https://websites4-live-prod.ysmdevs.com/ysph/news-rss/?orgId=109209&title=Latest+News+from+Environmental+Health+Sciences A selection of the latest research, academic, and other newsworthy developments at Environmental Health Sciences en-us Copyright 2026 Yale School of Medicine Sat, 16 May 2026 03:45:31 Z https://medicine.yale.edu/ysph/about-school-of-public-health/communications-public-relations/publications/public-health-magazine/article/students-foster-community-and-more-school-news/ https://medicine.yale.edu/ysph/about-school-of-public-health/communications-public-relations/publications/public-health-magazine/article/students-foster-community-and-more-school-news/ Students in EHS 544, “Climate Equity and Health Policy Methods,” aren’t just producing research, they're co-developing actual legislation with community partners — legislation that has been raised by the Connecticut General Assembly’s Public Health Committee. Thu, 14 May 2026 04:00:00 Z https://ysph.yale.edu/news-article/above-and-beyond/ https://ysph.yale.edu/news-article/above-and-beyond/ The YSPH community came together on May 13th to recognize faculty and staff excellence, and to unveil its new ceremonial mace. Wed, 13 May 2026 17:00:00 Z https://medicine.yale.edu/ysph/about-school-of-public-health/communications-public-relations/publications/public-health-magazine/article/cooling-dwight/ https://medicine.yale.edu/ysph/about-school-of-public-health/communications-public-relations/publications/public-health-magazine/article/cooling-dwight/ Yale researchers worked with residents of New Haven’s Dwight neighborhood to document the impact of urban heat and identify community-informed solutions. Wed, 13 May 2026 04:00:00 Z https://www.theguardian.com/science/2026/may/03/getting-older-ageing-happiest-time-of-life https://www.theguardian.com/science/2026/may/03/getting-older-ageing-happiest-time-of-life Aging does not mean inevitable decline, new YSPH research suggests – and having a optimistic outlook can even bring improvements. Sat, 02 May 2026 04:00:00 Z https://www.news-medical.net/news/20260427/Early-life-exposure-to-PFAS-associated-with-common-childhood-leukemia.aspx https://www.news-medical.net/news/20260427/Early-life-exposure-to-PFAS-associated-with-common-childhood-leukemia.aspx Early exposure to PFAS, a group of widely used compounds known as "forever chemicals," was associated with a higher risk of acute lymphoblastic leukemia, the most common childhood cancer, according to University of California, Irvine Joe C. Wen School of Population & Public Health researchers. Mon, 27 Apr 2026 04:00:00 Z https://www.nytimes.com/2026/04/02/climate/microplastics-maha-epa.html https://www.nytimes.com/2026/04/02/climate/microplastics-maha-epa.html The federal government has pledged to reduce levels of microplastics and pharmaceuticals in public drinking water. YSPH environmental scientist Dr. Vasilis Vasiliou says the move is encouraging, but there is a lot of work to do, including defining a standard measurement for microplastics. Tue, 07 Apr 2026 04:00:00 Z https://ysph.yale.edu/news-article/what-experts-wish-you-knew-about-colon-cancer/ https://ysph.yale.edu/news-article/what-experts-wish-you-knew-about-colon-cancer/ March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. In this 3 Essential Questions feature, Yale School of Public Health’s Dr. Caroline Johnson and Dr. Sunny Siddique answer your key colon cancer questions. Tue, 31 Mar 2026 04:00:00 Z https://abcnews.com/Health/extreme-heat-impact-health-early-dangerous-temperatures-hit/story?id=131248730 https://abcnews.com/Health/extreme-heat-impact-health-early-dangerous-temperatures-hit/story?id=131248730 As a dangerous heat wave hits the West, doctors warn people can suffer severe health effects, which can be even worse when high temperatures come earlier than expected. YSPH's Dr. Kai Chen comments. Fri, 20 Mar 2026 04:00:00 Z https://www.nytimes.com/2026/03/17/opinion/health/maha-public-health.html?unlocked_article_code=1.T1A.TcpK.aOcEke06NW6_&smid=url-share