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Jokela-Pansini M, Ippolito R, Greenhough B, Lora-Wainwright A. Creating safety amidst chronic contamination: A mixed-method analysis of residents' experiences in a Southern Italian steel town. Soc Sci Med 2024; 349:116866. [PMID: 38677186 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2024.116866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024]
Abstract
This study analyses how residents create safety in Taranto, Italy, a city located next to one of the largest steel plants in Europe. Combining long-term ethnographic research with an online-based survey, our study shows that most respondents recognise and criticise the presence of environmental risks in their daily lives but encounter such risks in complex ways. Contrary to previous scholarship suggesting that pollution can result in alienating residents from their lived environment, this research shows that acute awareness of environmental risks does not necessarily undermine attachment to place but rather can co-exist with or even strengthen it. Our findings propose first that residents experience and understand environmental risk mostly through air pollution, but often situate risks outside of their own neighbourhood and inscribe different meanings to such risk. Second, residents mitigate environmental risk through practices aimed at creating safety, such as moving away from the industrial area or using everyday practices and reflecting on their responsibility for actions. Third, we argue that residents create safety through an attachment and entitlement to place and emotional detachment from pollution and institutional failures. Finally, in line with residents' concerns about safety and how to secure it, this study embraces a shift in its analytical focus from risk to the quest for safety. By doing so, it provides novel insights into environmental risk perception in industrially polluted areas and reveals the often-contradictory sentiments and practices that such areas invoke in residents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maaret Jokela-Pansini
- School of Geography and the Environment, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3QY, United Kingdom.
| | - Raffaele Ippolito
- School of Geography and the Environment, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3QY, United Kingdom.
| | - Beth Greenhough
- School of Geography and the Environment, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3QY, United Kingdom.
| | - Anna Lora-Wainwright
- School of Geography and the Environment, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3QY, United Kingdom.
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Quist AJL, Hovav A, Silverman AD, Shamasunder B, Johnston JE. Residents' experiences during a hydrogen sulfide crisis in Carson, California. Environ Health 2024; 23:31. [PMID: 38519920 PMCID: PMC10960400 DOI: 10.1186/s12940-024-01071-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In early October 2021, thousands of residents in Carson, California began complaining of malodors and headaches. Hydrogen sulfide (H2S), a noxious odorous gas, was measured at concentrations up to 7000 parts per billion (ppb) and remained above California's acute air quality standard of 30 ppb for a month. Intermittent elevations of H2S continued for 3 months. After 2 months of malodor in this environmental justice community, a government agency attributed the H2S to environmental pollution from a warehouse fire. Research has yielded conflicting results on the health effects of H2S exposure at levels that were experienced during this event. This research fills a critical need for understanding how people perceive and experience emergent environmental health events and will help shape future responses. METHODS Through a community-academic partnership, we conducted 6 focus groups with 33 participants who resided in the Carson area during the crisis. We sought to understand how this incident affected residents through facilitated discussion on topics including information acquisition, impressions of the emergency response, health symptoms, and ongoing impacts. RESULTS The majority of participants were women (n = 25), identified as Latina/o (n = 19), and rent their homes (n = 21). Participants described difficulty obtaining coherent information about the emergency, which resulted in feelings of abandonment. Most participants felt that local government and healthcare providers downplayed and/or disregarded their concerns despite ongoing odors and health symptoms. Participants described experiencing stress from the odors' unknown health effects and continued fear of future odor incidents. Residents sought to take control of the crisis through information sharing, community networking, and activism. Participants experienced longer term effects from this event, including increased awareness of pollution and reduced trust in local agencies. DISCUSSION This study demonstrates the necessity of clear, comprehensive, and prompt responses by relevant decisionmakers to chemical emergencies to appropriately address residents' fears, curb the spread of misinformation, and minimize adverse health effects. Participant responses also point to the benefit of supporting horizontal community networks for improved information sharing. By engaging directly with community members, researchers and disaster responders can better understand the various and complex impacts of chemical disasters and can improve response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arbor J L Quist
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, 1845 N Soto St., Los Angeles, CA, 90032, USA.
| | - April Hovav
- Department of Urban & Environmental Policy, Occidental College, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Alexander D Silverman
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, 1845 N Soto St., Los Angeles, CA, 90032, USA
| | - Bhavna Shamasunder
- Department of Urban & Environmental Policy, Occidental College, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jill E Johnston
- Department of Population and Public Health Sciences, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, 1845 N Soto St., Los Angeles, CA, 90032, USA
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Quist AJL, Hovav A, Silverman A, Shamasunder B, Johnston JE. Residents' experiences during a hydrogen sulfide crisis in Carson, California. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-3745719. [PMID: 38168211 PMCID: PMC10760216 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3745719/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Background In early October 2021, thousands of residents in Carson, California began complaining of malodors and headaches. The odor was identified as hydrogen sulfide (H2S), a noxious odorous gas. H2S was measured at concentrations up to 7000 parts per billion (ppb) and remained above California's acute air quality standard of 30 ppb for a month, with intermittent elevations continuing for 3 months. After 2 months of malodor in this environmental justice community, the H2S was attributed to a warehouse fire. Research has yielded conflicting results on the health effects of H2S exposure at levels that were experienced during this event. There remains a gap in understanding how people perceive and experience odor emergencies such as this H2S event. Methods Through a community-academic partnership, we conducted 6 focus groups in Carson with 33 participants who resided in the Carson area during the crisis. We sought to understand how this incident affected residents through facilitated discussion on topics including information acquisition, impressions of the emergency response, physical and mental health symptoms, and ongoing impacts. Results The majority of participants were women (n = 25), identified as Latina/o (n = 19), and rent their homes (n = 21). Participants described difficulty obtaining coherent information about the emergency, which resulted in feelings of abandonment. Most participants felt that local government and health care providers downplayed and/or disregarded their concerns despite ongoing odors and health symptoms. Participants described experiencing stress from the odors' unknown health effects and continued fear of future odor incidents. Residents sought to take control of the crisis through information sharing, community networking, and activism. Participants experienced longer term effects from this event, including increased awareness of pollution and reduced trust in local agencies. Discussion This study demonstrates the necessity of clear, comprehensive, and prompt responses by relevant decisionmakers to chemical emergencies to appropriately address residents' fears, curb the spread of misinformation, and minimize adverse health effects. Participant responses also point to the benefit of supporting horizontal community networks for improved information sharing. By engaging directly with community members, researchers and disaster responders can better understand the various and complex impacts of chemical disasters and can improve response.
