The Endocrine system is a complex mechanism of glands that secrete hormones that control almost every cell, organ, and function in each of our bodies. This system is directly responsible for regulating “metabolism, growth and development, tissue function, sexual function, reproduction, sleep, and mood”. (Zimmermann, 2016) EDC’s or Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals are environmental toxins that trigger “biochemical processes that alter development pathways” thus interfering with hormonal dispersal. According to Guthman an Associate Professor at UC-Santa Cruz and author of Weighing In, “EDC’s can interfere with genetic expression in ways that transform bodily form and function, and these changes can be passed off to offspring.” (Guthman, 2011,
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Children who reside or otherwise have frequent access to these structures (schools included) are exposed to this toxic dust. Hawaii Island has one of the highest incidences of childhood Lead poisoning in the state, second only to Leeward, Oahu. Lead poisoning occurs in approximately 1% or one out of every 100 Hawaii Island children. Although the numbers have dramatically decreased over the last 30 years, we have not yet conquered the problem indefinitely. (Hawaii State DOH, 2006) More must be done to ensure the health and safety of Hawaii’s …show more content…
Public service outreach programs led by officials must be implemented to advise our community that Lead may still pose a problem for at-risk populations. The current methods of passing out brochures to home-occupants are not enough. We must initiate a taskforce willing to inspect deteriorating homes particularly those who house children and discuss options relating Lead containment and/or removal. All health care providers should recommend Lead testing for pregnant women exposed to structures built before 1978. Children under the age of six should be required to undergo blood testing annually in order to monitor levels of Lead within their bodies. We must also stress that only EPA Lead-safe certified construction companies can remove Lead based paint in a safe manner. In 2010, the EPA passed a federal regulation requiring construction companies dealing with renovation, repairs and painting to become certified by taking courses. However, these classes are expensive and small construction companies do not have the financial resources to afford certification. Of course, a lack of certification does not prevent business from illegally undertaking the dangerous task of Lead removal , repair and renovations. This poses a risk not only for construction workers but for the occupants of a
Children who reside or otherwise have frequent access to these structures (schools included) are exposed to this toxic dust. Hawaii Island has one of the highest incidences of childhood Lead poisoning in the state, second only to Leeward, Oahu. Lead poisoning occurs in approximately 1% or one out of every 100 Hawaii Island children. Although the numbers have dramatically decreased over the last 30 years, we have not yet conquered the problem indefinitely. (Hawaii State DOH, 2006) More must be done to ensure the health and safety of Hawaii’s …show more content…
Public service outreach programs led by officials must be implemented to advise our community that Lead may still pose a problem for at-risk populations. The current methods of passing out brochures to home-occupants are not enough. We must initiate a taskforce willing to inspect deteriorating homes particularly those who house children and discuss options relating Lead containment and/or removal. All health care providers should recommend Lead testing for pregnant women exposed to structures built before 1978. Children under the age of six should be required to undergo blood testing annually in order to monitor levels of Lead within their bodies. We must also stress that only EPA Lead-safe certified construction companies can remove Lead based paint in a safe manner. In 2010, the EPA passed a federal regulation requiring construction companies dealing with renovation, repairs and painting to become certified by taking courses. However, these classes are expensive and small construction companies do not have the financial resources to afford certification. Of course, a lack of certification does not prevent business from illegally undertaking the dangerous task of Lead removal , repair and renovations. This poses a risk not only for construction workers but for the occupants of a