.e.,10%‒8000%),while that for workers’sites were from 75.8 dBA to 115 dBA(i.e.,12%‒90000%).Statistical regression and correlation analyses were done for diseases such as hypertension,ear problems and sleep disturbances.Conclusion The study has therefore revealed that the noise levels in the study area are very high and corresponding health impacts are prominent.Stakeholders and authorities should devise mitigating measures to combat this rising menace.The results revealed a strong positive correlation between noise and corresponding health impacts.Despite the positive correlation there are other causes and effects to the mentioned diseases.
文摘The objective was to assess the impact on health due to the exposure to air pollution derived from the renewal of the urban bus fleet in S?o Paulo. The study analyzed the substitution of the bus fleet through the variation of the concentration of atmospheric pollutants such as PM10 in the municipality of S?o Paulo and its associated health’s benefits values compared to the investments performed in the bus fleet renewal. PM10 average annual reduction due to the bus improvement system resulted on 22.3%. A cost-benefit evaluation considered the renewal investments’ costs compared to the obtained valued health benefits and it resulted in 4.31. Although the result may suggest a not viable investment, it must be observed that air pollution reduction favors health impacts and that this relation could be improved if additional investments on sustainable transportation increase.
文摘An extensive review and analysis of the available global energy sources data and information from 38 countries including Pakistan, and their impacts （socio-economic, environmental, and health） shows that one of the most sustainable and environment friendly energy options （especially considering rural areas） is renewable energy （solar and wind）, while other options （in descending order） are hydro, nuclear and coal. The use of ＂oil and gas＂ as energy option is not cost effective due to its serious environmental, health and financial implications. The cost of producing 1 KWh of energy from oil and gas in Pakistan is around Rs. 20 （U.S. $ 0.19）, while the same costs for hydro power and coal are 1/10th and ~nd respectively. Appropriate and suitable energy options are proposed in view of the current energy situation, available natural resources （water, coal, wind and sun）, serious energy conservation efforts and efficient usage of available energy.
基金The authors acknowledge the financial support received from the Foundation of NUIST-UoR International Research Institute,and the Start-up Foundation for Introducing Talent of NUIST(2018r056).
文摘The health effects of air pollution have attracted considerable attention in China.In this review,the status of air pollution in China is briefly presented.The impacts of air pollution on the health of the respiratory system,the circulatory system,the nervous system,the digestive system,the urinary system,pregnancy and life expectancy are highlighted.Additionally,China’s actions to control air pollution and their effects are briefly introduced.Finally,the challenges and perspectives of the health effects of air pollution are provided.We believe that this review will provide a promising perspective on the health impacts of air pollution in China,and further elicit more attention from governments and researchers worldwide.
文摘1.Introduction.From time immemorial the natural environment has impacted the health of plants,animals and humans.Although many of the impacts are negative causing a wide range of non-communicative health problems,the natural environment also provides the necessary nutrients and essential elements that sustain life.For millennia various cultures have been aware of health impacts of the environment and much of the early literature offered advice as to what minerals or rocks were to be used to address these issues.
基金National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.41907190&21625701)Beijing Municipal Commission of Science and Technology(Z191100009119001&Z191100009119004)Tsinghua-Toyota Research Center.This work was completed on the“Explorer 100”cluster system of Tsinghua National Laboratory for Information Science and Technology.
