Title : Researching into consequences of environmental toxins on healthy aging
Abstract:
Global warming [caused by human activities that release greenhouse gases (GHGs) into the atmosphere] intensifies the impact of environmental toxins on health of older adults. The author of this work argues that rising temperatures (resulting from environmental degradation) are contributing factors for chemical pollutants to vaporize more easily into the air. Environmental toxins originate from both anthropogenic (human-induced) and natural sources, finding their way into the air, water, and soil (through various activities and events). Environmental toxins accelerate biological aging by inducing chronic inflammation and oxidative stress. Environmental toxins and healthy aging (which implies “the process of developing and maintaining the functional ability that enables well-being in older age”) are, thus, negatively related. This research work is primarily aimed at presenting evidence-based discussion on linkages between environmental toxins & healthy aging. It briefly touches upon key health complications resulting from environmental toxins among older adults. In terms of research methodology, secondary data (largely ‘qualitative’ in nature) have been used. Scoping review of related (and relevant) literature was undertaken by the author for the purpose of data collection. Data were collected from secondary sources, such as journal articles, books, book chapters, and publications of inter-governmental agencies. Method of data analysis is ‘descriptive’, involving desk-based research. Analysis of data in this abstract indicates that continuous exposure to environmental toxins (a) degrades cellular health, and (b) increases likelihood of age-related diseases. Some of the outcomes of exposure to environmental toxins are cardiovascular decline, and cognitive impairment (including memory, attention, and decision-making). Other health outcomes include (a) muscle aches and headaches; (b) digestive issues; (c) skin problems, including rashes; (d) hormone imbalances; and (e) respiratory problems. It is pertinent to note that continuous exposure to environmental toxins pose added age-related health complications in over- crowded (populated) cities and towns. Environmental toxins are found to be hazardous substances that older people are exposed to through air, water, food products, etc. They negatively impact healthy aging process. Environmental toxins are found in (a) food products, (b) pesticides, (c) paints and cleaning products, and (d) industrial chemicals. It is pertinent to note that environmental toxins accumulate in food (products) which is health hazardous. Examples of environmental toxins are: BPA (a chemical found in some plastics), phthalates (commonly found in cosmetics), and formaldehyde (used in building materials, such as plywood and other press-wood products). Environmental chemicals, thus, play a role in the development of diseases, thereby negatively impacting healthy aging. In addition, toxic environmental pollutants are linked to faster aging (and associated health risks). There are global concerns about strategic interventions needed to prevent undesirable health outcomes (like heart disease, cancer, and cognitive decline) resulting from environmental contaminants. This abstract briefly concludes that environmental toxins severely impact the aging population. Exposure to various chemicals (comprised of environmental toxins) result in decline of organ functions and immune competence. This situation makes older adults highly susceptible to various health complications. There is, thus, need to take preventive measures to minimise the risks resulting from environmental toxins to ensure healthy aging.
Keywords: Environmental Toxins, Pollution, Healthy Aging, Global Warming, Human Exposure, Natural Resources, Industrial Chemicals, Greenhouse Gases (GHGs), and Ecosystems