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Chronic environmental contamination: A narrative review of psychosocial health consequences, risk factors, and pathways to community resilience. Soc Sci Med 2021; 276:113877. [PMID: 33812158 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2021.113877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
A body of psychological and social scientific evidence suggests that the experience of technological disaster or long-term exposure to environmental contamination can be psychologically stressful. Addressing the psychosocial impact in communities living with chronic contamination is therefore a vital part of improving their resilience. Guided by a synthetic theoretical model of the unique psychosocial impact of chronic environmental contamination (in contrast to natural and technological disasters, and background pollution), we undertook a narrative review to assess the current research on this important social problem. Relevant qualitative peer-reviewed studies and grey literature were examined to derive a model identifying likely factors increasing risk for distress in chronic contamination experience and actions that may be taken by public health professionals and local leaders to enhance community resilience and take health-protective actions. Based on our initial theoretical model and the literature reviewed, we emphasize the importance of considering both the material and social dimensions of chronic environmental contamination experience. For instance, our review of the qualitative literature suggests that individuals who attribute material health impacts to contamination, and who have the social experience of their concerns being delegitimized by responsible institutions, are most at risk for psychological stress. Psychological stress in the context of chronic contamination is an important potential public health burden and a key area for additional research.
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Guida Y, Carvalho GOD, Capella R, Pozo K, Lino AS, Azeredo A, Carvalho DFP, Braga ALF, Torres JPM, Meire RO. Atmospheric Occurrence of Organochlorine Pesticides and Inhalation Cancer Risk in Urban Areas at Southeast Brazil. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2021; 271:116359. [PMID: 33535363 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2020.116359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Revised: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) have been produced for almost a century and some of them are still used, even after they have been proved to be toxic, persistent, bioaccumulative and prone to long-range transport. Brazil has used and produced pesticides in industrial scales for both agricultural and public health purposes. Urban and industrial regions are of special concern due to their high population density and their increased exposure to chemical pollution, many times enhanced by chemical production, application or irregular dumping. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the occurrence of OCPs in outdoor air of urban sites from two major regions of southeast Brazil. Some of these sites have been affected by OCP production and their irregular dumping. Deterministic and probabilistic inhalation cancer risk (CR) assessments were conducted for the human populations exposed to OCPs in ambient air. Ambient air was mainly affected by Ʃ-HCH (median = 340 pg m-3) and Ʃ-DDT (median = 233 pg m-3), the only two OCPs registered for domissanitary purposes in Brazil. OCP concentrations tended to be higher in summer than in winter. Dumping sites resulted in the highest OCP atmospheric concentrations and, thus, in the highest CR estimations. Despite of all limitations, probabilistic simulations suggested that people living in the studied regions are exposed to an increased risk of hepatic cancer. Infants and toddlers (0 < 2 y) were exposed to the highest inhalation CRs compared to other age groups. Other exposure pathways (such as ingestion and dermic uptake) are needed for a more comprehensive risk assessment. Moreover, this study also highlights the need to review the human exposure to OCPs through inhalation and their respective CR in other impacted areas worldwide, especially where high levels of OCPs are still being measured.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yago Guida
- Laboratório de Micropoluentes Jan Japenga, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal Do Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas Filho, 373, 21941-902, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil; Laboratório de Radioisótopos Eduardo Penna Franca, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal Do Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas Filho, 373, 21941-902, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil.