文摘The source-receptor matrix of PM_(2.5)concentration from local and regional sources in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei(BTH)and surrounding provinces has been created in previous studies.However,because the spatial distribution of concentration does not necessarily match with that of the population,such concentration-based source-receptor matrix may not fully reflect the importance of pollutant control effectiveness in reducing the PM_(2.5)-related health impacts.To demonstrate that,we study the source-receptor matrix of the PM_(2.5)-related deaths instead,with inclusion of the spatial correlations between the concentrations and the population.The advanced source apportionment numerical model combined with the integrated exposure-response functions is used for BTH and surrounding regions in 2017.We observed that the relative contribution to PM_(2.5)-related deaths of local emissions was 0.75%to 20.77%larger than that of PM_(2.5)concentrations.Such results address the importance of local emissions control for reducing health impacts of PM_(2.5)particularly for local residents.Contribution of regional transport to PM_(2.5)-related deaths in rural area was 22%larger than that in urban area due to the spatial pattern of regional transport which was more related to the rural population.This resulted in an environmental inequality in the sense that people staying in rural area with access to less educational resources are subjected to higher impacts from regional transport as compared with their more resourceful and knowledgeable urban compatriots.An unexpected benefit from the multi-regional joint controls is suggested for its effectiveness in reducing the regional transport of PM_(2.5)pollution thus mitigating the associated environmental inequality.
文摘Background: The Ethiopian flower industry is growing fast with successful diversification of export products under greenhouse structures. Higher temperatures in the greenhouses pose a serious threat to the health of workers and add to the risk of occupational heat stress. Excessive heat in workplace settings also reduces work capacity and labour productivity. This study aims to investigate the level of heat exposure, and workers’ and managers’ perceptions and behavioural responses towards extreme heat exposure in a warming climate. Methods: We used the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) measured in representative greenhouses to capture the heat exposure during hotter and cooler seasons following ISO 7243 (generally risk of heat stress occurs when WBGT exceeds 26°C). A comparative cross-sectional study design with a stratified sampling method was used to assess occupational heat stress and workers’ perceptions of the impact of heat on their health and productivity in six different floriculture greenhouses in Ethiopia representing three different agro-ecologies and products. A questionnaire survey was conducted (30 managers/supervisors and 305 workers;76.1% female) to capture perceptions on heat exposures, symptoms of potential health impacts, productivity losses and coping mechanisms. Results: Heat exposure varied across different agroecologies, product types and greenhouse materials with a median WBGT Index of 25.5°C and a range from 18.1°C to 31.5°C. The impact of heat stress also varied across different employment sectors and geographical regions. Overall, workers in cut-flower greenhouses are exposed to higher than recommended WBGT Index (26°C) for 3 - 6 working hours daily. 65% of the managers reported that heat stress has a significant impact on the workers’ labour productivity, but do not have guidance about working in hot conditions. Workers reported more heat-related health issues and reduced productivity, especially in the mid-altitude greenhouses. About 50% of the workers reported that heat exposure decreased work productivity during hot hours. Sweating, exhaustion, heat-rashes, dehydration, crumps, nausea and headache were self-reported health issues. Labour productivity losses ranged from no loss to 19.5% in the mid- and low-altitudes. Conclusions and Recommendations: Excessive workplace heat in the greenhouses is both an occupational health hazard and detrimental to productivity in the floriculture industry. However, the level of understanding and actions on the ground regarding occupational heat stress are low. The code of conduct in place now does not consider the occupational heat stress issues. Multiple actions (engineering, management, training and policy-related recommendations) have to be implemented by Ethiopian Horticultural Producers and Exporters Association (EHPEA) and farm owners to mitigate heat stress and loss of productivity. Designing and implementing these heat prevention strategies and incorporating them into the code of conduct is in the interests of both employers and employees.
文摘Urban agriculture is gaining recognition for its potential contributions to environmental resilience and climate change adaptation,providing advantages such as urban greening,reduced heat island effects,and decreased air pollution.Moreover,it indirectly supports communities during weather events and natural disasters,ensuring food security and fostering community cohesion.However,concerns about planetary health risks persist in highly urbanized and climate-affected areas.Employing electronic databases such as Web of Science and PubMed and adhering to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines,we identified 55 relevant papers to comprehend the planetary health risks associated with urban agriculture,The literature review identified five distinct health risks related to urban agriculture:(1)trace metal risks in urban farms;(2)health risks associated with wastewater irrigation;(3)zoonotic risks;(4)other health risks;and(5)social and economic risks.The study highlights that urban agriculture,while emphasizing environmental benefits,particularly raises concerns about trace metal bioaccumulation in soil and vegetables,posing health risks for populations.Other well studied risks included wastewater irrigation and backyard livestock farming.The main limitations in the available literature were in studying infectious diseases and antibiotic resistance associated with urban agriculture.
