Environmental Public Health
Evaluates possible dangers to human health from toxic substances in the environment
Who we are
The Environmental Public Health Program team specializes in studying disease that spreads through people and identifying environmental hazards that could harm public health.
What we do
Harmful chemicals can come from accidents, waste disposal, work, or may travel from far away. Our team studies how people may come into contact with harmful things, like lead and mercury. We also teach people about the health problems these things can cause.
Our goals include:
- Helping people avoid or get rid of harmful chemicals that can make them sick
- Talking with the community to listen to their worries about harmful substances
- Sharing information about how these dangerous substances can affect health
Our programs include the Alaska Lead Surveillance Program, the Alaska Statewide Hair Mercury Biomonitoring Program, and a program for Subsistence Food Safety.
- Free, confidential hair mercury testing
- Blood lead screening in children and adults
- Follow-up investigations to figure out the source of a person's high blood lead levels
We also consult on public health issues about sites containing hazardous substances. To do this, we work together with the Agency for Toxic Substance and Disease Registry (ATSDR).
See related pages or contact us for more information.