protecting the fetus and the child
from environmental hazards

a healthy environment
for all children

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California Health Outcomes

Asthma

Specialists described asthma as a health condition that affects many children of diverse income and ethnic backgrounds. Many experts pointed to poor air quality (indoors and out), pesticides, dust, mold, mildew, and cockroaches as possible reasons to explain the rapidly increasing asthma rates. Numerous leaders agreed on the need to research why these rates are increasing at such an alarming rate in California.

Lead Poisoning

Lead Poisoning Various organizations perceived lead poisoning as one of the greatest threats to children's health, and stated that this health threat should have disappeared by now. Many were troubled by lead-based paint still found in homes and school buildings, as well as lead in water and soil. Several individuals recommended a comprehensive system to screen and treat California's children, while others believed lead poisoning problems have practically diminished, and suggested allocating resources elsewhere.

Other Concerns

Leaders identified cancer, learning disabilities, autism, and infertility as additional health concerns. They also described the potential consequences of a child's exposure to many toxicants at the same time (multiple, cumulative and synergistic effects), and pointed out that children have more time than adults to develop environmentally-triggered diseases like cancer.

Back to California Interim Findings Main Document