文摘The accelerated growth of the vehicular fleet, the modernization of large urban centers, and the few adjustments to the road network in Fortaleza have intensified the problems of traffic and emissions of atmospheric pollutants, highlighting the necessity for strategic urban planning initiatives to address the escalating issues of traffic and pollution. With the objective of analyzing the indices of concentrations of atmospheric pollutants and estimating how these levels can affect human health, this work consists of a study of the analysis of air quality in the intense trade region of Fortaleza. For this, the analysis zone was divided into three perimeters (Major - Medium - Minor), where each perimeter was analyzed at 7 am, 12 noon and 5 pm. Concentrations of the type of O<sub>3</sub>, particulate matter (PM<sub>2.5</sub> and PM<sub>10</sub>), CO<sub>2</sub> and HCHO were collected. Our results demonstrate that most of the analyses are within the limits of current legislation;however, at certain times and perimeters, the analyses of CO<sub>2</sub> and HCHO exceeded the established limits. In view of the above, we conclude that public policies to control air quality are necessary to reduce the damage to human health and the environment caused by pollutants.
文摘China's coal dominated energy pattern has resulted in large amount of SO 2 emissions. Estimate of the sulfur related health damage cost is necessary to help perform systematic cost benefit analysis and set national energy and emissions control priorities. Current researches were confined to gaseous SO 2 in urban areas; however, secondary sulfate (SO 2- 4) particles can exert serious impact in a wider region. Based on the concept of “intake fraction', CALPUFF long range dispersion model and 180 sample emission sources, multiple regression equation was obtained with good correlation( r =0 85), which illustrates that populations were key parameters to determine intake fraction but source characteristics were insignificant. Based on the formula and the population distribution data, county level intake fractions were mapped for Hunan Province(range: 1 1×10 -6 -3 2×10 -6 ) of China. A combination of county level SO 2 emissions with the intake fractions yields a total 1 98 tons of sulfate(SO 2- 4) inhalation, and resulting total health damage cost to be 0 76(willingness to pay approach, WTP) or 0 16(human capital approach, HC) billion USD in 1997, about 2.1% or 0 45% of GDP in Hunan in 1997. Average health damage cost per ton of SO 2 emission is 930(WTP) or 200 USD(HC). The results demonstrated that more stringent regulation should be forced.
基金funded by Grand Challenge-SUS(Sustainability Science)Grants GC002C-15SUS and GC002A-15SUS
文摘The Urban Heat Island Effect（UHI）has now become a commonly observed phenomenon worldwide.Indeed,it has become a significant environmental effect of urbanisation.In Malaysia,research results showed that UHI effects are very evident in several cities such as Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya.UHI effect has long been observed to cause temperature of cities.
基金Supported by the Research Fund for the Doctoral Program of Higher Education(Grant no.20070001049):pricing policy for resources products incidence of welfare impactBeijing Science and Technology Commission D09040903670905:Study on the Regional Air Pollution Control Strategy and Policy
文摘In light of the practical need for research to inform policy in Beijing,this study evaluates the economic cost of the impact of PM 10 pollution in Beijing from 2001 to 2006,taking health as the main impact,and mortality as the main outcome.Based on the literature review,this study adopts relatively conservative parameters as the basis for calculating the health impacts.It concludes that nearly 30%of mortality among registered residents above age 30 in Beijing can be attributed to PM 10 pollution,and that the economic cost equals 0.8%-1.2%of the city's GDP over the same period.This is lower than the results of previous studies,but still high enough to warrant a commitment to solve the city's air pollution problem.
文摘In January 2013, China suffered large-scale haze weather four times, affecting 30 cities in all. The average number of haze weather days in many regions was higher than the same period in every year since 1961. PM2.s, which is defined as fine particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less, is the main health hazard in the context of haze weather. It can carry large amounts of poisonous and harmful substances, and penetrate deep into the lungs and blood circulation through the respiratory tract, thereby affecting human health.
