United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Office of Children's Health
Protection
Washington, DC 20460
EPA-100-R-00-0018
August 2000
www.epa.gov
1EPA
The EPA Children's
Environmental Health
Yearbook Supplement
"Ensuring our children a safe,
healthy environment is of
paramount importance, and we
will do it with strong actions,
guided by sound science."
—Vice President Al Gore
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Office of Children's Health Protection
2 Printed on paper that contains at least 30 percent postconsumer recovered fiber.
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EPA-100-R-00-0018 The EPA Children's Environmental Health Yearbook Supplement
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EPA-100-R-00-0018
August 2000
www.epa.gov
The EPA Children's Environmental Health
Yearbook Supplement
United States Environmental Protection Agency
Office of Children's Health Protection, MC 1107
Washington, DC 20460-0001
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The EPA Children's Environmental Health Yearbook Supplement
Contents
Chapter 1 Introduction 6
Purpose of this Supplement 7
Children's Environmental Health Protection: Highlights of EPA's Recent
National Accomplishments 7
Centers of Excellence in Children's Environmental Health Research 7
Children's Environmental Health and Safety Inventory of Research 10
Institutionalizing Children's Health Protection in EPA's Rule Making 10
Federal Advisory Committee on Protection of Children's
Environmental Health 10
Reviewing Existing Regulations and Standards 11
Workshop on Valuing Children's Health Effects 11
Child Health Champion Campaign 11
Incorporating Children's Environmental Health Into Youth-Based
Organizations 14
Targeting Criminal Violations that Threaten the Health and Safety
of Children 15
State Profiles - Children's Environmental Health 15
Promoting Children's Environmental Health with Pediatric
Chief Residents 15
Action to Eliminate Major Uses of the Pesticide Dursban to Protect
Children and Public Health 15
Tips to Protect Children from Environmental Threats 16
References 18
Chapter 2 Asthma and Other Respiratory Effects 20
Improving Indoor Air Quality 20
Improving Outdoor Air Quality 22
EPA Projects on Asthma and Other Respiratory Effects 23
Indoor Air Quality Tools for Schools 23
Environmental Tobacco Smoke (Secondhand Smoke) 29
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Indoor Air General Outreach and Interventions 33
Research on Indoor Air Quality and Asthma and Other Respiratory
Illness Among Children 45
Outdoor Air Quality 51
Research on Outdoor Air Quality and Asthma and Other
Respiratory Illness Among Children 52
References 55
Chapter 3 Childhood Cancer 56
EPA Projects Related to Cancer 57
Radon 57
Asbestos 58
Ultraviolet (UV) Light 59
Research on Childhood Cancer 61
References 63
Chapter 4 Developmental and Neurological Toxicity 64
EPA Projects on Developmental and Neurological Toxicity 65
Lead 65
Endocrine Disrupters 86
PCBs 86
Mercury 87
Other Research 88
References 93
Chapter 5 Health Effects of Pesticides 94
EPA Projects on Health Effects of Pesticides 95
Strengthened Standards and Better Public Information 95
Support for Integrated Pest Management 98
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The EPA Children's Environmental Health Yearbook Supplement
Expanded Enforcement Efforts 100
Understanding Risks to Children's Health 102
References Ill
Chapter 6 Potential Risks from Contaminated Water 112
EPA Projects on Contaminants in Water and Fish 113
Contaminants in Water 113
Contaminants in Fish 118
References 119
Chapter 7 Predicting Health Risks to Children 120
EPA Projects to Improve Risk Assessment 121
Water 121
Hazardous Waste 122
Exposure 126
Cumulative Risk 134
Chapter 8 Protecting Children Worldwide 136
EPA International Projects 137
Asthma and Other Respiratory Effects 137
Developmental and Neurological Toxicity 139
Health Effects of Pesticides 141
Potential Risks from Contaminated Water 142
Chapter 9 Environmental Education Related to Children's Health 144
EPA Environmental Education Projects 144
Health Care Providers 144
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Pediatric Centers 145
Other Environmental Education Projects 146
Chapter 10 Enhanced Community Right-to-Know 158
EPA Community Right-to-Know Activities 159
Chapter 11 Children's Health Resources 162
Contacting EPA 162
EPA Headquarters 162
EPA Regions and Regional Children's Environmental Health
Coordinators 163
Obtaining EPA Publications 169
EPA Materials, Tools, and Internet Resources Related to
Children's Health 171
Inventory of Children's Health Research Projects 171
Asthma and Other Respiratory Effects 171
Childhood Cancer 179
Developmental and Neurological Toxicity 185
Health Effects of Pesticides 191
Potential Risks from Contaminated Water 195
International Activities 202
Environmental Education 202
Enhanced Community Right-to-Know 207
Other Federal Agencies with Programs Related to
Children's Environmental Health 209
Index: EPA Program Offices and EPA Regions 211
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The EPA Children's Environmental Health Yearbook Supplement
Introduction
