Saving the environment is saving ourselves

Author: Luo Lili China Rehabilitation Research Center

Reviewer: Wang Fang, deputy director and nurse of China Rehabilitation Research Center

In our seemingly peaceful daily lives, environmental factors are affecting our health in an imperceptible way. Environment and health, this seemingly distant but closely related topic, has actually permeated every aspect of our daily lives. Today, let us learn about the impact of the environment on our health.

Air, we breathe more than just oxygen

The air contains not only oxygen, which we rely on for survival, but also nitrogen, argon, carbon dioxide, helium and other gases. The quality of air directly affects our health. According to the World Health Organization Air Quality Guidelines, long-term exposure to high concentrations of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) will increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, respiratory diseases and cancer. About 7 million people die each year from diseases caused by air pollution. In addition, high concentrations of ozone can also irritate the respiratory tract and increase the risk of asthma attacks.

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Personal protection measures:

We are not powerless in the face of air pollution. When air quality is poor, reducing outdoor activities, using air purifiers and wearing masks are effective personal protective measures. Studies have shown that high-quality masks can significantly reduce the amount of PM2.5 inhaled. As citizens, reducing driving, choosing public transportation or green travel methods are the contributions that each of us can make to improve air quality.

Water - the source of life and the basis of health

Water is the source of life, but water quality issues can become a health concern. Polluted water sources may contain heavy metals, bacteria and viruses, all of which pose a serious threat to human health. Studies have shown that long-term drinking of water containing heavy metals increases the risk of kidney disease and neurological diseases. In addition, certain chemical pollutants, such as polychlorinated biphenyls, have been proven to be related to cancer. Lead-contaminated water may cause intellectual development disorders in children. In 2008, children in a certain area of ​​China suffered from developmental delays and learning disabilities due to drinking water with excessive lead content. Therefore, ensuring the safety of drinking water is an issue that each of us should pay attention to.

Preventive measures : It is recommended to use household water filters, choose bottled water that has been strictly tested, and pay attention to water quality reports issued by local governments. The public should also actively participate in water quality protection actions, such as reducing the use of detergents containing phosphorus and supporting water source protection projects.

Noise and health: the ignored invisible killer

Noise pollution not only affects our daily lives, but can also have long-term effects on our mental health. Studies have shown that long-term exposure to high noise levels can lead to hearing loss, tinnitus, and even deafness in severe cases; it can increase psychological stress and lead to depression; it can affect sleep quality, leading to fatigue and inattention, and in the long run can also cause cardiovascular and digestive diseases.

In cities, traffic noise and construction noise are the most common sources of noise pollution, seriously affecting the quality of life of residents.

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Preventive measures : It is recommended to use earplugs in noisy environments, improve indoor sound insulation facilities, and arrange work and rest time reasonably to reduce the impact of noise on health.

Environmental imprints in the food chain

Food safety is not only related to the quality of food itself, but also closely related to environmental health. Pesticide residues and excessive use of food additives may have an impact on human health.

Studies have shown that long-term intake of pesticide residues may increase the risk of cancer and neurological diseases. Food additives such as artificial colors and preservatives may also affect children's development.

Precautions : It is recommended to choose organic foods and reputable brands, and pay attention to the ingredient and additive information on food labels.

Indoor environment - invisible health risks

The quality of the indoor environment is closely related to our health. Formaldehyde, mold and other indoor air pollutants can cause chronic respiratory diseases, cardiovascular diseases, immune system suppression and other health problems such as headaches, eye discomfort, allergies and even cancer.

Preventive measures : It is recommended to keep the room ventilated, use environmentally friendly decoration materials, clean the indoor environment regularly to avoid the growth of dust and mold. Avoid using cleaning products containing harmful substances. Regularly test the indoor air quality.

The relationship between biodiversity loss and health

The loss of biodiversity not only affects the balance of the ecosystem, but also indirectly affects human health. The reduction of biodiversity may lead to an increase in the spread of diseases, affecting food supply and drug development. For example, deforestation and wetland destruction not only reduce species diversity, but also increase the risk of transmission of diseases such as malaria and dengue fever.

1. The scientific significance of biodiversity conservation To protect biodiversity is to protect our own health. Ecosystems with rich biodiversity can provide more ecological services, such as air purification, water conservation and disease control. Scientific research shows that residents in areas with rich biodiversity are generally in better health.

2. Public participation in biodiversity conservation Everyone can contribute to the conservation of biodiversity. Reducing the use of single-use plastics, supporting sustainable agriculture and fisheries, and participating in local nature conservation projects are all actions we can take. Through these actions, we not only protect nature, but also protect our own health.

Climate Change: A New Challenge for Global Health

Extreme weather events brought on by climate change, such as heat waves, floods and droughts, are becoming a major challenge to global health. These events not only directly affect people's health, but also indirectly affect health by affecting the supply of food and water resources. For example, heat waves can lead to an increase in heart disease and respiratory diseases.

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1. Adaptation and mitigation of climate change To cope with climate change, we need to take both adaptation and mitigation measures. Adaptation measures include improving urban planning, increasing the energy efficiency of buildings, and enhancing the resilience of public health systems. Mitigation measures include reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting the use of renewable energy. According to the United Nations Environment Programme, reducing the use of fossil fuels and increasing forest cover are the most effective mitigation measures.

2. Personal Action and Social Responsibility Everyone can contribute to addressing climate change through their own actions. Energy conservation and emission reduction, choosing a low-carbon lifestyle, and supporting sustainable consumption are all things we can do. In addition, it is also the responsibility of each of us to participate in community climate change adaptation projects and support relevant policies and regulations.

The relationship between environment and health is inseparable. Each of our actions will affect this relationship. By understanding the impact of environmental factors on health, taking scientific protective measures, and participating in environmental protection actions, we can jointly protect our health and create a healthier and more sustainable future.