5 Environmental Health Risks Every Parent Should Know About

Photo by CDC on Unsplash

As parents, it’s our job to keep our children safe. We do everything in our power to create a secure, nurturing environment for them, from baby-proofing sharp corners to filling our homes with stimulating toys. However, some health risks are harder to detect, yet they could be lurking around your home. Here’s a look at some common environmental hazards and the steps you can take to protect your family’s health.  

• Asbestos Exposure

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral and, thanks to its durability and heat resistance, it was widely used in building materials and household products. Unfortunately, asbestos fibers are also extremely dangerous. When inhaled, especially over a long period of time, they can lead to respiratory diseases like mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer. 

While there are many free resources and support services for asbestos-caused illnesses, like Mesothelioma Hope, the best way to protect your children is to avoid all asbestos exposure. If your home was built before the 1980s, speak to an expert who can assess and if necessary, remove any asbestos. 

• Mold and Indoor Air Quality

Mold is more than an unsightly nuisance: it can cause allergies, asthma, and other serious respiratory issues in your children. Bathrooms, basements, and kitchens are common areas for mold, as they tend to be the most humid. Keep these places well-ventilated and address any moisture build-up as soon as you notice it to prevent mold growth. 

• Pesticides and Household Chemicals

Pesticides, household chemicals, and some cleaning products can pose health risks to your children if stored or used improperly. Young children are more susceptible to these chemicals because they’re still developing and are more likely to come into direct contact with contaminated surfaces, like floors and walls.

The best course of action is to opt for non-toxic, eco-friendly products for cleaning and pest control. Be sure to store all chemicals out of your children’s reach and keep them clearly and correctly labeled. If you use pesticides or strong chemicals in the home or garden, restrict children’s access until the product has dissipated, or at least cover the affected area. 

• Water Quality

Getting your kids to drink enough can be a challenge as it is, but when it comes to water, it’s not only about quantity; the quality matters, too. Contaminants like lead, chlorine, and bacteria in your home’s water supply can pose a serious risk to your kids’ health. The best thing you can do is install a household water filtration system. This will not only keep your little ones safe, but it improves the taste too!

• Radon

Radon is a radioactive gas that’s found everywhere, and most of the time, it causes no issues. However, in areas where it’s more concentrated, this colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas can have long-term health implications. To protect your children from high levels of radon, research the radon presence in your area or get a testing kit. Thankfully, there are plenty of radon mitigation systems you can install in your home if necessary. 

Endnote

Protecting your children’s health goes beyond decking out your home with child-friendly furnishings. Asbestos, mold, radon, household chemicals, and even water present unseen hazards that can cause adverse health effects, especially in developing children. By taking proactive measures, you can reduce exposure to these risks and create a healthier, safer environment for your family.