Environmental determinants of health are the physical, chemical, and biological factors in the environment that can affect human health, both positively and negatively. These factors include aspects of the natural environment, like air and water quality, and the built environment, such as housing and infrastructure. They can influence health outcomes directly through exposure to hazards or indirectly through impacts on behavior and social conditions. 

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Here's a more detailed breakdown:

1. Physical Factors:

Air quality:

Pollution from sources like vehicle exhaust, industrial emissions, and even indoor pollutants (like mold or radon) can cause respiratory problems, cardiovascular issues, and other health problems. 

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Water quality:

Contaminated drinking water can lead to waterborne illnesses and other health issues. Access to safe and clean water is crucial for health. 

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Climate change and extreme weather:

Changes in temperature, increased frequency of extreme weather events (like heat waves, droughts, floods), and rising sea levels can all negatively impact human health. 

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Noise pollution:

Excessive noise can cause stress, hearing loss, sleep disturbances, and cardiovascular problems. 

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2. Chemical Factors:

Exposure to toxic chemicals:

This can occur through various pathways, including contaminated soil and water, industrial accidents, and the use of certain products (e.g., lead-based paint, pesticides).

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Chemicals in consumer products:

Flame retardants, PFAS, and other chemicals used in everyday products can leach into the environment and potentially harm human health. 

 

 

3. Biological Factors:

Infectious diseases:

Environmental factors like poor sanitation, inadequate waste management, and climate change can contribute to the spread of infectious diseases. 

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Vector-borne diseases:

Changes in climate and land use can affect the habitats of disease-carrying insects and animals, leading to the spread of diseases like malaria and dengue fever. 

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4. Built Environment:

Housing and infrastructure:

The quality of housing (e.g., presence of mold, inadequate ventilation), access to green spaces, and the availability of walkable neighborhoods can affect health. 

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Food deserts:

Areas with limited access to affordable and nutritious food can contribute to poor diet and related health problems. 

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5. Social and Economic Factors:

Socioeconomic status:

Poverty and lack of resources can limit access to healthy environments, safe housing, and healthcare. 

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Environmental justice:

Disparities in the distribution of environmental hazards can disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, leading to health inequities. 

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6. Indirect Impacts:

Environmental factors can influence behavior (e.g., lack of safe outdoor spaces can reduce physical activity) and socioeconomic conditions (e.g., extreme weather events can displace communities and lead to economic instability).