Environmental Dangers
Preparing for a chemical terrorism event has been a national priority since the events of September 11; however, terrorism isn’t the only threat to our health that is mediated through the environment.
Tens of thousands of chemicals are produced and used daily in the United States, and Americans are exposed to them through the environment. Public health laboratories test clinical samples, such as blood, to monitor chemicals that get into our bodies - a process called biomonitoring.
Guided by its members, APHL develops communication materials, training curricula and position statements and supports environmental health fellows and trainees through funding provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The association works continually to strengthen communication between laboratories and the federal government.