https://www.nytimes.com/2026/03/17/opinion/health/maha-public-health.html?unlocked_article_code=1.T1A.TcpK.aOcEke06NW6_&smid=url-share What Happened When a MAHA Activist and a Yale Scientist Worked Together Tue, 17 Mar 2026 04:00:00 Z https://www.everydayhealth.com/pregnancy/no-clear-link-between-tylenol-use-during-pregnancy-and-autism-or-adhd/ https://www.everydayhealth.com/pregnancy/no-clear-link-between-tylenol-use-during-pregnancy-and-autism-or-adhd/ A study of 2.1 million births found no link between prenatal acetaminophen exposure and ADHD or autism when researchers compared sibling outcomes. YSPH Associate Professor Zeyan Liew is senior author of the study. Tue, 10 Mar 2026 04:00:00 Z https://ysph.yale.edu/news-article/yale-study-challenges-notion-that-aging-means-decline-finds-many-older-adults-improve-over-time/ https://ysph.yale.edu/news-article/yale-study-challenges-notion-that-aging-means-decline-finds-many-older-adults-improve-over-time/ Aging in later life is often portrayed as a steady slide toward physical and cognitive decline. But a new study by scientists at Yale University suggests an alternate narrative — that older individuals can and do improve over time, and their mindset toward aging plays a major part in their success. Thu, 05 Mar 2026 05:00:00 Z https://www.foxcarolina.com/2026/03/04/alcohol-consumption-its-lowest-point-80-years-health-warnings-grow/ https://www.foxcarolina.com/2026/03/04/alcohol-consumption-its-lowest-point-80-years-health-warnings-grow/ The share of Americans who drink alcohol has dropped to its lowest level since the 1940s. Some people may have changed their behaviors after learning of alcohol's impact on the body. YSPH Professor Vasilis Vasilou describes the relationship between alcohol and cancer. Wed, 04 Mar 2026 05:00:00 Z https://www.jmir.org/2026/1/e93193 https://www.jmir.org/2026/1/e93193 Using data gathered from wearable air samplers, Yale School of Public Health Associate Professor Krystal Pollitt discovered that hazardous chemicals from wildfires linger inside people's homes for weeks after outside exposures dissipate. Thu, 26 Feb 2026 05:00:00 Z https://medicine.yale.edu/ysph/about-school-of-public-health/communications-public-relations/publications/public-health-magazine/article/school-news-feb-2026/ https://medicine.yale.edu/ysph/about-school-of-public-health/communications-public-relations/publications/public-health-magazine/article/school-news-feb-2026/ YSPH launches the Future of Health Innovation Hub, a Yale team leads water study in East Palestine, Ohio, what to know about the new childhood vaccination recommendations — and more. Tue, 24 Feb 2026 05:00:00 Z https://medicine.yale.edu/ysph/about-school-of-public-health/communications-public-relations/publications/public-health-magazine/article/translating-science/ https://medicine.yale.edu/ysph/about-school-of-public-health/communications-public-relations/publications/public-health-magazine/article/translating-science/ Three impact stories and one essay detail research projects across YSPH's Scholarly Areas of Focus, led by Drs. Nicola Hawley, Yusuf Ransome, Kai Chen, and Zack Cooper. Tue, 24 Feb 2026 05:00:00 Z https://www.goodmorningamerica.com/amp/news/story/epa-rolling-back-greenhouse-gas-emissions-endangerment-finding-130149962 https://www.goodmorningamerica.com/amp/news/story/epa-rolling-back-greenhouse-gas-emissions-endangerment-finding-130149962 The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is rescinding its 2009 finding that six key greenhouse gases threaten human health and welfare. YSPH Associate Professor Kai Chen says the rollback threatens millions of lives. Sat, 14 Feb 2026 05:00:00 Z https://www.nytimes.com/2026/02/12/well/alcohol-body-health-effects.html https://www.nytimes.com/2026/02/12/well/alcohol-body-health-effects.html From the moment we take a sip, drinking starts to influence our biology. YSPH Professor Vasilis Vasiliou joins other experts in providing information about the impact of alcohol on personal health. Thu, 12 Feb 2026 05:00:00 Z