| | - Gabriel Oliveira de Carvalho
- Laboratório de Radioisótopos Eduardo Penna Franca, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal Do Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas Filho, 373, 21941-902, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Raquel Capella
- Laboratório de Micropoluentes Jan Japenga, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal Do Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas Filho, 373, 21941-902, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil; Laboratório de Radioisótopos Eduardo Penna Franca, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal Do Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas Filho, 373, 21941-902, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Karla Pozo
- RECETOX, Research Centre for Toxic Compounds in the Environment, Masaryk University, Kamenice 753/5, 625 00, Brno, Czech Republic; Facultad de Ingeniería y Tecnología, Universidad San Sebastián, Lientur, 1457, Concepción, Bío Bío, Chile
| | - Adan Santos Lino
- Laboratório de Radioisótopos Eduardo Penna Franca, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal Do Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas Filho, 373, 21941-902, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Antonio Azeredo
- Laboratório de Radioisótopos Eduardo Penna Franca, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal Do Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas Filho, 373, 21941-902, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil; Laboratório de Toxicologia, Instituto de Estudos Em Saúde Coletiva Universidade Federal Do Rio de Janeiro, Av. Horácio Macedo, 21941-598, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Daniele Fernandes Pena Carvalho
- Laboratório de Radioisótopos Eduardo Penna Franca, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal Do Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas Filho, 373, 21941-902, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil; Curso de Ciências Biológicas, Instituto de Ciências da Saúde, Universidade Paulista, Avenida Francisco Manoel, S/N, 11075-110, Santos, SP, Brazil
| | - Alfésio Luís Ferreira Braga
- Grupo de Avaliação de Exposição e Risco Ambiental, Programa de Pós-graduação Em Saúde Coletiva, Universidade Católica de Santos, Avenida Conselheiro Nébias, 300, 11015-002, Santos, SP, Brazil
| | - João Paulo Machado Torres
- Laboratório de Micropoluentes Jan Japenga, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal Do Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas Filho, 373, 21941-902, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Rodrigo Ornellas Meire
- Laboratório de Micropoluentes Jan Japenga, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal Do Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas Filho, 373, 21941-902, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil; Laboratório de Radioisótopos Eduardo Penna Franca, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal Do Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas Filho, 373, 21941-902, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
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Banwell C, Housen T, Smurthwaite K, Trevenar S, Walker L, Todd K, Rosas M, Kirk M. Health and social concerns about living in three communities affected by per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS): A qualitative study in Australia. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0245141. [PMID: 33444329 PMCID: PMC7808650 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0245141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) is a public health issue globally. In Australia high concentrations of PFAS have been found in environments close to sites where Aqueous Film Forming Foams (AFFF) were historically used for firefighting activities. This has resulted in significant community concern about the potential long-term health effects of these chemicals. OBJECTIVE We describe residents' perceptions and experiences of PFAS in three regional Australian towns where exposure has occurred. METHODS We conducted focus groups to generate free-flowing open discussion on PFAS in three affected communities, including some with significant numbers of First Nations Peoples. We recruited participants using a range of media outlets and postal services. Focus group transcripts were analysed thematically to identify major shared concerns using Atlas Ti. RESULTS One hundred and eighty residents attended fifteen focus groups that were conducted in the three communities. They included 69 First Nations People living in three communities near the town of Katherine in the Northern Territory. Study participants were concerned about potential physical health effects of exposure to PFAS, such as cancer clusters, unexplained deaths, potential exacerbation of existing health conditions, and the future health of their children. They expressed feelings of stress and anxiety about living with uncertainty related to the possible health and the socio-economic impacts of PFAS contamination in their communities. CONCLUSION While research has concentrated on the physical health effects of PFAS, more attention needs to be given to the immediate psychosocial impacts of living in an affected community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cathy Banwell
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Research School of Population Health, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - Tambri Housen
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Research School of Population Health, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Kayla Smurthwaite
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Research School of Population Health, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Susan Trevenar
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Research School of Population Health, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Liz Walker
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Research School of Population Health, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Katherine Todd
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Research School of Population Health, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - May Rosas
- Ngaigu-Mulu Aboriginal Corporation, Katherine, NT, Australia
| | - Martyn Kirk
- National Centre for Epidemiology and Population Health, Research School of Population Health, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
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7
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Calloway EE, Chiappone AL, Schmitt HJ, Sullivan D, Gerhardstein B, Tucker PG, Rayman J, Yaroch AL. Exploring Community Psychosocial Stress Related to Per- and Poly-Fluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) Contamination: Lessons Learned from a Qualitative Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:E8706. [PMID: 33255157 PMCID: PMC7727701 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17238706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Revised: 11/14/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to qualitatively explore the per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) exposure experience and associated stressors, to inform public health efforts to support psychosocial health and resilience in affected communities. Semi-structured interviews (n = 9) were conducted from July-September 2019 with community members and state public health department representatives from areas with PFAS-contaminated drinking water. Thematic analysis was completed and themes were described and summarized. Reported stressors included health concerns and uncertainty, institutional delegitimization and associated distrust, and financial burdens. Interviewees provided several strategies to reduce stress and promote stress coping capacity and resilience, including showing empathy and validating the normalcy of experiencing stress; building trust through visible action and sustained community engagement; providing information and actionable guidance; discussing stress carefully; fostering stress coping capacity and resilience with opportunities to build social capital and restore agency; and building capacity among government agencies and health care providers to address psychosocial stress. While communities affected by PFAS contamination will face unavoidable stressors, positive interactions with government responders and health care providers may help reduce negative stress. More research on how best to integrate community psychosocial health and stress coping and resilience concepts into the public health response to environmental contamination could be helpful in addressing these stressors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric E. Calloway
- Gretchen Swanson Center for Nutrition, Omaha, NE 68114, USA; (A.L.C.); (A.L.Y.)
| | - Alethea L. Chiappone
- Gretchen Swanson Center for Nutrition, Omaha, NE 68114, USA; (A.L.C.); (A.L.Y.)
- College of Public Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
| | - Harrison J. Schmitt
- Department of Psychology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA; (H.J.S.); (D.S.)
| | - Daniel Sullivan
- Department of Psychology, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA; (H.J.S.); (D.S.)
| | - Ben Gerhardstein
- Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA; (B.G.); (P.G.T.); (J.R.)
| | - Pamela G. Tucker
- Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA; (B.G.); (P.G.T.); (J.R.)
| | - Jamie Rayman
- Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA; (B.G.); (P.G.T.); (J.R.)
| | - Amy L. Yaroch
- Gretchen Swanson Center for Nutrition, Omaha, NE 68114, USA; (A.L.C.); (A.L.Y.)