基金supported by the Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences and the Library Resources,Monash University Malaysia
文摘This review delves into the detrimental impact of alcohol consumption on internal organs and reproductive health,elucidating the underlying mechanisms involving the Toll-like receptor 4(TLR4)/Nuclear factor kappa light chain enhancer of activated B cells(NF-kB)pathway and the Cytochrome P4502E1(CYP2E1)/reactive oxygen spe-cies(ROS)/nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2(Nrf2)pathways.The TLR4/NF-kB pathway,crucial for inflammatory and immune responses,triggers the production of pro-inflammatory agents and type-1 interferon,disrupting the balance between inflammatory and antioxidant responses when tissues are chronically exposed to al-cohol.Alcohol-induced dysbiosis in gut microbes heightens gut wall permeability to pathogen-associated molecular patterns(PAMPs),leading to liver cell infection and subsequent inflammation.Concurrently,CYP2E1-mediated alcohol metabolism gen-erates ROS,causing oxidative stress and damaging cells,lipids,proteins,and deoxy-ribonucleic acid(DNA).To counteract this inflammatory imbalance,Nrf2 regulates gene expression,inhibiting inflammatory progression and promoting antioxidant re-sponses.Excessive alcohol intake results in elevated liver enzymes(ADH,CYP2E1,and catalase),ROS,NADH,acetaldehyde,and acetate,leading to damage in vital organs such as the heart,brain,and lungs.Moreover,alcohol negatively affects reproduc-tive health by inhibiting the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis,causing infertility in both men and women.These findings underscore the profound health concerns associated with alcohol-induced damage,emphasizing the need for public awareness regarding the intricate interplay between immune responses and the multi-organ im-pacts of alcohol consumption.
文摘<p align="justify"> <span style="font-family:Verdana;">Background: Malaria is one of the main health problems in Yemen. Health education is essential for the control of diseases such as malaria. School-age children represent 25% of Yemen’s population. Schools children can convey the knowledge and skills that they acquire at school to the community, thus increasing general community awareness about malaria. Aim to determine the impact of school-based malaria education intervention on knowledge, attitude and practice of school children towards malaria prevention and control. Methods: We conducted a community-based trial, intervention and non-intervention comparison (exposed & non-exposed), in four randomly selected districts (rural and urban) of Taiz governorate. This study was conducted in four districts of Taiz governorate. The study population was 2130 pupils of grade 6, 7, and 8 in primary schools, chosen from four randomly selected districts;two of them were rural and the others urban. Four schools and their pupils (1065 pupils) were chosen for the study and assigned as an intervention group and four schools with their pupils (1065) were chosen for the study and assigned as a non-intervention (1065 pupils). Data were collected using questioner in intervention and non-intervention schools (three months apart). The major intervention activities included lectures about malaria, distribution of educational materials. χ<sup>2</sup> was used to analyze differences. Results: Health education activities in schools were associated with the increased knowledge of malaria symptoms and methods of prevention. The mean knowledge of malaria symptoms is higher in the intervention schools 4.4 ± 1.9, compared with 2.1 ± 1.4 in the non-intervention group. With statistically significant difference (P < 0.001), also the positive attitude and practice toward malaria was higher to be (48%) in the intervention group;compared with (35%) in the non-intervention group the difference was statistically significant. The knowledge of mode of malaria transmission was higher in the intervention schools to be (86.2%) compared with (59.1%) in the non-intervention group, with statistically significant deference (P value <0.001). The knowledge of fever as a main malaria symptom was higher to be (90.4%) in the intervention schools compared with (63.6%) in the non-intervention schools with statistically significant deference. Conclusions and Recommendation: This study concludes that the health education intervention in primary schools in Taize governorate had a positive impact on the knowledge, attitude and practice of pupils. We recommend to conduct similar methods of the health education activities in schools with suitable modifications to reach all schools level.
