Environmental Health
68 Articles & Excerpts
PCBs in Food and Environment
by Health Canada
Low levels of PCBs are found in the environment, and as result, in foods. The presence of these contaminants in foods and the environment means that everyone can be exposed to very low levels of PCBs.
Laser Pointers: Health Safety
by Health Canada
Hand-held laser pointers are popular in Canada. Unfortunately, users are not knowledgeable about the intensity of the light and the effect it may have on the eye. If you look directly into the beam from a laser pointer for more than a minute and a half
Radon: Health Effects
by Health Canada
Exposure to high levels of radon increases the risk of developing lung cancer. This relationship has prompted concern that radon levels in some Canadian homes may pose a health risk.
Cool Tips for a Hot Season
by Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
In the heat of the summer, nothing beats a day at the beach or the lake: The breeze is cooling, the sun feels soothing and the water refreshing. But, as pleasant as the waterfront can be, it's not without problems from sunburn to jellyfish stings to food
Indoor Air and Dampness, Mould
by Health Canada
Reduced natural ventilation, too much humidity, the use of chemicals and other factors can lead to unhealthy air in your home or workplace, causing a number of health problems such as respiratory symptoms and allergies.
Respiratory Illness Caused by Mold and Dust: Farmer's Lung
by CDC
Farmers account for more than 30% of adults disabled by respiratory illness, yet a large percentage of farmers are nonsmokers. If you work in any one of these situations, then you need to be aware of Farmer's Lung as well as other respiratory hazards.
Arsenic in Drinking Water
by Health Canada
Arsenic is a natural element found widely in the earth's crust. It may be found in some drinking water supplies, including wells. Exposure to high levels of arsenic can cause health effects. There are trace amounts of arsenic in all living matter.
Formaldehyde and Indoor Air
by Health Canada
Formaldehyde is released from a variety of indoor sources, and is present at low levels in the air inside Canadian homes. Formaldehyde (CH2O) is a colorless gas. It is irritating and has a sharp odour. Formaldehyde is widely produced around the world
Effects of Lead on Human Health
by Health Canada
Lead occurs naturally in the environment and has many industrial uses. However, even small amounts of lead can be hazardous to human health. Everyone is exposed to trace amounts of lead through air, soil, household dust, food, drinking water and various
Stachybotrys Chartarum and Other Molds
by CDC
The term 'toxic mold' is not accurate. While certain molds are toxigenic, meaning they can produce toxins (specifically mycotoxins), the molds themselves are not toxic, or poisonous. Hazards presented by molds that may produce mycotoxins should
Air Pollution Effects on Respiratory Health
by CDC
The Air Pollution and Respiratory Health Program of the National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) leads CDC's fight against environmental-related respiratory illnesses, including asthma, and studies indoor
Ultraviolet Radiation From the Sun
by Health Canada
The earth's ozone layer is not as thick as it used to be and more ultraviolet radiation from the sun is reaching the Earth. Overexposure to ultraviolet radiation, often referred to as 'UV rays,' can cause skin cancer and other serious health effects.
Radiation Safety of Microwave Ovens
by Health Canada
Some people are concerned about the potential health effects of exposure to microwave energy when they use their microwave ovens. Microwave ovens provide a convenient way to thaw, cook, and reheat food.
Electric and Magnetic Fields' Health Effects
by Health Canada
There are concerns that daily exposure to electric and magnetic fields (EMFs) may cause health problems. These concerns are reflected in a number of reports that have attempted to link EMF exposure to a variety of health issues, including childhood cancer
Health Safety and Cellular Phones
by Health Canada
With the growing popularity of hand-held cellular phones (or cell phones), questions have been raised about the safety of being exposed to the radiofrequency (RF) energy they emit.
Aircraft Noise: Stress, Risks
by Health Canada
Jet aircraft are one of the most disturbing sources of noise in our environment. People who live in communities near airports have become increasingly concerned about potential health effects from aircraft noise.
Vermiculite Insulation Containing Amphibole Asbestos
by Health Canada
Some vermiculite insulation may contain amphibole asbestos fibres. These products can cause health risks if disturbed during maintenance, renovation or demolition. However, there is currently no evidence of risk to your health if the insulation is sealed
Computer Monitors and Health Safety
by Health Canada
There are concerns about possible health effects related to electric and magnetic fields from computer monitors and other types of video display terminals (VDTs). Headaches, skin disorders and adverse pregnancy outcomes (e.g., miscarriage, birth defects)
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
by CDC
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, refers to a group of diseases that cause airflow blockage and breathing-related problems. It includes emphysema, chronic bronchitis, and in some cases asthma.
Volcanic Ash Health Effects
by Health Canada
Occasional eruptions of volcanoes around the world have led to concerns about volcanic ash drifting into Canada and the respiratory problems it might cause. Volcanic ash is formed during explosive volcanic eruptions.
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