My Health
I did not know that in my area, there is a high accumulation of waste emissions that are raising the risk of cancer and other birth defects such as the birth of underweight and premature babies. Most of these toxic air pollutants are contributed by secondary sources such as benzene and formaldehyde emissions from chemicals. This contributes to about 46% of the total toxic air emissions. Other contributing factors include on-road and non-road mobile sources and machinery, which contribute about 27% of the total toxic emissions. Emissions generated from natural sources amount to about 10%. It is thus worth noting that the total toxic emissions that are impacting the health of human beings in Miramar Florida are a result of human activities.
As a community health nurse, it is crucial to educate citizens about the major causes of cancer cases, low birth defects, and even the decrease in mortality rates. Creating awareness about the health impacts of toxic emissions will help come up with prevention measures that will ensure citizens are not predisposed to these toxins. For instance, people working in companies dealing with benzene and formaldehyde chemicals need to be given protective gear that will prevent their exposure to these pollutants.
Also, educating pregnant women who are predisposed to air pollutants that may have birth defects can enable them to seek medical attention early enough to prevent the birth of underweight and premature babies. The women can also be educated on the right nutritional requirements and safe health practices during their period of pregnancy. Community nurses can achieve this by visiting women in maternal wards within the Miramar community and even those who are at home. Community nurses can also use posters and fliers to ensure that information is passed within the community. Such practices can help increase infant mortality rates by ensuring that babies are born healthy and grow to maturity while being healthy.