- College of Public Health, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE 68198, USA
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Zhang H, Shen Y, Liu W, He Z, Fu J, Cai Z, Jiang G. A review of sources, environmental occurrences and human exposure risks of hexachlorobutadiene and its association with some other chlorinated organics. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2019; 253:831-840. [PMID: 31344544 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2019.07.090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2019] [Revised: 07/17/2019] [Accepted: 07/17/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Research on hexachlorobutadiene (HCBD) has increased since its listing in the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants in 2011. However, thorough reports on recent data regarding this topic are lacking. Moreover, potential associations between HCBD and some chlorinated organics have usually been ignored in previous research. In this review, possible formation pathways and sources, current environmental occurrences and human exposure risks of HCBD are discussed, as well as the association with several organochlorine compounds. The results reveal that unintentional production and emission from industrial activities and waste treatments are the main sources of HCBD. Similar precursors are found for HCBD and chlorobenzenes, indicating the presence of common sources. Although recent data indicates that levels of HCBD in the environment are generally low, risks from human exposure to HCBD, together with other pollutants, may be high. More attention in the future needs to be paid to the mixed contamination of HCBD and other pollutants from common sources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiyan Zhang
- College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China; State Key Laboratory of Environmental and Biological Analysis, Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yanting Shen
- College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Wencong Liu
- College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Zhiqiao He
- College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Jianjie Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
| | - Zongwei Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental and Biological Analysis, Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Guibin Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
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Zhang X, Yang M, Sun X, Wang X, Wang Y. The experimental observation, mechanism and kinetic studies on the reaction of hexachloro-1,3-butadiene initiated by typical atmospheric oxidants. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2018; 627:256-263. [PMID: 29426148 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.01.163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2017] [Revised: 01/11/2018] [Accepted: 01/17/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Hexachloro-1,3-butadiene (HCBD) is a persistent organic pollutant in the environment. When its samples were collected and observed, the levels of HCBD in its source and high mountains are higher than in urban cities, oil factories and countryside. The density functional theory is applied to the degradation mechanism of HCBD with Cl, NO3, HO2, OH and O3. Those reactions are optimized and calculated at two carbon sites of double bonds, and then the subsequent reactions of the OH-initiated intermediates with O2 and NO are taken as examples. Ozonization reactions of HCBD including the formation of primary and secondary ozonides are investigated. The Criegee intermediates created in the ozonization reactions can react with O2, SO2, NO2 and H2O. Reaction rate constants of the Cl, NO3, HO2, OH and O3 initiated reactions with HCBD are calculated within 200 to 400 K with the transition state theory method, and the rate constants of the Cl, NO3, HO2, OH and O3 at 298.15 K are 4.51 × 10-13, 1.32 × 10-20, 4.33 × 10-29, 6.33 × 10-16, 5.80 × 10-27 cm3 molecule-1 s-1, respectively. The reactions of OH and Cl radicals with HCBD are more important than those of NO3, HO2 and O3 according to the reaction rate branching ratio. Both the temperature and reaction rate could change with the height.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianghe Zhang
- Environment Research Institute, Shandong University, Jinan 250100, PR China
| | - Minmin Yang
- School of Environment Science and Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan 250100, PR China
| | - Xiaomin Sun
- Environment Research Institute, Shandong University, Jinan 250100, PR China.
| | - Xiaolei Wang
- Shandong Normal University, Jinan 250014, PR China
| | - Yan Wang
- School of Environment Science and Engineering, Shandong University, Jinan 250100, PR China.
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10
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Environment and Human Health: The Challenge of Uncertainty in Risk Assessment. GEOSCIENCES 2018. [DOI: 10.3390/geosciences8010024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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11
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Novello S, Pinto C, Torri V, Porcu L, Di Maio M, Tiseo M, Ceresoli G, Magnani C, Silvestri S, Veltri A, Papotti M, Rossi G, Ricardi U, Trodella L, Rea F, Facciolo F, Granieri A, Zagonel V, Scagliotti G. The Third Italian Consensus Conference for Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma: State of the art and recommendations. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2016; 104:9-20. [PMID: 27286698 DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2016.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2015] [Revised: 03/17/2016] [Accepted: 05/10/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma (MPM) remains a relevant public health issue, and asbestos exposure is the most relevant risk factor. The incidence has considerably and constantly increased over the past two decades in the industrialized countries and is expected to peak in 2020-2025. In Italy, a standardized-rate incidence in 2011 among men was 3.5 and 1.25 per 100,000 in men and women, respectively, and wide differences are noted among different geographic areas. The disease remains challenging in terms of diagnosis, staging and treatment and an optimal strategy has not yet been clearly defined. The Third Italian Multidisciplinary Consensus Conference on Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma was held in Bari (Italy) in January 30-31, 2015. This Consensus has provided updated recommendations on the MPM management for health institutions, clinicians and patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Novello
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, Italy.
