Authors: Maria V. Alexandrova and Simran Dhaliwal Abstract: The struggle for clean water is a silent battle felt by millions around the world. There are countries that have a wealth of water per capita while other countries lack fresh water supply. As fresh water resources diminish, conflicts over these water resources seem eminent. Not only are conflicts on the rise due to the current water crisis, but also the progress of humankind is stalled. A society cannot advance if an invaluable resource is reduced. The societies that are prosperous have the most water usage and are the wealthiest. Unfortunately, water distribution faces these inequalities. Many public as well as private organizations suggest that there must be consensus by the global community to tackle this significant issue. Article (pdf)

Author: Aisha Alhassan Abstract: This article discusses environmental factors as they relate to public health in Haiti. Two environmental factors that affect Haiti’s public health are its inadequate infrastructure and its lack of resources. Lack of resources is exacerbated by Haiti’s escalating population — which in turn diminishes a healthy sustainable environment — which, in turn, causes further deterioration in public health. Haiti’s January 2010 earthquake further contributed to the country’s public health problems. Article (pdf)

Authors: Tess D. Ford and Dale O. Ritzel Abstract: Increasingly, older adults are accessing new technological applications available to them. To develop successful initiatives for older adults it is very important to have an understanding of the characteristics of this population. This article explores the fundamental areas which drive the development of products, programs or services for older adults and includes an exploration of the readiness for electronic health records and personal health records. Factors in marketing and communicating with seniors are presented along with specific points which are basic in marketing to any potential consumer. For health care organizations providing services to older adults to reach this population effectively, the organizations must understand the core values, characteristics and strategies which build consumer confidence and ultimately reach the consumer. Article (pdf)

Authors: Sandra Hombach and Prof. Dr. Kirsten Schlüter Abstract: Screen media potentially have such impact that serious health issues can be revealed among users. This paper presents the idea of making short films to create increased awareness in a pilot group of German school students and their peers. Moreover, we discuss the need for teacher trainee, as well as full-service teacher education. Article (pdf)

Author: John Hu Abstract: Environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) is a health hazard triggering hospital admission in both smoker and non-smokers. Moreover, it negatively impacts fetal development. In addition, it affects social environments. This paper proposes a solution to reduce the exposure of the general population to ETS through urban re-design, based on the principles of reduced sprawl and mixed-use city planning. Article (pdf)

Authors: Anitha Joseph, Suzy Pracht, Kirsten Schmeling Abstract: The possible, probable, and preferred futures in promoting health and preserving the environment depend on the actions of today. Human health relies on a clean and safe environment and the environment relies on responsible human behavior. Consequently, promoting education about preserving the environment and maintaining health has monumental importance. Issues affecting the environment and health range from air and water pollution to overcrowding and urbanization. Increasing health literacy, creating global partnerships, setting achievable goals, and working toward a sustainable future will put create the right path for ensuring a promising future. Article (pdf)

Authors: Britta Marfels and Mathilde Niehaus  Abstract: The subject of teacher health has long been the focus of scientific interest in Germany and elsewhere. In the Department of Rehabilitation and Special Education at the University of Cologne, a survey of teachers in professional preparation was carried out. Using factor analysis, the study examined which teacher traits or styles existed. Three factors emerged: suitable vs. unsuitable for the profession, female vs. male teaching style, and socially sensitive and disorganized vs. socially insecure and organized. Implications for professional preparation of teachers are presented. Article (pdf)

Authors: Robert J. McDermott, Klaus Klein, Dale O. Ritzel Abstract: The third winter meeting of the International Consortium for Interdisciplinary Education about Health and the Environment was held under the auspices of the University of Cologne’s Institute of Biology and its Didactics and the Gesellschaft für Umwelt, Gesundheit und Kommunikation, December 10, 2009 in Cologne, Germany. Several presentations and follow-up discussions ensued. This paper reiterates the purpose and philosophy of the Consortium, the need for interdisciplinary thinking about the linkages between the environment and health, and the future of interdisciplinary and cross-national initiatives. Article (pdf)

Authors: Dale O. Ritzel and Dhitinut Ratnapradipa Abstract: We detail an approach to teaching a global public health and environmental issues course which put more of an emphasis on health for all, use of technology in regards to environmental issues, global violence, and politics. Examples of activities to use in teaching the class are highlighted. We try to get students to think about the future of public health and environmental issues. Article (pdf)

Authors: Caitlin Stowe, Kali Thomas, Rita Crews Abstract: This article presents a global perspective of falls in the older population and the effect of the physical environment on the risk of falling and subsequent injury. Falls and injury are costly to individuals as well as to national health and social resources. This review highlights that falls constitute a widespread age-related problem, occur in all nations, and have common and preventable causes. Furthermore, this paper highlights the issue of the aging world population and the importance of addressing this public health concern. The emphasis of the review is on the information and programs that are already known or have been developed and encourage use of programs and policies to prevent the personal and resource cost of persons who fall. Article (pdf)

Authors: John K. Trainor, Lark Mitchell, Takuya Inoue, ShanShan Dong Abstract: The topic of cultural competence has been relevant to health and social science research for decades. Whereas many scholars have tried to parse out the components of cultural competence, the focus has been on cross-cultural interactions and how best for health care providers to bridge the gap between patient and provider as a means of improving health outcomes. As our knowledge of the complexity of health status has evolved, it has become clear that the environment plays an important role in health. This role moves beyond traditional ideas of environmental exposure to the elements or toxins and pollutants and incorporates the built environment as a key factor in an individual’s health. With the acknowledged importance of the environment in health it is crucial to incorporate the environment into our understanding of cultural competence. Article (pdf)