https://ysph.yale.edu/news-article/cardiovascular-deaths-from-air-pollution-declining-in-the-us-but-racial-disparities-persist/ https://ysph.yale.edu/news-article/cardiovascular-deaths-from-air-pollution-declining-in-the-us-but-racial-disparities-persist/ A new study from the Yale School of Public Health shows that air pollution-related cardiovascular deaths are increasingly concentrated among traditionally underserved communities and driven by specific chemical components rather than overall pollution levels. Mon, 09 Feb 2026 05:00:00 Z https://www.wtrf.com/local/were-running-out-of-time-east-palestine-community-shares-pain-seeks-progress-with-new-study-launched/ https://www.wtrf.com/local/were-running-out-of-time-east-palestine-community-shares-pain-seeks-progress-with-new-study-launched/ Yale researchers are investigating the potential health effects of a train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio, a year ago. Dr. Nicole Deziel, one of the study's leaders, says the goal is to help residents better understand the safety of their water and environment. Dr. Michelle Bell of the School of the Environment is also leading the project. Tue, 03 Feb 2026 05:00:00 Z https://www.statnews.com/2026/01/26/podcasters-why-should-i-trust-you-discuss-maha-shared-pain/ https://www.statnews.com/2026/01/26/podcasters-why-should-i-trust-you-discuss-maha-shared-pain/ Boosted by the open communication efforts of the “Why Should I Trust You?” podcast, a supporter of the Make America Healthy Again movement is working with Yale School of Public Health researchers to study drinking water safety in East Palestine, Ohio, where a train carrying toxic chemicals derailed in 2023. Mon, 26 Jan 2026 05:00:00 Z https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-026-00097-8 https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-026-00097-8 A common pain reliever taken in pregnancy might raise the risk of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, according to recent research. But proof of cause and effect remains elusive. YSPH's Dr. Zeyan Liew, a lead investigator in this area, comments. Wed, 21 Jan 2026 05:00:00 Z https://www.newsweek.com/harmful-chemicals-found-in-major-bottled-water-brands-11350126 https://www.newsweek.com/harmful-chemicals-found-in-major-bottled-water-brands-11350126 A new study has found that there are dozens of unregulated harmful chemicals in a number of popular brands of bottled water. YSPH Dr. Vasilis Vasiliou comments. Fri, 16 Jan 2026 05:00:00 Z https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/2025/12/26/autism-research-diagnosis-subtypes/ https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/2025/12/26/autism-research-diagnosis-subtypes/ For decades, autism has been described as a spectrum - an elastic term that stretches from nonverbal children to adults with doctorates. Beneath that vast range lies a shared pattern of social communication and behavioral differences, long resistant to neat explanations. Sun, 28 Dec 2025 05:00:00 Z https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2535078122 https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2535078122 Innovative analytical tools like the wearable Fresh Air wristband developed by YSPH epidemiologist Krystal Pollitt are helping to advance the growing field of exposomics. Wed, 24 Dec 2025 05:00:00 Z https://shopping.yahoo.com/home-garden/kitchen/article/are-aluminum-pans-safe-to-cook-with-we-consulted-experts-on-different-types-of-aluminum-cookware-174058659.html https://shopping.yahoo.com/home-garden/kitchen/article/are-aluminum-pans-safe-to-cook-with-we-consulted-experts-on-different-types-of-aluminum-cookware-174058659.html Although aluminum cookware is lightweight, uncoated pots and pans can pose safety risks. YSPH Associate Professor Krystal Pollitt offers guidance. Wed, 10 Dec 2025 05:00:00 Z https://ysph.yale.edu/news-article/ysph-researchers-uncover-potential-new-insights-into-colorectal-cancer-surge/ https://ysph.yale.edu/news-article/ysph-researchers-uncover-potential-new-insights-into-colorectal-cancer-surge/ Yale School of Public Health researchers have found that reduced levels of a certain metabolite in younger cancer patients may be associated with early-onset colorectal cancer. Thu, 04 Dec 2025 05:00:00 Z https://www.thenationalherald.com/yale-professor-vasilis-vasiliou-discusses-olive-oil-and-health/ https://www.thenationalherald.com/yale-professor-vasilis-vasiliou-discusses-olive-oil-and-health/ At the 6th International Yale Symposium on Olive Oil and Health, YSPH Professor Vasilis Vasiliou updated the audience on recent research on olive oil’s health benefits. Wed, 19 Nov 2025 05:00:00 Z https://ysph.yale.edu/news-article/warming-us-climate-linked-to-rising-deaths-from-heat/ https://ysph.yale.edu/news-article/warming-us-climate-linked-to-rising-deaths-from-heat/ Record-breaking heat and severe cold spells are having a significant impact on health and mortality in the United States, say researchers at the Yale School of Public Health (YSPH). Fri, 07 Nov 2025 05:00:00 Z https://whyshoulditrustyou.substack.com/p/a-model-for-public-health-in-the https://whyshoulditrustyou.substack.com/p/a-model-for-public-health-in-the This episode of the "Why Should I Trust You?" podcast explores what happens when a Yale School of Public Health researcher joins forces with a MAHA organizer to support an American community. Could this serve as a model, a new way of doing public health - using research and advocacy and building relationships and trust - at a time of great division in our country today? Thu, 30 Oct 2025 04:00:00 Z https://ysph.yale.edu/news-article/lone-star-ticks-nitrogen-dioxide-pollution-and-dementia-care-study-highlight-october-2025-research-roundup/ https://ysph.yale.edu/news-article/lone-star-ticks-nitrogen-dioxide-pollution-and-dementia-care-study-highlight-october-2025-research-roundup/ A YSPH investigation discovers significant racial disparities in the health impact of nitrogen dioxide pollution. A new study highlights successful dementia-friendly communities in China; and a rare lone star tick bite gets documented in Connecticut. Learn more in this month's research roundup report. Tue, 21 Oct 2025 04:00:00 Z https://ysph.yale.edu/news-article/illuminating-innovation-in-sustainable-health-care-at-climate-week-nyc/ https://ysph.yale.edu/news-article/illuminating-innovation-in-sustainable-health-care-at-climate-week-nyc/ The event was once again the largest full-day gathering on climate change and health at Climate Week, featuring 28 speakers working at the forefront of sustainability and health care transformation. Wed, 08 Oct 2025 04:00:00 Z https://ysph.yale.edu/news-article/in-the-us-rising-temperatures-may-increase-overdose-deaths/ https://ysph.yale.edu/news-article/in-the-us-rising-temperatures-may-increase-overdose-deaths/ Across the United States, rising temperatures due to climate change pose a growing threat to public health. Extreme heat exposure has been linked to increases in premature deaths, cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, suicide rates, and violent crime. A growing body of research additionally points to a connection between heat and fatal drug overdoses. Tue, 07 Oct 2025 12:00:00 Z https://ysph.yale.edu/news-article/building-resilience-in-the-face-of-extreme-climate/ https://ysph.yale.edu/news-article/building-resilience-in-the-face-of-extreme-climate/ Far less extreme cold weather, more dangerous heat days, accelerating sea level rise, and an increased frequency of hazardous storm surges are possible in Connecticut by the end of the century. Mon, 06 Oct 2025 04:00:00 Z https://ysph.yale.edu/news-article/what-the-research-says-about-autism-and-tylenol-use-during-pregnancy/ https://ysph.yale.edu/news-article/what-the-research-says-about-autism-and-tylenol-use-during-pregnancy/ Dr. Zeyan Liew, PhD, MPH, is one of the country's leading scientists when it comes to studying possible links between frequent acetaminophen use during pregnancy and child neurodevelopment conditions such as autism. Dr. Liew discusses the