Issue Areas

Health

Take Out Toxics

More than 80,000 chemicals permitted in the United States have never been fully assessed for toxic impacts on human health and the environment. Cancer, learning disabilities, infertility and birth defects have all been associated to some degree with exposure to toxic chemicals -- chemicals found in children's products, cleaning products, building materials, fabrics, toys, furniture, electronics, food and beverage containers and more. It’s time for Congress to pass legislation to protect our families from toxic chemicals. (Photo Credit: Katie Stoops) Read more »

Climate Change Threatens Health

Climate change is one of the most serious public health threats facing the nation, but few people are aware of how it can affect them. Children, the elderly, and communities living in poverty are the most vulnerable. Explore our interactive maps to see climate-health threats in your state, actions that are being taken to prepare communities from climate change's serious health threats, and what you can do about them. Read more »

Report

The Buzz on Bug Repellents

Mosquitoes are a nuisance, but in some areas they also transmit disease, such as West Nile virus and rarely other diseases here in the U.S. Ticks carry several diseases, the most common being Lyme disease. So protecting yourself against insect bites isn't just about comfort -- it can help keep you healthy. (Photo Credit: Dan Bergstrom) Read more »

Maps

Disease Clusters Spotlight the Need to Protect People from Toxic Chemicals

An unusually large number of people sickened by a disease in a certain place and time is known as a 'disease cluster'. Clusters of cancer, birth defects, and other chronic illnesses have sometimes been linked to chemicals or other toxic pollutants in local communities, although these links can be controversial. Read more »

Fact Sheet

Raising Resistance

Feeding Antibiotics to Healthy Food Animals Breeds Bacteria Dangerous to Human Health (Photo Credit: istockphoto.com/magnetcreative) Read more »

Overview

Mercury Contamination

Exposure to mercury, even in small amounts, is a great danger to humans and wildlife. Find out how you can reduce your exposure to mercury. Read more »

Health Explained

Toxic chemicals in our environment, such as mercury, lead, and certain manmade chemicals, have been linked to cancer, birth defects and brain impairments. Reducing or eliminating the load of these dangerous chemicals in the products we buy, the air we breathe, the food we eat and the water we drink can help reduce the toll of human disease and suffering.

Recent Documents

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