Environmental Exposures

Question 1

What is environmental justice?

Answer 1

the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people regardless of race, color, national origin, or income, with respect to the development, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and policies.

Question 2

What is environmental injustice?

Answer 2

the disproportionate exposure of communities of color and the poor to pollution; as well as the unequal environmental protection and environmental quality provided through laws, regulations, governmental programs, enforcement, and policies

Question 3

What is the CDC threshold for lead?

Answer 3

No more than 5 ug/dl in drinking water

Question 4

Is there an acceptable amount of lead to consume?

Answer 4

NO –> any amount of lead is bad. CDC puts limit but really it should be 0.

Question 5

What is used in pipes to prevent corrosion?

What happens if these compounds are omitted or not present in water supply?

Answer 5

Organic phosphate compounds
Pipes degrade (corrode). In a lead pipe this will leach lead into the water supply. In an iron pipe this will leach iron into the water supply and also provide a place for legionella bacteria to thrive.

Question 6

What are some areas where environmental policy can impact a person’s health?

Answer 6

environmental regulations, practice regulations, zoning, transportation

Question 7

What is the role of the physician to intervene when they see environmental injustice occurring?

Answer 7

screening, monitoring, community surveillance, advocacy