Using evidence found in teeth from two Neanderthals from southeastern France, researchers from the Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai report the earliest evidence of lead exposure in an extinct human-like species from 250,000 years ago. This study is the first to report lead exposure in Neanderthal and is the first to use teeth to reconstruct climate during and timing of key developmental events including weaning and nursing duration— key determinants of population growth. Results of the study were published in Science Advances, a journal published by the American Association for the Advancement of Science. To read more click here.
Monthly Archives: October 2018
Dr. Robert Wright Provides Commentary for AAP “Motherless Children Have the Hardest Time”
Dr. Robert Wright provided commentary for the American Academy of Pediatrics October 2018, VOLUME 142/Issue 4–“Motherless Children Have the Hardest Time”: Epigenetic Programming and Early Life Environment. Dr. Robert Wright discussed how the environment early in life can program health effects that manifest years or even decades later. His new commentary explains the importance of identifying risk factors for stress from infanthood. To read the AAP commentary click here.
Dr. Emily Moody Discusses Effects of Lead at the 20th National Environmental Conference at Tar Creek
Dr. Emily Moody presented on the effects of lead in adults at the 20th National Environmental Conference at Tar Creek and was interviewed by the Joplin Globe. Dr. Moody said she’s always been interested in recognizing the differences of toxic metals and how it affects people. “Any exposure that we do have (to lead) comes from our own history,” Moody said. “We mined lead and have used it in many products over a millennia, and that’s how it gets into our environments and our bodies.” Lead affects adults and children differently. The toxic metal affects children’s overall growth and development. Exposures to lead in children can cause decreased bone and muscle growth, lower IQ, nervous system damage, kidney damage and learning disabilities. In adults, lead is stored in the bones and can affect the kidneys, the cardiovascular system, the reproductive system, the nervous system and the digestive system. To read the full article click here.