latest research on the issue in this 4 Essential Questions feature. Tue, 23 Sep 2025 04:00:00 Z https://www.nytimes.com/2025/09/18/climate/wildfire-smoke-health-deaths.html https://www.nytimes.com/2025/09/18/climate/wildfire-smoke-health-deaths.html Pollution from fires, intensified by rising temperatures, is on track to become one of America’s deadliest climate disasters, according to a new study. YSPH Associate Professor Kai Chen calls the report a "wake-up call." Thu, 18 Sep 2025 04:00:00 Z https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/2025/09/05/rfk-autism-tylenol-pregnancy/ https://www.washingtonpost.com/health/2025/09/05/rfk-autism-tylenol-pregnancy/ A new study suggests there is a connection between Tylenol use during pregnancy and autism. Dr. Zeyan Liew, a YSPH scientist who has extensively studied the issue, says there is evidence that acetaminophen may negatively affect fetal development, but much more research is needed to investigate how other potential factors, such as medication, diet, and chemicals, may influence neurodevelopment. Fri, 05 Sep 2025 04:00:00 Z https://ysph.yale.edu/news-article/flexible-curriculum-environmental-research-key-for-student-choosing-ysph/ https://ysph.yale.edu/news-article/flexible-curriculum-environmental-research-key-for-student-choosing-ysph/ First-year student Sami Popol, MPH '27, is eager to join YSPH's profound community of teachers and scholars. She hopes to use the skills and knowledge she gains to make communities healthier and contribute to environmental justice as an environmental epidemiologist. Mon, 25 Aug 2025 04:00:00 Z https://www.newsweek.com/drinking-water-contamination-pfas-millions-more-affected-2116966 https://www.newsweek.com/drinking-water-contamination-pfas-millions-more-affected-2116966 New data released by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency shows that millions of Americans are drinking water that is contaminated with the carcinogenic chemicals PFAS, otherwise known as 'forever chemicals'. Professor Vasilis Vasiliou, chair of the YSPH Department of Environmental Health Sciences, says the findings underscore the magnitude of the problem PFAS presents. Fri, 22 Aug 2025 04:00:00 Z https://www.ccjm.org/content/92/8/463 https://www.ccjm.org/content/92/8/463 Any patient has the right to undergo blood testing for so-called 'forever chemicals' formally known as PFAS, but the limitations of testing must be discussed with the patient, advises Dr. Vasilis Vasiliou, Yale School of Public Health professor and chair of the Department of Environmental Health Sciences. Yale Research Associate Phil Zuccaro and Dr. Damaskini Valvi of the Icahn School of Medicine join Vasiliou as co-authors of the advisory. Wed, 20 Aug 2025 04:00:00 Z https://www.washingtonpost.com/wellness/2025/08/19/plastic-water-bottles-microplastics/ https://www.washingtonpost.com/wellness/2025/08/19/plastic-water-bottles-microplastics/ Single-use plastic water bottles can release plastic particles, along with chemicals and metals, into the water under certain conditions. YSPH environmental epidemiologist Dr. Nicole Deziel explains the risks. Tue, 19 Aug 2025 04:00:00 Z https://news.yale.edu/2025/08/13/troubled-waters-future-drinking-water-us https://news.yale.edu/2025/08/13/troubled-waters-future-drinking-water-us From fluoride to “forever chemicals,” drinking water has been in the spotlight this year. In a Q&A, Yale School of Public Health epidemiologist Dr. Nicole Deziel discusses the water we drink today — and what’s on tap for the future. Wed, 13 Aug 2025 04:00:00 Z https://www.newsweek.com/alcohol-pfas-chemicals-harm-liver-study-2108535 https://www.newsweek.com/alcohol-pfas-chemicals-harm-liver-study-2108535 A new review has found that exposure to particular chemicals can, when combined, enhance damage to the liver. The researchers of the July 2025 review, published in Toxicological Sciences, found that both alcohol and PFAS chemicals—a group of widely-used compounds—damage the liver in similar ways. This could be "causing fat