Clear water, blue skies, fresh air are all things that we believe are equal, but in reality it is not. The environmental factors that we live in, every day, are major determinants to our health. Depending on where we live, go to school, work, etc. is based upon our socioeconomic status and determines the type of environment that surrounds us.
Certain communities may be exposed to poorer environments and inequities than those of a wealthier socioeconomic status. Some examples of environmental justice issues are air and water pollution, homes that may be infected by lead or mold, poor public transportation and lack of access to healthy foods.
Every April, the American Public Health Association (APHA) takes the time to celebrate public health with an entire week. APHA highlights different themes that affect our communities at large. 2020’s themes are mental health, maternal and child health, violence prevention, education, healthy housing, economics, and environmental health. We must continue to have conversations that affect and determine our life expectancy.