Medical Geology Issues in North America

Abstract

To a larger degree than most others, North Americans are shielded from the natural environment. Nevertheless, health problems caused by geologic materials and geologic processes do occur in North America. In contrast to the acute health problems caused by the geologic environment in developing countries, in North America these health concerns are more likely to be chronic, caused by long-term, low-level exposures. Among the potential health concerns that have received public health attention are exposure to trace elements such as fluorine, arsenic, and radon; exposure to natural mineral dusts; occupational and community exposures to trace elements; and ingestion of naturally occurring organic compounds in drinking water. This chapter provides North American examples of each of these environmental health problems and suggestions how the earth sciences can be an integral part of multi-disciplinary teams working to mitigate these problems.