Effects of Climatic Variability and Land Use on American Drylands

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Human Health

Geologic materials and processes are capable of producing adverse health effects and exacerbating preexisting illness. In some cases, doses, rates, conditions, and mechanisms of exposure, and the consequent health effects, can be better understood through studies that incorporate geologic methods and knowledge. Understanding the ways by which toxic materials and pathogens are concentrated and transported in natural settings represent some of the challenges amenable to geologic study. Collaborations among geochemists, geologists, toxicologists, epidemiologists, and social scientists further offer powerful approaches to recognizing, treating, and avoiding exposure to natural toxic materials and soil-inhabiting pathogens.

For additional information, select from the following topics:

• Evaluate the effects of dust on human health
• Groundwater and spring water quality on Navajo lands
• Valley Fever - New Methods for Mapping the Presence of Soil Pathogens and Evaluating Risks of Airborne Transport
• USGS project on The Effects of Mineral Dust and Human Health