Environmental Health
Alabama's #10 Health Indicator
Environmental health is a new addition to the SHA and is currently ranked as tenth AL’s health indicator. Environmental health is focused on the natural and man-made environments for the benefit of human health. The environment directly affects the quality of life and is impacted by socioeconomic disparities (Healthy People 2030).
Environmental health can start within an individual’s home with proper ventilation, using non-lead-based paint, properly treated tap water for consumption, and removing electrical hazards (ADPH Bureau of Environmental Services). Maintaining healthy homes and communities helps keep an individual healthy.
Disproportionately Affected Populations
Anyone can be exposed to environmental health concerns, but certain populations are more vulnerable. For example, individuals with cardiovascular or respiratory conditions may be more susceptible to heat-related illness (CDC Heat Illness), and lead exposure in children can cause under performance in school and slowed growth and development.
Alabama Environmental Health Highlights
Indicator data are retrieved from the ADPH Bureau of Environmental Services, Environmental Protection Agency, Alabama Department of Transportation, Alabama State Department of Education, and local community officials.
- In 2019, there were 510 community water systems throughout AL.
- Lead in water detection tests were conducted at most schools throughout AL in 2017-2019.
Health Indicators
The following indicators have been selected for use in developing a benchmark for measuring the current state of environmental health in Alabama:
- Environmental Health Overview
- Drought and Hot Weather Hazards (Data Link)
- Public Water Systems (Data Link)
- Water Quality Lead Testing at Schools (Data Download)
Resources
Page last updated: May 17, 2024