Through their environments, children are exposed to a wide variety of substances
that can affect their health. Environmental risks are a potential concern for children
in all geographic areas and from all walks of life. For example:
• Poor indoor and outdoor air quality is linked with an increased risk of
respiratory illnesses, especially asthma, in children.(1)
• Nearly 12,400 children and adolescents under the age of 20 are diagnosed with
cancer each year in the United States. Approximately 2,300 children and adoles-
cents die of cancer each year.(2) Brain tumors and leukemia, the most prevalent
forms of the disease in children, have been linked with pesticide use in and
around the home.(3,4,5,6,7)
• Lead, a heavy metal that can harm a child's brain, kidneys, and other systems,
remains one of the most pervasive developmental toxic substances in
America.(8,9)
• Children and women of childbearing age may be at increased risk, compared to
other groups, from exposure to contaminated fish and disease-causing organ-
isms in sewage-contaminated water. (10)
• In recent decades, about 50,000 synthetic chemicals have been produced in the
United States, and many of these substances have dispersed into the environ-
ment.^)
Children may have a special vulnerability to certain toxic substances, for a variety
of reasons. Pound for pound of body weight, children breathe more air, drink more
water, and eat more food than adults. In addition, their behavior patterns, such as
playing close to the ground and engaging in hand-to-mouth activities, can increase
their exposure to potential toxic substances in the environment. Damage to develop-
ing organ systems may carry lifelong consequences.(12,13)
Protecting children's health against environmental threats is among the Clinton
administration's highest priorities. In April 1997, President Clinton signed the
Executive Order on the Protection of Children from Environmental Health Risks
and Safety Risks. This Executive Order requires all federal agencies to assign a high
priority to addressing health and safety risks to children, coordinate research priori-
ties on children's health, and ensure that their standards take into account special
risks to children.
In May 1997, EPA Administrator Carol M. Browner established the Office of
Children's Health Protection (OCHP) to support the Agency as it implements the
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President's Executive Order, as well as EPA's National Agenda to Protect
Children's Health from Environmental Threats. The mission of OCHP is to make
the protection of children's health a fundamental goal of public health and environ-
mental protection in the United States.
Purpose of this Supplement
In June 1998, EPA published The EPA Children's Environmental Health Yearbook,
a compilation of EPA (Headquarters and Regional Office) activities on children's
health. The document provides information to the public and serves as a tool to
identify the Agency's work in children's health protection. The Yearbook includes
sections on asthma and other respiratory effects, childhood cancer, developmental
and neurological toxicity, health effects of pesticides, and potential risks from
contaminated surface water and ground water. Additional chapters describe
improvements in predicting health risks to children, highlight international activities
to protect children, identify educational programs addressing issues of children's
health, and describe EPA's expansion of individuals' and families' right to know
about environmental hazards. The final section directs readers to additional EPA
resources for more information.
Since the Yearbook's publication, EPA has undertaken a number of new initiatives
and many additional projects focused on protecting children's health from environ-
mental risks. This Supplement provides a summary of new projects and updates to
some ongoing projects already described in the Yearbook. It also includes a
complete, updated list of Children's Health Resources for further information.
Children's Environmental Health Protection:
Highlights of EPA's Recent National Accomplishments
Centers of Excellence in Children's Environmental Health Research
On October 10, 1998, the Vice President announced the establishment of eight
research centers dedicated solely to the study of children's environmental health
hazards. A strong feature of these centers is the combination of clinical research
and community interventions. The centers are jointly funded by EPA and the
Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS).
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University of Southern California, Department of Preventive Medicine
Los Angeles, California
The University of Southern California Department of Environmental Health is
investigating the relationship of secondhand tobacco smoke and other environmen-
tal health threats to the development of asthma in children. In partnership with
Concerned Citizens for Central Los Angeles, Communities for a Better
Environment, and Mothers of East Los Angeles, the Center is conducting research
in Los Angeles communities to develop tools for health and environmental officials
to better protect children's health.