| | - C Pinto
- Medical Oncology Unit, IRCCS-Arciospedale Santa Maria Nuova, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - V Torri
- Department of Oncology, IRCCS-Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri, Milan, Italy
| | - L Porcu
- Department of Oncology, IRCCS-Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri, Milan, Italy
| | - M Di Maio
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, Italy
| | - M Tiseo
- Division of Medical Oncology, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria di Parma, Italy
| | - G Ceresoli
- Thoracic Oncology Unit, Humanitas Gavazzeni, Bergamo, Italy
| | - C Magnani
- Cancer Epidemiology, University of Eastern Piedmont and CPO-Piemonte, Novara, Italy
| | - S Silvestri
- Istituto per lo Studio e la Prevenzione Oncologica, Florence, Italy
| | - A Veltri
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, Italy
| | - M Papotti
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, Italy
| | - G Rossi
- Ospedale Policlinico, Division of Human Pathology, Modena, Italy
| | - U Ricardi
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, Italy
| | - L Trodella
- Department of Radiotherapy, Campus Bio-Medico University, Rome, Italy
| | - F Rea
- Azienda Ospedaliera, Division of Thoracic Surgery, Padua, Italy
| | - F Facciolo
- Regina Elena Cancer Institute, Division of Thoracic Surgery, Rome, Italy
| | - A Granieri
- University of Torino, Department of Psychology, Italy
| | - V Zagonel
- Veneto Oncology Institute, IRCCS Padova, Italy
| | - G Scagliotti
- Department of Oncology, University of Turin, Italy
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Lysychenko G, Weber R, Kovach V, Gertsiuk M, Watson A, Krasnova I. Threats to water resources from hexachlorobenzene waste at Kalush City (Ukraine)--a review of the risks and the remediation options. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 22:14391-14404. [PMID: 26286800 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-015-5184-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2014] [Accepted: 08/10/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
The production of chlorinated solvents such as tetrachloroethylene and tetrachloromethane has resulted in large stockpiles of unintentionally produced persistent organic pollutants (POPs) including high content of hexachlorobenzene (HCB waste). HCB waste of 15,000 t arising from the production of chlorinated solvents at the Kalush factory in Ukraine was landfilled. In 2008, it was discovered that HCB and other pollutants were escaping from the landfill into local environment including the Sapogi-Limnytsia Rivers, tributaries of the Dniester River. This showed that the HCB waste was not appropriately contained and represented a threat to the Dniester River basin. A Presidential Decree of Ukraine was therefore issued requiring remediation of the site and excavation of the waste. Between 2010 and 2013, approximately 29,445 t of HCB waste and associated contaminated soil was excavated and exported to various EU countries for incineration. This excavation revealed that these wastes can corrode through their drums within a few decades with release of pollutants. Other sites at which chlorinated solvents were produced should therefore be assessed for possible similar pollution. Despite the remediation efforts and the excavation of the landfill, the Kalush area remains a POP-contaminated site requiring further assessment. A part of the waste was exported to Poland and is stored close to the Baltic Sea and is treated in an incinerator with small capacity over a time frame of years. This case and recent similar cases reveal that the control of POP waste for destruction even in EU countries needs to be improved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georgii Lysychenko
- State Institution Institute of Environmental Geochemistry of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv 142, 03680, Ukraine.
| | - Roland Weber
- POPs Environmental Consulting, 73527, Schwäbisch Gmünd, Germany.
| | - Valeria Kovach
- State Institution Institute of Environmental Geochemistry of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv 142, 03680, Ukraine
| | - Modest Gertsiuk
- State Institution Institute of Environmental Geochemistry of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv 142, 03680, Ukraine
| | - Alan Watson
- Public Interest Consultants, Eaton Crescent, Uplands, Swansea, Wales, SA1 4QR, UK
| | - Iryna Krasnova
- State Institution Institute of Environmental Geochemistry of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv 142, 03680, Ukraine
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Walker C, Baxter J, Ouellette D. Adding insult to injury: The development of psychosocial stress in Ontario wind turbine communities. Soc Sci Med 2015; 133:358-65. [DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2014.07.067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2014] [Revised: 06/26/2014] [Accepted: 07/30/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Peña-Fernández A, Wyke S, Brooke N, Duarte-Davidson R. Factors influencing recovery and restoration following a chemical incident. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2014; 72:98-108. [PMID: 24874002 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2014.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2013] [Revised: 05/01/2014] [Accepted: 05/06/2014] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Chemicals are an important part of our society. A wide range of chemicals are discharged into the environment every day from residential, commercial and industrial sources. Many of these discharges do not pose a threat to public health or the environment. However, global events have shown that chemical incidents or accidents can have severe consequences on human health, the environment and society. It is important that appropriate tools and technical guidance are available to ensure that a robust and efficient approach to developing a remediation strategy is adopted. The purpose of remediation is to protect human health from future exposure and to return the affected area back to normal as soon as possible. There are a range of recovery options (techniques or methods for remediation) that are applicable to a broad range of chemicals and incidents. Recovery options should be evaluated according to their appropriateness and efficacy for removing contaminants from the environment; however economic drivers and social and political considerations often influence decision makers on which remedial actions are implemented during the recovery phase of a chemical incident. To date, there is limited information in the literature on remediation strategies and recovery options that have been implemented following a chemical incident, or how successful they have been. Additional factors that can affect the approach taken for recovery are not well assessed or understood by decision makers involved in the remediation and restoration of the environment following a chemical incident. The identification of this gap has led to the development of the UK Recovery Handbook for Chemical Incidents to provide a framework for choosing an effective recovery strategy. A compendium of practical evidence-based recovery options (techniques or methods for remediation) for inhabited areas, food production systems and water environments has also been developed and is included in the chemical handbook. This paper presents the key factors that should be considered when developing a recovery strategy with respect to how these may impact on its effectiveness. The paper also highlights the importance of these factors through an evaluation of recovery strategies implemented following real chemical incidents that have been reported in the literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Peña-Fernández
- Centre for Radiation, Chemical and Environmental Hazards, Public Health England, UK.
