Protection of Human Health Against Environmental Hazards

Environmental health consists of preventing or controlling disease, injury and disability related to the interactions between people and their environment. The interactions of humans with the environment affect quality of life and the longevity of life. Globally, nearly 25 percent of all deaths and the total disease burden can be attributed to environmental factors. Environmental health involves understanding the impacts of environmental and human-made hazards and protecting human health and ecological systems against these hazards. Environmental risk factors are such as air, water and soil pollution, chemical exposures, climate change and ultraviolet radiation. It is essential to prevent the environmental health risks in the surrounding environment. Hence, steps are to be taken in creating awareness about hazards and also to manage the risks. Efforts should be taken to reduce the exposure to toxic substances and hazardous wastes, which are fundamental to environmental health.