Linking the Oceans to Public Health
Author Information
Author(s): Hauke L Kite-Powell, Lora E Fleming, Lorraine C Backer, Elaine M Faustman, Porter Hoagland, Ami Tsuchiya, Lisa R Younglove, Bruce A Wilcox, Rebecca J Gast
Primary Institution: Marine Policy Center, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution
Hypothesis
What are the connections between the oceans and public health?
Conclusion
The study highlights the complex linkages between ocean conditions and public health, emphasizing the need for interdisciplinary research.
Supporting Evidence
- There are numerous connections between the oceans, human activities, and human health that result in both positive and negative exposures.
- Some risks, such as acute health effects from shellfish poisoning, are well understood, while others are less quantified.
- Future research should include epidemiological, behavioral, and economic components to address public health risks.
Takeaway
The oceans can affect our health in both good and bad ways, like providing healthy food or causing sickness from pollution.
Methodology
The paper reviews existing research and discusses future research priorities regarding the health effects of ocean-related factors.
Limitations
The current state of knowledge about the linkages between oceans and public health varies, with many risks poorly quantified.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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