| | - S Wyke
- Centre for Radiation, Chemical and Environmental Hazards, Public Health England, UK
| | - N Brooke
- Centre for Radiation, Chemical and Environmental Hazards, Public Health England, UK
| | - R Duarte-Davidson
- Centre for Radiation, Chemical and Environmental Hazards, Public Health England, UK
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Burger J, Gochfeld M. Concerns and perceptions immediately following Superstorm Sandy: ratings for property damage were higher than for health issues. JOURNAL OF RISK RESEARCH 2014; 18:249-265. [PMID: 27011757 PMCID: PMC4800755 DOI: 10.1080/13669877.2014.896401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Governmental officials, health and safety professionals, early responders, and the public are interested in the perceptions and concerns of people faced with a crisis, especially during and immediately after a disaster strikes. Reliable information can lead to increased individual and community preparedness for upcoming crises. The objective of this research was to evaluate concerns of coastal and central New Jersey residents within the first 100 days of Superstorm Sandy's landfall. Respondents living in central New Jersey and Jersey shore communities were differentially impacted by the storm, with shore residents having higher evacuation rates (47% vs. 13%), more flood waters in their homes, longer power outages (average 23 vs. 6 days), and longer periods without Internet (29 vs. 6 days). Ratings of concerns varied both among and within categories as a function of location (central vs. coastal New Jersey), stressor level (ranging from 1 to 3 for combinations of power outages, high winds, and flooding), and demographics. Respondents were most concerned about property damage, health, inconveniences, ecological services, and nuclear power plants in that order. Respondents from the shore gave higher ratings to the concerns within each major category, compared to those from central Jersey. Four findings have implications for understanding future risk, recovery, and resiliency: (1) respondents with the highest stressor level (level 3) were more concerned about water damage than others, (2) respondents with flood damage were more concerned about water drainage and mold than others, (3) respondents with the highest stressor levels rated all ecological services higher than others, and (4) shore respondents rated all ecological services higher than central Jersey residents. These data provide information to design future preparedness plans, improve resiliency for future severe weather events, and reduce public health risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Burger
- Division of Life Sciences, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
- Consortium for Risk Evaluation with Stakeholder Participation, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Michael Gochfeld
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
- Consortium for Risk Evaluation with Stakeholder Participation, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
- Environmental and Occupational Medicine, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Piscataway, NJ, USA
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Burger J, Gochfeld M. Health concerns and perceptions of central and coastal New Jersey residents in the 100 days following Superstorm Sandy. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2014; 481:611-8. [PMID: 24631998 PMCID: PMC4467548 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2014.02.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2013] [Revised: 02/12/2014] [Accepted: 02/13/2014] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Superstorm Sandy made landfall in New Jersey 29-30 October 2012 (130 km/h winds), and many residents were evacuated, were without power for days to several weeks, and suffered property damages or lost their homes. The objective of this study was to understand health concerns within 100 days of this devastating storm that might improve recovery, future preparedness, and resilience. We conducted a survey of New Jersey residents in central (N=407) and shore communities (n=347) about health concerns before, during, and after Superstorm Sandy. People were interviewed at public places, town hall and FEMA meetings, health and university centers, and other gathering places. 47% of shore and 13% of central Jersey respondents evacuated. Both populations were concerned about agents of destruction, survival needs, and possessions before and during the storm, but they were mainly concerned about survival needs thereafter. During the storm, medical issues were the greatest concern for shore respondents (23%) vs secure and safe food and water (29%) for central respondents. Medical concerns increased after the storm. In the future, 42% of shore respondents would prepare more, while 51% of central residents would buy more supplies; 20% (shore) and 11% (central) would heed future evacuation warnings. Before Sandy many residents did not heed warnings and evacuation orders, but worried about property damage, while during and after their major concerns were personal and community health. Prevention of future health and property impacts could be enhanced by stronger evacuation enforcement, better preparedness information, greater attention to the possibility of prolonged power outages, and more attention to medical needs during and after a storm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Burger
- Division of Life Sciences, Rutgers University, 604 Allison Road, Piscataway, NJ, USA; Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA; Institute of Marine and Coastal Science, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA.
| | - Michael Gochfeld
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA; Institute of Marine and Coastal Science, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA; Environmental and Occupational Medicine, Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Piscataway, NJ, USA
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Scammell MK. Qualitative environmental health research: an analysis of the literature, 1991-2008. CIENCIA & SAUDE COLETIVA 2012; 16:4239-55. [PMID: 22031153 DOI: 10.1590/s1413-81232011001100030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Qualitative research uses nonnumeric data to understand people's opinions, motives, understanding, and beliefs about events or phenomena. In this analysis, I report the use of qualitative methods and data in the study of the relationship between environmental exposures and human health. A primary search for peer-reviewed journal articles dated from 1991 through 2008 included the following three terms: qualitative, environ*, and health. Searches resulted in 3,155 records. Data were extracted and findings of articles analyzed to determine where and by whom qualitative environmental health research is conducted and published, the types of methods and analyses used in qualitative studies of environmental health, and the types of information qualitative data contribute to environmental health. The results highlight a diversity of disciplines and techniques among researchers who used qualitative methods to study environmental health. Nearly all of the studies identified increased scientific understanding of lay perceptions of environmental health exposures. This analysis demonstrates the potential of qualitative data to improve understanding of complex exposure pathways, including the influence of social factors on environmental health, and health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madeleine Kangsen Scammell
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, Boston, MA, USA.
