The environmental exposures activity reminded me of when my undergraduate toxicology professor asked about environmental exposures we can find in our homes. Besides cleaning agents such as bleach, dish washing liquids, and laundry detergents I couldn't think of anything else... She brought up candles and air fresheners as examples and I was a bit surprised because I had never thought about lighting candles in my room as exposing myself to chemicals. I'm sure it's okay to light a scented candle every so often but I much prefer opening windows for fresh air now.
I'm not surprised that we were able to come up with so many different types of exposures during our activity. There are countless exposures around us no matter where we go, who we are, and what we do. Simultaneously, who we are, what we do, and where we live and frequent (essentially, social determinants of health) do affect the quantity and type of exposure we are exposed to. I'm anxious but look forward to learning more in-depth about the environmental exposures that surround us.
I think it's so cool you were able to take a toxicology course while you were an undergrad! I never had any exposure to a class like that and this activity was the first time I had to formally think about the harmful exposures surrounding us. I definitely agree with you about how social determinants of health play a large role in how safe the environments are in which we live, work, and play. There shouldn't be a disparity in home safety, especially regarding chemicals, and I wish everyone could have this same discussion :)
ReplyDeleteThis class activity definitely opened many minds! It makes sounding like living in a plastic bubble might be an ideal option after all! Now that you mentioned lighting candles as being a hazard, I just suddenly decided to stop burning mine all the time. (I like to set a zen mood for when I relax)... so I can actually go buy some battery-powered fake candles now! Thanks for sharing!
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