Physical Environment
There are many ways in which the environment can effect our health. The weather and air are such a normal part of our everyday life that it is easy to forget how they may effect us. However, our environment can affect our health in a variety of ways such as:
Food and Water
Contaminated water is the single greatest contributor to serious illness particularly in third world countries. Diseases such as enteritis, diarrhea, and cholera cause many deaths in underdeveloped countries. Famine, drought, and pests can significantly alter the quantity and quality of the food supply.
Air pollution
Poor air quality poses more challenge than water pollution. Since the Clean Air Act of 1970, lead and carbon monoxide levels have been reduced but more recently these levels have begun to increase due to population growth and industrial expansion. Acid rain and the depletion of the ozone layer are among the most serious air pollution threats.