Recorded presentation

Wajdy Hailoo, MD, MSc, DIH, Division of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Stony Brook University, School of Medicie, HSC 3L099, Stony Brook, NY 11794-8036, 631-444-2196, whailoo@notes.cc.sunysb.edu

In the last two decades, Iraq has been the battlefield for three major wars where traditional and the most sophisticated and experimental weapons were used. Significant exposure to a variety of chemical agents and radioactive material has occurred especially in the southern and southern central regions of Iraq. A large number of manufacturing industries were built and operated without any consideration to the environment. The environmental adversity had been compounded by the total deterioration of the country's infrastructure secondary to twelve years of sanctions. These and other factors, such as the extensive burning of oil wells, the failing economy and total lack of resources have resulted in severe environmental contamination. Immediate health effects were reflected in a significantly increased morbidity and mortality from acute respiratory diseases, diarrheal disease and adverse reproductive outcomes. Recent scientific reports from Iraq indicate increased incidence of cancer rates, congenital abnormalities and physical and mental disabilities among children. Helping with training of Iraqi health personnel and providing resources is most urgent in order to identify and characterize appropriate response, as well as to prioritize and implement intervention programs.

Learning Objectives: By the end of the session, participants will be able to

• Describe the main environmental effects in Iraq of the recent wars and economic sanctions;
• Relate the environmental sitation with ensuing health problems; and
• Describe the Stony Brook University Environmental Health Program in Iraq and how it will address the country's environmental health needs

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.

Recorded presentation