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Hawthorne TL, Kwan MP. Using GIS and perceived distance to understand the unequal geographies of healthcare in lower-income urban neighbourhoods. THE GEOGRAPHICAL JOURNAL 2012; 178:18-30. [PMID: 22400154 DOI: 10.1111/j.1475-4959.2011.00411.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
Geographers play important roles in public health research, particularly in understanding healthcare accessibility, utilisation, and individual healthcare experiences. Most accessibility studies have benefited from the increased sophistication of geographic information systems (GIS). Some studies have been enhanced with semi-structured in-depth interviews to understand individual experiences of people as they access healthcare. However, few accessibility studies have explicitly utilised individual in-depth interview data in the construction of new GIS accessibility measures. Using mixed methods including GIS analysis and individual data from semi-structured in-depth interviews, we offer satisfaction-adjusted distance as a new way of conceptualising accessibility in GIS. Based on fieldwork in a predominantly lower-income community in Columbus, Ohio (USA), we find many residents felt neighbourhood healthcare facilities offered low-quality care, which suggested an added perceived distance as they attempt to access high-quality healthcare facilities. The satisfaction-adjusted distance measure accounts for the perceived distance some residents feel as they search for high-quality healthcare in lower-income urban neighbourhoods. In moving beyond conventional GIS and re-conceptualising accessibility in this way, we offer a more realistic portrayal of the issues lower-income urban residents face as they attempt to access high-quality healthcare facilities. The work has theoretical implications for conceptualising healthcare accessibility, advances the mixed-methodologies literature, and argues for a more equitable distribution of high-quality healthcare in urban neighbourhoods.
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Trumbo C, Lueck M, Marlatt H, Peek L. The effect of proximity to hurricanes Katrina and Rita on subsequent hurricane outlook and optimistic bias. RISK ANALYSIS : AN OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE SOCIETY FOR RISK ANALYSIS 2011; 31:1907-1918. [PMID: 21605150 DOI: 10.1111/j.1539-6924.2011.01633.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
This study evaluated how individuals living on the Gulf Coast perceived hurricane risk after Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. It was hypothesized that hurricane outlook and optimistic bias for hurricane risk would be associated positively with distance from the Katrina-Rita landfall (more optimism at greater distance), controlling for historically based hurricane risk and county population density, demographics, individual hurricane experience, and dispositional optimism. Data were collected in January 2006 through a mail survey sent to 1,375 households in 41 counties on the coast (n = 824, 60% response). The analysis used hierarchal regression to test hypotheses. Hurricane history and population density had no effect on outlook; individuals who were male, older, and with higher household incomes were associated with lower risk perception; individual hurricane experience and personal impacts from Katrina and Rita predicted greater risk perception; greater dispositional optimism predicted more optimistic outlook; distance had a small effect but predicted less optimistic outlook at greater distance (model R(2) = 0.21). The model for optimistic bias had fewer effects: age and community tenure were significant; dispositional optimism had a positive effect on optimistic bias; distance variables were not significant (model R(2) = 0.05). The study shows that an existing measure of hurricane outlook has utility, hurricane outlook appears to be a unique concept from hurricane optimistic bias, and proximity has at most small effects. Future extension of this research will include improved conceptualization and measurement of hurricane risk perception and will bring to focus several concepts involving risk communication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Craig Trumbo
- Department of Journalism and Technical Communication,Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523-1785, USA.
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20
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Triple Threat Trauma: Evidence-Based Mental Health Response for the 2011 Japan Disaster. Prehosp Disaster Med 2011; 26:141-5. [DOI: 10.1017/s1049023x11006364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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21
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Scammell MK. Qualitative environmental health research: an analysis of the literature, 1991-2008. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PERSPECTIVES 2010; 118:1146-54. [PMID: 20421191 PMCID: PMC2920087 DOI: 10.1289/ehp.0901762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2009] [Accepted: 04/26/2010] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent articles have advocated for the use of qualitative methods in environmental health research. Qualitative research uses nonnumeric data to understand people's opinions, motives, understanding, and beliefs about events or phenomena. OBJECTIVE In this analysis of the literature, I report the use of qualitative methods and data in the study of the relationship between environmental exposures and human health. DATA SOURCES A primary search on ISI Web of Knowledge/Web of Science for peer-reviewed journal articles dated from 1991 through 2008 included the following three terms: qualitative, environ*, and health. Inclusion and exclusion criteria are described. DATA EXTRACTION Searches resulted in 3,155 records. Data were extracted and findings of articles analyzed to determine where and by whom qualitative environmental health research is conducted and published, the types of methods and analyses used in qualitative studies of environmental health, and the types of information qualitative data contribute to environmental health. DATA SYNTHESIS Ninety-one articles met inclusion criteria. These articles were published in 58 different journals, with a maximum of eight for a single journal. The results highlight a diversity of disciplines and techniques among researchers who used qualitative methods to study environmental health, with most studies relying on one-on-one interviews. Details of the analyses were absent from a large number of studies. Nearly all of the studies identified increased scientific understanding of lay perceptions of environmental health exposures. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS Qualitative data are published in traditionally quantitative environmental health studies to a limited extent. However, this analysis demonstrates the potential of qualitative data to improve understanding of complex exposure pathways, including the influence of social factors on environmental health, and health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madeleine Kangsen Scammell
- Department of Environmental Health, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
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22
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Dabrowska E, Wismer SK. Inclusivity matters: Perceptions of children's health and environmental risk including Old Order Mennonites from Ontario, Canada. HEALTH, RISK & SOCIETY 2010. [DOI: 10.1080/13698571003632445] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Dabrowska
- a Department of Earth & Atmospheric Sciences , University of Alberta , Edmonton , Canada
| | - Susan K. Wismer
- b Department of Environment and Resource Studies , University of Waterloo , Waterloo , Canada
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Stewart AG, Luria P, Reid J, Lyons M, Jarvis R. Real or illusory? Case studies on the public perception of environmental health risks in the north west of England. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2010; 7:1153-73. [PMID: 20617024 PMCID: PMC2872300 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph7031153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2009] [Accepted: 03/16/2010] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Applied research in a public health setting seeks to provide professionals with insights and knowledge into complex environmental issues to guide actions that reduce inequalities and improve health. We describe ten environmental case studies that explore the public perception of health risk. We employed logical analysis of components of each case study and comparative information to generate new evidence. The findings highlight how concerns about environmental issues measurably affect people's wellbeing and led to the development of new understanding about the benefits of taking an earlier and more inclusive approach to risk communication that can now be tested further.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex G Stewart
- Cheshire & Merseyside Health Protection Unit, Moorgate Point, Moorgate Road, Knowsley Industrial Park, Kirby, Merseyside, UK.
