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Prospecting Microbial Strains for Bioremediation and Probiotics Development for Metaorganism Research and Preservation

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Human Health and Ocean Pollution.

Philip J Landrigan¹, John J Stegeman², Lora E Fleming^3,4

¹Boston College, US.

Annals of Global Health

|December 23, 2020

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Ocean pollution, a major environmental health risk, causes millions of premature deaths and degrades ecosystems. Urgent, evidence-based interventions are crucial to control pollution at its source and protect marine environments and human well-being.

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Area of Science:

Environmental Health
Marine Biology
Public Health Policy

Background:

Ocean pollution is a significant global environmental issue, contributing to millions of premature deaths annually and ecosystem degradation.
It is inadequately controlled and poses serious threats to human health and well-being, with impacts only beginning to be understood.

Purpose of the Study:

To examine the known and potential impacts of ocean pollution on human health.
To inform policymakers and the public about these threats.
To propose priorities for pollution control and prevention to safeguard human health.

Main Methods:

Topic-focused reviews synthesizing existing research on ocean pollution and human health.
Identification of knowledge gaps and future trends.
Development of evidence-based guidance for effective interventions.

Main Results:

Ocean pollution is widespread, worsening, and poorly controlled, originating primarily from land-based sources.
Pollutants include plastics, toxic metals (e.g., mercury), chemicals, and agricultural runoff, impacting marine ecosystems and human health through contaminated seafood and direct exposure.
Health impacts range from developmental issues in children to cardiovascular disease, cancer, and infectious diseases, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations.

Conclusions:

Ocean pollution is a complex, global problem with severe consequences for ecosystems and human health.
Prevention through data-driven strategies, policy, and enforcement is feasible and offers significant economic and health benefits.
International cooperation and targeted interventions, such as reducing plastic waste and mercury, are essential for safeguarding marine and human health.