Cadmium is a naturally occurring heavy metal that has become a global concern due to its widespread industrial use and persistence in the environment. Found in batteries, pigments, plastics, and as a byproduct of mining and smelting, cadmium can contaminate air, soil, and water. Human exposure primarily occurs through food, tobacco smoke, and occupational settings,…

Manganese is an essential trace element necessary for human health, industrial processes, and steel production, yet it also poses risks when exposure levels exceed safe thresholds. Occupational exposure in mining, welding, and manufacturing, as well as environmental contamination from industrial emissions or water supplies, can lead to neurological effects, including manganism — a Parkinson’s-like disorder.…

The protection of native species is central to biodiversity, ecosystem resilience, and cultural heritage. Native plants, animals, and microorganisms provide critical ecosystem services such as pollination, water purification, and soil stability. Yet these species face mounting risks from habitat loss, climate change, pollution, and invasive species. The decline or disappearance of native species not only…

Titanium is valued for its strength, light weight, and corrosion resistance, making it indispensable in aerospace, medical devices, construction, and consumer goods. While titanium itself is generally considered safe, its extraction, processing, and use in certain forms raise potential health and environmental risks. Occupational exposures to titanium dusts and nanoparticles, as well as environmental impacts…

Understanding aggregate exposure has become increasingly important in public health, regulatory policy, and consumer safety. Unlike assessments that focus on a single source of risk, aggregate exposure considers the combined effects of multiple routes and pathways — such as air, water, food, consumer products, and occupational environments — by which individuals may encounter a chemical…

Sulfur dioxide (SO₂) is a major air pollutant generated primarily from the combustion of fossil fuels and certain industrial processes. Exposure is linked to respiratory irritation, asthma exacerbation, and cardiovascular effects, while also contributing to acid rain, which damages ecosystems, infrastructure, and agriculture. Although emissions have declined in many regions due to regulations, SO₂ remains…

Baby formula represents a uniquely sensitive area of food safety and nutrition, given its role as the primary or sole source of sustenance for many infants. Ensuring the safety, quality, and adequacy of infant formula is critical to supporting early childhood development and preventing health risks during a period of profound vulnerability. Contamination incidents, supply…

Mitigating flood risk goes beyond response and recovery — it involves proactive strategies to reduce the likelihood and severity of impacts before disasters occur. Measures range from physical infrastructure, such as levees, dams, and green stormwater systems, to policy interventions including zoning, building codes, and managed retreat. Climate adaptation and resilience planning now make flood…

The media plays a pivotal role in shaping public understanding of risks, influencing how individuals perceive, prioritize, and respond to threats. Whether covering public health crises, environmental hazards, or technological innovations, media narratives can amplify accurate information — or spread misinformation that erodes trust and undermines protective action. The challenges of media and risk are…

Public health is the foundation of population well-being, addressing risks that range from infectious disease outbreaks and chronic conditions to environmental hazards and social determinants of health. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the essential role of public health systems in managing crises, but also revealed vulnerabilities in preparedness, equity, and trust. The sector’s complexity arises from…