After reading the article “8
Horrifying Examples of Corporations Mistreating Black Communities with
Environmental Racism” by Nick Chiles, it is apparent that only African American
people in the society are affected by environmental injustice. Race is proved
to be one of the most significant factors among social determinants of health.
Based on numerous live examples, this represents a consistent national pattern.
The exposure to environmental
pollutants irrespective of its duration and dosages will tamper the organ
system (immune system, endocrine system, reproductive system are most commonly affected)
of humans by its irreversible toxic effects. The target populations in this
scenario are communities with low economic status and low literacy rates. Based
on our learnings in the classes and book reviews, it is evident that maternal
and pediatric age groups are most vulnerable to environmental and occupational
hazards resulting in high morbidity and mortality. Environmental justice calls
for universal protection from disposal of toxic and hazardous wastes and
poisons that threaten the fundamental right to clean air, land and water.
I believe that there should be
reinforcement of environmental laws and regulations. There should be equal opportunities for the
decision making process to have healthy environment. Environmental activists and policy makers
should rethink and redefine considering all these live examples.
Rather than taking necessary
actions at the later point of time (after the onset of the health issue), it’s
better to practice the interventions at early stage or primary stage of health
issue.
You are right to say we approaching these dangerous health conditions in a backward way. It's as if the country is divided between those who want to create equality among us and those that are determined to subjugate the unassuming, underserved population to continue profiting on the backs of people who have extremely limited choices. As a public health, and health care professional, this backwards thinking has gotten us knee deep in the current health crisis we are facing and it's costing the American public a lot of money to support this. Regulations are definitely needed both with environmental toxins as well as those that effect agriculture and food systems in this country. If we could tackle these issues together, we would save many people from the pitfalls of disease and raise the level of health quality for all of us.
ReplyDeleteI agree, maternal and pediatric age groups are certainly at risk for the negative health effects of toxic environmental pollutants. There should be decision making opportunities for populations affected. Communities that are exposed to such chemicals should have a say in policy making since they are primarily affected. There needs to be a collective decision-making process so that communities most affected can build self-efficacy for their health outcomes.
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