Moderator: Henry Slack US EPA Region 4 Indoor Air Program
Indoor air is one of the greatest environmental public health risks, according to studies by EPA and other organizations. It is also one of the most poorly understood, because of the variety of pollutants, and the diagnostic challenges they represent to health care workers for health problems external to the patient.
This session will look at some of the more serious indoor air pollutants. Radon causes 15-20,000 fatalities a year, according to the best available data. Levels may vary tremendously in karst geology, which is characterized by caves, sinkholes, and multiple underground air channels. Flooding or other moisture problems may cause mold in homes; the response by public health professionals is of particular importance. Asthma is a major problem, especially among children in urban settings. Environmental Tobacco Smoke (‘ETS‘, or secondhand smoke or passive smoke) affects millions of children, and sends thousands to hospitals each year. This session will attempt to look at the totality of indoor air risks, and also attempt to answer questions regarding solutions to indoor air problems.
Learning Objectives: 1. Learn more about indoor air problems. 2. Learn why EPA selected secondhand smoke, radon, and other specific problems upon which to focus
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: U.S Environmental Protection Agency
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: Employer