What are the Health Impacts of Environmental Exposure?
The health impacts of environmental exposure can range from acute to chronic conditions and can affect different systems in the body. Some common health impacts include:
Respiratory Diseases: Exposure to air pollutants can cause or exacerbate conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Cardiovascular Diseases: Long-term exposure to pollutants like particulate matter and heavy metals can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. Cancer: Exposure to carcinogens such as asbestos, benzene, and certain pesticides can increase the risk of various cancers. Neurological Disorders: Exposure to neurotoxins like lead and mercury can have detrimental effects on the nervous system, especially in developing children. Reproductive and Developmental Effects: Certain chemicals can affect reproductive health and fetal development, leading to birth defects and other complications.
