Environmental and Occupational Health: Emerging Hazards and Preventive Paradigms

Drawing on recent epidemiological and toxicological evidence, this chapter examines the health impacts of environmental hazards including air pollution, chemical exposures, climate-related stressors, and emerging contaminants such as microplastics and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. It reviews occupational health prevention frameworks and evaluates the effectiveness of regulatory, engineering, and clinical interventions in reducing occupational disease burden. The chapter also addresses the disproportionate environmental health burden experienced by vulnerable and marginalized communities.