The article titled, Health Impact Assessments Are Needed in Decision Making about Environmental and Land-Use Policy, introduces a view that healthcare is the responsibility of all government sectors, not just designated health agencies. The author believes that regulations made throughout government entities can influence public health. He proposes that policies, plans, and projects be evaluated with recommendations for healthier choices. Some issues that could facilitate further review include minimum wage requirements, utility assistance for low-income families, and additional regulation on air quality and land use (Wernham, 2011).
There are many environmental aspects that can affect the health of citizens. How the roads are designed and maintained can affect the cost of fuel and the amount of wear and tear on a vehicle. Highways can add excessive air and noise pollution. The location of businesses and power plants can affect the food supply, air quality, and natural resources of the area. Even the condition or lack of sidewalks can be a safety concern (Wernham, 2011).
The author’s desire is to warn the reader about the monetary costs and health implications of ignoring the environmental impacts on health. Poverty influences health; it leads to such problems as obesity, malnutrition, cardiovascular disease, mental health disorders, and diabetes. Financial assistance can alleviate some of this risk. Poor air quality increases the likelihood of asthma and cancer. The noise and pollution from highways can also affect respiratory function and well-being. If people are able to live in safe and clean areas and eat healthy food, they will have a greater chance of success. If pollutants are placed away from people and food sources, the people will not be subject to the potential side effects as easily. The location and condition of parks and sidewalks can reduce physical injury and encourage exercise; both are good for continued health (Wernham, 2011).
The author believes that the reward of health outweighs the potential monetary cost. At this point, the cost and convenience for a business are the biggest inhibitors. Rightfully, there will be the added cost of evaluation, training, and alterations. However, the health of the people is more important than the bottom line. In response to monetary concerns, the author proposes the introduction of laws and regulations to make everyone equally accountable. The author also proposes the need for funding sources. The cost of safety should never be an excuse (Wernham, 2011).
Some businesses and companies are already taking the initiative to create a healthy nation. In one instance, an apartment complex for the elderly was to be built near a highway. There was concern about the noise and pollution, especially for those individuals with pre-existing health conditions. The builders added a garden area to buffer the excess sound and altered the air intake vents to face away from the highway. These were two easy solutions to the problem. In another situation, a plan to lease fuel from Alaska was proposed. There was a fear that the food source would be destroyed. Everyone worked together to ensure that a portion of preserved land be maintained and protected (Wernham, 2011).
There are ways to make people happy and healthy in the environment. The health of America is dependent upon the actions, laws, and guidelines set in government. There are people that cannot overcome environmental problems on their own; everyone has to work together and remember that every life is important (Wernham, 2011).
References
Wernham, A. (2011). Health Impact Assessments Are Needed In Decision Making About Environmental And Land-Use Policy. Web.