HJBR Jul/Aug 2024

HEALTHCARE JOURNAL OF BATON ROUGE I  JUL / AUG 2024 43 For weekly eNews updates and to read the journal online, visit HealthcareJournalBR.com Increased Health Risks Elevated Cancer Risk: The study found that a significant portion of the measured EtO levels in the region exceeded the thresholds associ- ated with increased cancer risks. For residents, this means a heightened long-term risk of devel- oping cancer, particularly types such as leukemia, myeloma, lymphoma, and breast cancer. Chronic Exposure: Continuous exposure to even low levels of EtO, a known human carcino- gen, poses serious health risks. The presence of EtO plumes far from emission sources indicates widespread contamination, increasing the poten- tial exposure for a large number of residents. Environmental Justice Concerns Disproportionate Impact: The region, colloqui- ally known as “Cancer Alley,” is predominantly populated by marginalized communities, includ- ing impoverished and Black neighborhoods. The elevated EtO levels add to the existing burden of industrial pollution that disproportionately affects these communities, raising significant environ- mental justice issues. Inequity in Health Outcomes: Higher cancer incidence rates and other health issues related to industrial pollution in the area underscore the inequities in environmental health outcomes. The study’s findings highlight the need for targeted interventions and stricter regulatory measures to protect these vulnerable populations. Regulatory and Policy Implications Need for Stricter Regulations: The study sug- gests that current EPA estimates may underesti- mate the actual EtO concentrations and associ- ated risks. This calls for a reevaluation of existing regulations and the implementation of stricter controls on EtO emissions to mitigate health risks. Enhanced Monitoring: The successful use of high-resolution mobile monitoring in this study demonstrates the need for more widespread and regular monitoring of air toxics. Such efforts can provide more accurate data for assessing public health risks and informing policy decisions. Community Awareness and Advocacy Increased Awareness: The findings can help raise awareness among residents and local advocacy groups about the specific health risks associated with EtO exposure. This knowledge empowers communities to demand better reg- ulatory protections and environmental health interventions. Support for Legal and Advocacy Efforts: The data provides concrete evidence that can support ongoing legal battles and advocacy efforts aimed at reducing industrial emissions and protecting community health. For instance, it can strengthen cases against new industrial facilities that would contribute to further pollution in the area. Long-term Health Monitoring Health Surveillance: There is a need for ongo- ing health surveillance and studies to monitor the long-term health outcomes of residents. This can help in understanding the full impact of EtO exposure and other pollutants, guiding pub- lic health interventions and resource allocation. In summary, the study’s findings underline the critical need for enhanced regulatory measures, better environmental monitoring, and targeted health interventions to protect the residents of Cancer Alley from the harmful effects of ethylene oxide and other industrial pollutants. NewCardiovascular Horizons Conference Brings Nearly 1,400 to NewOrleans The 25th annual New Cardiovascular Horizons (NCVH) conference brought 1,395 attendees from across the globe to New Orleans to collab- orate and share education on the diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular disease, particularly peripheral vascular disease. The conference was held May 28-31 at The Roosevelt Hotel with the goal of improving cardiovascular care and treat- ment across the country. Founded by Craig M. Walker, MD, this multi- disciplinary, accredited conference featured more than 15 live cases from around the world, 170+ faculty and 50+ exhibitors. Highlights included the premier Fellows course, the Business of Med- icine sessions, the “Meet the Titans” networking reception, eight keynote presentations on trend- ing topics, family practice and wound care ses- sions, and a 25th silver anniversary celebration at the Orpheum Theater! With eight co-chairmen and 21 course directors, the conference lineup offered up to 25 continu- ing education credits for physicians of all special- ties, as well as nurse practitioners, physician assis- tants, nurses, cath lab technicians, and healthcare professionals. This year also featured more time for debate discussions among the panel and attendees. “More than 27 million Americans ages 45 and older have peripheral artery disease, yet the over- whelming majority of patients with PAD are undi- agnosed and asymptomatic,” said Walker. “We must do a better job in diagnosing and treating these patients, not only to improve quality of life but to save limbs, reduce mortality and lower risk of major cardiovascular events.” Upcoming one-day regional meetings are scheduled in Atlantic City, Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, Lafayette, Chicago, St. Louis, and Nash- ville. Registration is open for the regional meet- ings, and well as the NCVH 26th Annual Con- ference May 27-30, 2025 in New Orleans. Learn more at www.ncvh.org . n New Cardiovascular Horizons Conference Brings Nearly 1,400 to New Orleans