7 Environmental Determinants of Health & Their Impact

1. Air quality

The air you breathe is foundational to your health. As one of the top environmental determinants of health, air pollution is a major concern globally for human health. A 12-year study mapped out more than 22 million deaths in the United States in association with air quality levels from 2000 to 2012. The researchers found each area that had an incremental increase of 20 parts per billion of air pollutants, even when levels were within U.S. air quality standards, was associated with nearly three more deaths per million people.²

Improving the air quality of your environment might seem like an insurmountable task. But there are small steps you can take – like with transportation. If you live in an urban area, then think of ways to reduce your carbon footprint, like taking public transit or relying on a carpool network to reduce the number of cars on the road. 

If you’re able, then try biking to work. Cycling contributes to a smaller carbon footprint and less pollution. And it’s good for your health, too. Swedish research shows that cycling at least one kilometer – six-tenths of a mile – to and from work is associated with lower obesity rates and cardiovascular risk factors, which are both leading causes of preventable death.³

You can read more about air pollution and the types of environmental heavy metal toxicity here.

2. Water quality

Because the human body is 60 percent water, it’s no surprise that access to clean water is one of the major environmental determinants of health. Nearly a quarter of the world’s population – that’s two billion people – lack access to clean water according to the World Health Organization.⁴ Sufficient access to clean water improves hygiene practices, which reduces the spread of preventable disease.

Although public tap water in the United States is considered safe, natural disasters or other adverse events can put water quality at risk, if only temporarily. During such times, you can conduct an at-home water quality test for peace of mind. A water filter system can remove particulate matter. If you have a private source of water, such as a well, then you should test your water annually.

3. Climate change and natural disasters

Climate change is a measurable fact, with its impact on average global temperatures and rising sea levels.⁵ Climate change has opened up a worldwide discussion on environmental health topics. Although the effects of climate change are wide-ranging, you can target some causes at home. Promote a reduction of greenhouse gases in your daily life and research ways to support an environmental cause or an eco-friendly group in your area. In the wake of disasters, donating to relief funds can help.

4. Noise pollution

Although pollution is generally thought of as toxins in our air and water, noise pollution is a – no pun intended – silent danger that can impact our quality of life. Ambient and acute noise pollution can impact your health-span in different ways. Acute noise, such as from a rock concert, a passing police siren, or construction machinery, can damage your hearing, and repeated prolonged exposure can lead to hearing loss. But high levels of ambient noise, such as the consistent drone from a highway or a noisy office environment, can disrupt task management during the day and sleep patterns at night.  

If you have trouble sleeping at night due to high levels of ambient noise – or maybe your partner is a snorer – then consider using ear plugs to block out unwanted noise. You may also want to consider sleep testing to identify your body’s hormonal fluctuations that regulate your sleep-wake cycle. If you are exposed to chronic acute noise, then use safety earmuffs to reduce your risk for hearing loss.

5. Food deserts

Although you know your diet affects your well-being, access to food is another of the major environmental determinants of health. The U.S. Department of Agriculture defines a food desert as an urban area more than one mile or a rural area more than 10 miles from a grocery store or supermarket.⁷ These food deserts are often in low-income neighborhoods. Not just location but affordability of the food can define a food desert: A bustling city center full of restaurants or gourmet food stores can be considered a food desert if it lacks a basic grocery store. Where you live can affect your shopping habits, because living farther away can mean less frequent trips to the store, meaning fewer nutrient-dense fresh fruits and vegetables and more shelf-stable processed foods that can be high in salt, sugar, and preservatives. Individuals with poor nutrition from lack of access to healthy food options are at greater risk for obesity and heart disease.

Do you live in a food desert? Maximize your shopping trip by planning your meals in advance and making a shopping list. Read nutrition labels to cut out unnecessary added sugars and high amounts of salt. Buy dried beans instead of canned. Look for vegetables that can be stored for longer, like squash, potatoes, and onions. If you have freezer space, then buy frozen vegetables or fresh meats that can be frozen at home. Dried spices go a long way to zhuzhing up your meals, but if you have a green thumb, then plant an indoor herb garden to ensure fresh and fragrant herbs year-round.

6. Sunlight exposure

Another major environmental impact on health we talk about on Take 5 Daily is sun exposure. When your skin is exposed to the sun, it starts to synthesize vitamin D. What does vitamin D do? This essential nutrient supports bone and muscle structure, immune function, cardiovascular health, hormone balancing, healthy skin, a good mood, and more. But depending on where you live – and how much outdoor time you get – you might be deficient in vitamin D. For example, people who live in northern latitudes receive less sun exposure, especially during wintertime. In addition, having a lifestyle that keeps you indoors most of the day – such as a windowless work environment or an indoor exercise routine – can keep you from getting enough vitamin D.

What can you do to ensure a proper level of vitamin D if your environment and lifestyle aren’t helping you get enough sun exposure? You can absorb some vitamin D from your diet, such as fish, fortified milk, and eggs. Unfortunately, according to the USDA, 92 percent of men and 97 percent of women get less than 400 IU of vitamin D from food and beverage sources.⁸

To ensure adequate vitamin D, a supplement can fill a dietary or sunshine gap. Not sure if you’re getting enough vitamin D from sun exposure, your diet, or supplements? Vitamin D levels can be tested for in your blood – consult with your healthcare practitioner for testing options. 

7. Pet exposure

A pet is a great way to introduce the outdoors to your indoors. In addition to providing companionship (and maybe a little stress from bad behaviours), cats and dogs have unique effects on your microbiome. Studies have shown that pet owners have a greater microbiome diversity (generally considered to be a good thing) than those without pets; these effects can be measured as early as infancy. But there are illnesses that can be passed from animals to humans, so if you have a pet in your home, then practice good basic hygiene by washing your hands regularly, and make sure to give Fido a bath regularly, too.

Your environment, your health

Now that you know a bit more about the many environmental determinants of health, you can take some basic steps to support your health, whatever your environment. So next time you think about your health, remember these environmental factors and that you have the power to effect change in your environment for better living.