文摘Objective: To explore the presence of Zika virus(ZIKV) in Bangladesh and to understand the associated risk factors.Methods: A retrospective sero-surveillance was performed on stored serum samples of dengue surveillance conducted from 2013 to 2016. Real time RT-PCR was performed on randomly selected acute serum samples to detect the Zika virus nucleic acid.Results: Of 200 samples screened, one was found positive for ZIKV by real time RTPCR and further confirmed by genome sequencing. The case was a 65 years old male from a metropolitan city of Bangladesh who had no history of travel outside Bangladesh.Phylogenetic analysis of partial E gene sequences from Bangladeshi isolates demonstrated a close relationship with ZIKV from Brazil and current South American strains clustering within a monophyletic clade distinct from African lineage.Conclusions: Presence of ZIKV raises serious public health concerns in Bangladesh owing to its association with congenital anomalies/neurological-manifestations. We,therefore, recommend every suspected viral fever patient, particularly pregnant women be screened for ZIKV infection to rule out yet another emerging infection in Bangladesh.
基金supported by the Energy Foundation,Grant G-0309-07094Gong-Yi Program of China Ministry of Environmental Protection (No. 200809109)
文摘Objective To investigate the potential impact of ambient air pollution on public health under various traffic policies in Shanghai. Methods The exposure level of Shanghai residents to air pollution under various planned traffic scenarios was estimated, and the public health impact was assessed using concentration-response functions derived from available epidemiological studies. Results Our results showed that ambient air pollution in relation to traffic scenarios had a significant impact on the future health status of Shanghai residents. Compared with the base case scenario, implementation of various traffic scenarios could prevent 759-1574, 1885-2420, and 2277-2650 PM10-related avoidable deaths （mean-value） in 2010, 2015, and 2020, respectively. It could also decrease the incidence of several relevant diseases. Conclusion Our findings emphasize the need to consider air pollution-related health effects as an important impact of traffic policy in Shanghai.
文摘The Gounti Yéna valley is the main watercourse that divides the left bank of the city of Niamey into two unequal parts. The area of its watershed is estimated at about 62 km<sup>2</sup>. The objective of this study is on the one hand to evaluate the current state of the physico-chemical and bacteriological quality of the water of the Gounti Yéna basin and on the other hand to define the risks of water pollution and its origin in the face of the phenomenon of the rise in the water table of this basin by defining some health risks linked to these impacts. In order to properly carry out this work, we carried out a study of the evolution of the physicochemical and bacteriological parameters of the water of the Gounti Yéna basin during the period from November 2020 to October 2021, at three sampling points chosen from upstream to downstream of the basin then entomological surveys and among the health centers of the capital. The results obtained showed that the physico-chemical quality of water in the Gounti Yéna basin is influenced by climatic factors (precipitation and temperature) and anthropogenic actions. This study also highlighted the presence of faecal contamination in the water of the Gounti Yéna basin with a greater degree during the rainy season. This contamination remains worrying and constitutes a health risk causing waterborne diseases. The stagnation of the various bodies of water is also a favorable place for the development and spread of vector-borne diseases.
文摘Air pollution is one of the leading cause of death for underdeveloped as well as developed countries. In 2011, the air pollution was the second leading cause of death in one of the main hospitals of the Kathmandu Valley, Nepal, and it was the third leading cause in the United States. Burning fossil fuels for transportation was one of the major causes. Among various impacts of the air pollution, COPD （chronic obstructive pulmonary disease） was one of the main consequences. In the 570 km2 Kathmandu Valley, vehicle registration was increased from 45,871 in 1990/1991 to 570,145 in 2010/2011, an increase of over 12-fold over 20 years. The vehicle registration and number of COPD patients＇ data were collected from various government divisions. In addition, the average daily travel distance and fuel mileage data were collected with a survey with residents of the Kathmandu Valley. This paper calculates the amount of carbon dioxide （CO2） emissions by transportation sector and determines correlation between CO2 emissions and COPD patients. Results show that there was a very high level of CO2 emissions, and it was positively correlated with the number of COPD patients in the valley.
