Summary of "From the Perspective of Our Communities: In Their Own Words"
ATSDR’s Partnership with Communities to Address Environmental Health Hazards
The video highlights the work of the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) in partnering with communities across the United States to identify and address environmental health hazards caused by exposure to chemicals and other toxic agents. ATSDR focuses on:
- Understanding community exposures
- Assessing associated health risks
- Recommending actions to minimize those risks
The agency collaborates closely with local governments, health departments, and community members to communicate complex environmental health information in accessible ways.
Community Experiences with ATSDR
Several community representatives share their experiences working with ATSDR:
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Rebecca Jim Executive Director of Local Environmental Action Demanded (LEAD Agency) and member of the Cherokee Nation, Rebecca explains how ATSDR’s involvement helped reveal widespread lead poisoning among children in her community. This collaboration prompted cleanup efforts, leading to improved health outcomes for children who can now focus better and have brighter futures.
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John Mellow A resident of Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania, John describes concerns about health effects from one of the state’s largest landfills. ATSDR’s recommendations led to more comprehensive data collection and regulatory actions, improving community health protections.
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Saul Juarez Aguilar Manager of community outreach at Opera Healthcare, Saul recounts how ATSDR worked with local health services to address toxic leakage from an old foundry affecting Spanish-speaking residents. By translating and simplifying technical information, ATSDR empowered the community to take necessary health precautions, potentially preventing long-term health issues.
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Stephanie Holm Environmental pediatrician and co-director of the Western States Pediatric Environmental Health Specialty Unit (PESU), Stephanie emphasizes the importance of early intervention in children’s environmental health. Through partnerships with ATSDR, PESUs help fill knowledge gaps for health professionals and families, aiming to improve children’s quality of life from preconception through childhood and beyond.
ATSDR’s Vision
Overall, ATSDR’s vision is to be a trusted partner for communities by providing clear, accessible information and support to help them understand and mitigate environmental health risks.
Presenters and Contributors
- Rebecca Jim, Executive Director, LEAD Agency
- John Mellow, Resident, Lackawanna County, PA
- Saul Juarez Aguilar, Manager, Community Outreach, Opera Healthcare
- Stephanie Holm, Environmental Pediatrician, Co-Director, Western States PESU
Category
News and Commentary
