Podcasts: Environmental Health Chat

Harmful Algal Blooms and Your Health 8:18

In this podcast, hear more about the adverse impacts of toxins from harmful algal blooms on human health, ecosystems, and the economy. In addition, learn how scientists are exploring the use of toxins and other chemicals released by these algae to treat certain diseases.

Circadian Rhythm and Your Health 8:20

In this podcast, Helmut Zarbl, Ph.D., discusses his research on circadian rhythms, and highlights why people who work night shifts and are frequently exposed to nighttime light have increased rates of certain types of cancer.

Enhancing Community Resilience for Disaster Preparedness 10:13

In this podcast, hear how researchers are working with communities to develop research questions related to resilience, while learning how communities and individuals are impacted by disasters and how they recover from them.

Crumb Rubber in Playgrounds and Children’s Health 9:16

In this podcast, learn more about what scientists are doing to understand the health risks of crumb rubber in playgrounds, and what you can do to reduce children’s exposure to potentially harmful contaminants.

Demystifying the Common Myths About Lead 6:29

In this podcast, learn about common myths around lead, and the evidence debunking them.

Addressing Environmental Health Disparities through Research 8:16

In this podcast, hear about the complex social and environmental factors that are involved in environmental health disparities. Plus, learn how the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) and NIEHS-funded researchers are working to address environmental health disparities and promote environmental justice for all.

Windows of Susceptibility 6:41

In this podcast, hear how researchers are studying sensitive windows of susceptibility, such as during pregnancy and early development, and learn how to prevent potentially harmful exposures to environmental stressors.

Flame Retardant Chemicals 7:33

In this podcast, hear how researchers and advocates are working to reduce exposure to flame retardants in particularly vulnerable communities, and to communicate with decision makers to further protect human health.

Understanding Bioavailability of Arsenic and Lead in Soils at Hazardous Waste Sites 7:38

In this podcast, learn about bioavailability and hear how it can affect people’s exposure to metals like arsenic and lead. Plus, learn how to reduce exposure to arsenic or lead present in contaminated soil.

Wood Burning Stoves and Human Health 7:37

In this podcast, hear how researchers at the University of Montana are working in their communities to understand exposure to indoor air pollutants and the negative health impacts it causes, and to identify promising interventions to protect human health.

Children, Nature, and the Importance of Getting Kids Outside 8:10

A shift towards sedentary lifestyles has far reaching impacts on children’s health, including increased incidence of obesity, diabetes, asthma, and attention deficit disorders. In this podcast, hear how spending time in nature can increase physical activity, reduce the risk of chronic disease, and improve children’s sense of emotional wellbeing. Plus, learn how health professionals and unique initiatives are working to prescribe nature to improve the health of children and their communities.

Antibacterial Agents: 8:21

Did you know that some products claiming to kill germs may actually be harming your health?

Children and the Changing Climate: 7:15

In this podcast, we take a close look at how climate change affects one particularly vulnerable population: children.

Healthy Child Care Environments: 6:48

In this podcast, we speak with an expert about ways to reduce harmful exposures and create healthy environments in child care settings.

Household Chemicals: 6:39

Do you know what’s in your cleaning supplies, automotive and home improvement products, garden supplies, and craft or hobby supplies? In this podcast, Dr. Paul Blanc, author of How Everyday Products Make People Sick, discusses the health impacts of some common household chemicals and how to protect your family.

Dealing with Disasters (Part 2): 7:07

In this podcast learn what NIEHS is doing to improve researchers’ ability to collect data, track recovery, and inform future disaster preparation and response as part of a national disaster risk reduction effort.

Dealing with Disasters (Part 1): 6:56

In this podcast hear about the types of health risks associated with disasters and how disaster research helps to reduce the health-related impacts of disasters.

Air Pollution and Your Heart: 6:39

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. Many factors are known to raise the risk of heart disease, including diet, smoking, inactivity, and genetic factors. According to a growing body of research, air pollution also plays an important role in the development of heart disease and in triggering cardiac events. In this podcast, we’ll hear about the latest research and offer tips to reduce your risk.