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24
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Vandermoere F. Psychosocial health of residents exposed to soil pollution in a Flemish neighbourhood. Soc Sci Med 2008; 66:1646-57. [PMID: 18237836 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2007.12.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2006] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study is to examine several major covariates of mental health among residents living on polluted soil. In the Kouterwijk community, Belgium, which is contaminated by heavy metals and polyaromatic hydrocarbons, 109 residents were compared with a quasi-control group (n=161). The mental health of the exposed residents was much worse than in the matched group. To examine the residents' mental health in detail, site-specific variables were added in a binary logistic regression. The probability of distress did not covary with independently assessed or perceived danger of the contaminants, but with residents' sense of participation in consultation over the contamination problem, and with interaction of the latter with a perceived need for decontamination. This suggests that a disbelief in the necessity of risk mitigation, along with a perceived lack of participation, can be more stressful than actual and perceived contamination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frédéric Vandermoere
- Department of Sociology, Ghent University, Korte Meer 5, Gent, Oost Vlaanderen, Belgium.
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25
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Page LA, Petrie KJ, Wessely SC. Psychosocial responses to environmental incidents: a review and a proposed typology. J Psychosom Res 2006; 60:413-22. [PMID: 16581367 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2005.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/10/2005] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this review was to propose a typology for understanding the diversity of psychosocial reactions to environmental incidents. METHODOLOGY The first section provides an introduction and background to the topic; we then attempt to provide a typology of psychosocial responses to environmental incidents. RESULTS Response to an environmental incident can be usefully considered in terms of the exposure, the response of the individual, the action of professionals, the response of the community, and the influence of the society in which the incident occurs. We reviewed each of these factors. CONCLUSIONS By examining incidents in an ordered framework, we suggest that a more comprehensive understanding is possible. We also suggest some basic ways in which the psychosocial management of such difficult and diverse incidents could be improved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa A Page
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, King's College, London, UK
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Greve KW, Bianchini KJ, Doane BM, Love JM, Stickle TR. Psychological evaluation of the emotional effects of a community toxic exposure. J Occup Environ Med 2005; 47:51-9. [PMID: 15643159 DOI: 10.1097/01.jom.0000150386.33867.f9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We sought to assess the emotional effects of a major community toxic release while controlling the potential effects of response bias associated with litigation. METHODS Participants included 152 exposed adult litigants and a matched unexposed comparison group (n = 76). Psychological assessment methods included: (1) Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-2; (2) Symptom Checklist-90-Revised; and (3) Impact of Event Scale-Revised. RESULTS Ten to 40% of the exposed group demonstrated emotional distress (compared with a 5% comparison baseline) depending on indicator and cutoff score used. CONCLUSIONS The psychological consequences of a community toxic exposure were present even when exaggeration was carefully controlled. Accounting for exaggeration in the assessment of subjective psychological complaints provides a more accurate view of the subjective emotional state of persons who have experienced toxic exposure thereby facilitating appropriate clinical management of their mental health needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin W Greve
- Department of Psychology, University of New Orleans, New Orleans, Louisiana 70148, USA.
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Olowokure B, Wardle SA, Beaumont M, Duggal HV, Colling G. An enquiry into the respiratory health effects on a rural community of a soil mound erected close to residential property. Public Health 2005; 119:217-22. [PMID: 15661133 DOI: 10.1016/j.puhe.2004.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2003] [Revised: 07/27/2004] [Accepted: 08/16/2004] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The health concerns of a rural community were investigated following the erection of a soil mound in close proximity to residential property. Retrospective comparisons were made of respiratory and non-respiratory consultations with general practitioners between the exposed population and a sociodemographically similar comparison population. A 2-year period was examined, 1 year before and 1 year after the mound was erected. In the 1-year period prior to erection of the mound, similar consultation rates for both respiratory and non-respiratory conditions were observed in both populations. In the 1-year period following erection of the mound, the exposed population was more likely to consult for respiratory conditions than the comparison population (OR=4.10, 95% CI 2.26-7.44). No differences were observed for non-respiratory conditions. We identified a significant increase in respiratory consultations in the exposed population following erection of the soil mound. Limitations associated with this type of study should be considered when interpreting the results.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Olowokure
- Department of Public Health and Health Policy, South Staffordshire Health Authority, Stafford, South Staffordshire, UK.
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