FP MD 6708 - Human Health and the Environment

Environmental exposures contribute substantially to the etiology of many common and complex human diseases. This course will examine relationships between chemical, physical, and biological agents in the environment and human disease. Topics such as urban air pollution, heavy metal toxicology, radiation exposure, persistent organic pollutants, endocrine-disrupting chemicals, and children's environmental health will be discussed. These topics will be framed from the perspective of the individual experiencing health effects as well as from a regional and global perspective, addressing environmental health concerns as they relate to such things as urbanization, energy production, transportation, and climate change. Preventive measures to reduce health risks and the crucial role of health professionals in advocacy with regard to environmental health issues will be emphasized.