Mapping Environmental Health: 7:15

This podcast discusses recent developments in mapping technology, challenges with data management and training, and the potential for these technologies to improve our understanding of environmental health around the globe.

The Environment's Role in Infertility: 7:00

This podcast considers the potential relationships between certain environmental chemicals and infertility in both men and women.

Air Quality Monitoring for Citizen Science: 7:09

This podcast explores the potential and limitations of next-generation air quality monitors and offers strategies for citizen scientists as they get started.

Careers in Environmental Health: 6:44

Learn how you can contribute to environmental health whether you’re interested in science, health care, engineering, communication, community leadership or many other areas.

All About Phthalates: 6:53

In this podcast, we explore the latest scientific findings about phthalates and offer tips on how to reduce your exposure.

The Microbiome: 6:55

In this podcast, we hear about studies that are underway to assess the relationships between the environment, the microbiome, and human health.

Preventing Prenatal Exposures: 7:25

This podcast identifies some common contaminants of concern and discusses how doctors and pregnant women can work together to reduce prenatal exposures.

Controlling Allergens in Your Home: 6:49

In this podcast, we take a look at some common indoor allergens and offer tips on improving the air quality in your home.

A Second Look at the Impacts of Hydraulic Fracturing: 7:46

In this podcast, we consider how our understanding of the impacts of fracking has evolved since we last tackled the issue in 2013. Despite continued debate over the potential public health risks of fracking, many research questions remain unanswered. However, one thing seems clear: community members have an important role to play in research on the impacts of fracking.

Chemicals in Personal Care Products: 7:12

This podcast takes a look at some common chemicals found in personal care products and highlights new research about how they might affect our health.

Obesity and the Environment: 6:32

In this podcast, we explore how exposure to chemicals in the environment called "obesogens" could increase the risk for obesity.

Citizen Science: 6:30

In this podcast, we look at some real-world science being done by everyday people with low-cost research tools.

Arsenic in Rice and Other Foods: 6:40

In this podcast, learn why rice and other foods sometimes contain arsenic and get tips on how to reduce your exposure.

The Exposome: 6:43

In this podcast, we learn how studying the exposome helps scientists take a holistic look at how environmental exposures can keep us healthy—or make us sick.

The Epigenome: 6:43

In this podcast, we discuss the recent research on how the epigenome affects our health.

Environmental Health in the Nail Salon: 6:32

In this podcast, we discuss the latest research on environmental exposures in the nail salon.

Native American Health and the Legacy of Mining: 6:42

In this podcast, we learn how some Native American groups are teaming up with researchers to address the health legacy of abandoned mines on Tribal lands.

Fighting Asthma with ... a Healthy Diet: 6:31

In this podcast,we learn why a healthier diet might help reduce asthma attacks.

Breast Cancer and the Environment (Part 2): 6:28

In this podcast, we talk to an expert about translating breast cancer research into the decisions we make in our everyday lives.

Breast Cancer and the Environment (Part 1): 5:56

Worldwide, breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in women. In this podcast we talk to experts studying how the chemicals and other environmental factors we're exposed to early in life might contribute to the development of breast cancer later on.

Safe Urban Gardening: 6:06

What could be healthier than a backyard garden? In this podcast, we learn why soil contamination makes gardening potentially risky in some areas. Our experts explain what recent research can tell us about safe gardening practices.

Mercury in Seafood: 5:48

To eat fish or not to eat fish? This podcast explains why some types of fish contain high levels of mercury and how to find low-mercury seafood for your family to enjoy.

Protecting Children from Contaminants at School: 5:56

Schools built on hazardous waste sites? Yes, it really happens. In this podcast: how researchers and community members teamed up to investigate contamination at Rhode Island schools.

Impacts of Hydraulic Fracturing: 5:48

In this podcast, we talk about the science of fracking, what we do—and don't—know about its impacts, and how Health Impact Assessments could be used as an approach to identify how drilling might affect community members.

Keeping Your Home Safe from Radon: 6:13

Many homes in the United States harbor an invisible guest—radon. Exposure to this colorless, odorless gas is the number one cause of lung cancer among non-smokers. In this podcast, we discuss the latest radon research and what you can do to protect your family.