Resources for Health Care Professionals on Health Effects of Environmental Exposures

The Pennsylvania Department of Health released Health Advisory-782 concerning the health effects of environmental exposures, which can cause a variety of health effects depending on exposure type, source, duration, and individual sensitivity. Exposure routes for environmental contaminants can include contact, inhalation, ingestion, radiation, and transplacental. Certain groups – such as older adults, children, people of color, immigrants, pregnant women, people with disabilities, and people living below the poverty line – are more likely to experience negative health impacts due to environmental exposures. The Pennsylvania Department of Health has compiled a list of training and resources from academic and governmental organizations that can help healthcare providers assess environmental exposures and respond to patient concerns. Individuals can contact the Division of Environmental Health Epidemiology with questions at DEHE@pa.gov or 717-787-3350. To document a formal health concern with the department use its online form. You can also access the PA Health Alert Network (PA-HAN).