buildup, inflammation, and oxidative stress," Vasilis Vasiliou, one of the authors of the review, and chair and professor of environmental health sciences at Yale School of Public Health, told Newsweek. Tue, 05 Aug 2025 12:44:00 Z https://www.washingtonpost.com/climate-environment/2025/08/05/artificial-turf-heat-health-environment-cost/ https://www.washingtonpost.com/climate-environment/2025/08/05/artificial-turf-heat-health-environment-cost/ An artificial turf field on a summer day is hotter than grass and asphalt. Here’s what to know about the debate over grass vs. turf. YSPH environmental epidemiologist Dr. Vasilis Vasiliou, PhD, shares his expertise on the matter. Tue, 05 Aug 2025 04:00:00 Z https://www.nytimes.com/2025/07/29/well/eat/plastic-water-bottle-health-microplastics.html https://www.nytimes.com/2025/07/29/well/eat/plastic-water-bottle-health-microplastics.html YSPH environmental epidemiologist Dr. Nicole Deziel explains how certain chemicals in plastic water bottles can be released when exposed to sunlight or heat, creating potential health risks. Tue, 29 Jul 2025 04:00:00 Z https://ysph.yale.edu/news-article/new-ysph-pilot-grants-aim-to-support-innovative-interdisciplinary-research/ https://ysph.yale.edu/news-article/new-ysph-pilot-grants-aim-to-support-innovative-interdisciplinary-research/ The Yale School of Public Health recently launched its inaugural Transformational Pilot Funding grants, providing internal seed money to empower faculty to pursue ambitious, cross-disciplinary studies that have the potential to transform health outcomes locally and globally. Mon, 21 Jul 2025 04:00:00 Z https://theconversation.com/children-living-near-oil-and-gas-wells-face-higher-risk-of-rare-leukemia-studies-show-252994 https://theconversation.com/children-living-near-oil-and-gas-wells-face-higher-risk-of-rare-leukemia-studies-show-252994 In this commentary, YSPH environmental epidemiologist Nicole Deziel and Lisa McKenzie from the University of Colorado discuss their research on the associations between children living near oil and gas wells and an increased risk of leukemia. Thu, 17 Jul 2025 04:00:00 Z https://longisland.news12.com/whats-in-the-water-groundbreaking-study-offers-insight-into-potential-carcinogen-in-li-drinking-water https://longisland.news12.com/whats-in-the-water-groundbreaking-study-offers-insight-into-potential-carcinogen-in-li-drinking-water News 12’s What’s In The Water series offers an exclusive look at a Yale University study into 1,4 dioxane, which has been classified as a potential carcinogen. Mon, 14 Jul 2025 04:00:00 Z https://www.newsweek.com/whats-contaminating-water-across-all-50-states-full-list-2095858 https://www.newsweek.com/whats-contaminating-water-across-all-50-states-full-list-2095858 A study found a total of 324 contaminants in drinking water, with 12 identified across all 50 states. YSPH Professor Vasilis Vasiliou comments. Fri, 11 Jul 2025 04:00:00 Z https://abcnews.go.com/Health/texas-floodwaters-increase-health-risks-months-experts/story?id=123675897 https://abcnews.go.com/Health/texas-floodwaters-increase-health-risks-months-experts/story?id=123675897 Central Texas is continuing to recover from one of the deadliest floods in the state's history. YSPH Associate Professor Kai Chen warns residents to take precautions, as a buildup of mold, sewage system failures, and other environmental issues after the flooding can pose significant health risks. Fri, 11 Jul 2025 04:00:00 Z https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/health/article/the-best-nontoxic-cookware-for-a-healthier-kitchen-012312084.html https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/health/article/the-best-nontoxic-cookware-for-a-healthier-kitchen-012312084.html It's important to replace cookware when it starts to show signs of deterioration. YSPH's Dr. Krystal Pollitt says people should be careful in making their choices and not select cookware that contains so-called 'forever chemicals,' which have been linked to chronic disease. Tue, 08 Jul 2025 04:00:00 Z