The impact of the environment on physical and mental health

Abstract

This paper describes the potential health consequences of exposure to certain types of environments. In the first example the consequences of being exposed to what might be considered traditional environmental pollutants are considered, i.e., air pollution and pediatric lead poisoning. The other two examples are somewhat less traditional. Both farmers and health care workers are exposed to considerable hazards from their environments. They are frequently exposed to chemicals which have been linked with skin disorders, increased risk of cancer, considerable levels of stress and high rates of suicide. It is argued that attempts to inform the public about environmental issues and to change behaviour should address the proximal environmental health hazards as well as the commonly acknowledged global environmental issues.