University of Iowa, College of Medicine
Iowa City, Iowa
The College of Medicine at the University of Iowa is investigating respiratory
illness in children from rural communities. Together with the Keokuk County Rural
Health Study, researchers are examining causes of asthma in children living in rural
Keokuk County and developing a multi-component approach for reducing levels of
respiratory illness among children in rural areas.
University of Michigan, School of Public Health
Ann Arbor, Michigan
The University of Michigan School of Public Health is studying environmental
factors that contribute to pediatric asthma. Working with the Kettering/Butzel
Health Initiative, Detroit Health Department, Warren/Conner Development
Coalition, Butzel Family Center, Latino Family Services, and United Community
Housing Coalition, researchers are conducting assessments of asthmatic children in
Detroit and using findings to develop initiatives to reduce asthma among inner city
children.
Johns Hopkins University, School of Medicine
Baltimore, Maryland
The Johns Hopkins University Hospital School of Medicine is examining the role of
air pollutants, such as particulate matter, environmental tobacco smoke, and ozone,
in rising asthma rates among inner city children. By studying students in Baltimore
City Schools, researchers will determine how exposures to environmental pollutants
and allergens relate to asthma and will develop new ways to protect children from
environmental health risks.
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University of California at Berkeley, School of Public Health
Berkeley, California
The School of Public Health at the University of California at Berkeley is evaluat-
ing the impact of pesticide exposure on children's growth and development.
Working with La Clinica de Saluid del Valle de Salinas and La Natividad Medical
Center, the school is studying the effects of pesticide exposure in children of the
agricultural community of Salinas, California, and developing methods to protect
children from health risks associated with pesticides.
University of Washington, Department of Environmental Health
Seattle, Washington
The University of Washington Department of Environmental Health is conducting
research on the special vulnerability of children to health risks from pesticides. In
conjunction with the Washington State Migrant Council, this Center is implement-
ing research and intervention projects among children of farm workers in the state's
Yakima Valley to provide local, state, and federal officials with new tools and
approaches for improving the health of children in agricultural regions across the
nation.
Mount Sinai School of Medicine
New York, New York
The Mount Sinai School of Medicine is undertaking research to identify, character-
ize, and prevent developmental effects among inner city children resulting from
exposures to pollutants that occur in their diets and homes. In cooperation with
East Harlem Community Health Committee and the Boriken Neighborhood Health
Center, Mount Sinai is developing both direct and indirect methods for reducing
household exposures to pollutants and will attempt to apply these methods broadly
across East Harlem.
Columbia University, School of Public Health
New York, New York
The Columbia University School of Public Health is investigating the relationship
between environmental pollutants, such as paniculate matter and environmental
tobacco smoke, and the incidence of asthma among inner city children. Working in
partnership with West Harlem Environmental Action, Inc. and the New York State
Department of Health, this Center is developing and evaluating a community-wide
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intervention to increase the awareness of environmental hazards and educate
community members to prevent and reduce them.
Information on the Centers can be found on the Internet at http://www.epa.gov/chil-
dren/three.htm, or contact Chris Saint, Office of Research and Development,
202-564-6909.
Children's Environmental Health and Safety Inventory of Research
The Children's Environmental Health and Safety Inventory of Research
(CHEHSIR) is a database of federally funded or sponsored research on environmen-
tal health risks and/or safety risks that may uniquely or disproportionately affect
children. The database was created as an interagency effort under the President's
Task Force on Environmental Health and Safety Risks co-chaired by EPA and
DHHS. The inventory is available to all federal agencies, researchers, and the public
through the Internet at http://www.epa.gov/chehsir. The current database contains
information from six departments/agencies and represents 532 research projects.
The entire database will be moved to the National Library of Medicine.
Institutionalizing Children's Health Protection in EPA's Rule Making
In November 1998, EPA published a final Guidance for Rule Writers to help them
comply with Executive Order 13045, "Protection of Children from Environmental
Health Risks and Safety Risks." This Guidance includes advice to EPA risk asses-
sors and managers who are developing regulatory standards that are specifically
targeted at pregnant women, infants, and children. In developing standards, EPA
now consistently seeks out data on hazards, exposures, and dose-response functions
that may indicate disproportionate risks to children.
Federal Advisory Committee on Protection of Children's
Environmental Health
EPA has established a balanced, broad-based external Advisory Committee, char-
tered under the Federal Advisory Committee Act, on children's environmental
health. This Committee includes participants from industry, pediatric medicine,
science/academia, nursing, environmental organizations, citizen organizations,
federal, state/local/tribal government, environmental justice communities, communi-
ty organizations, economists, and citizens-at-large. The Committee is EPA's way of
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obtaining outside expert advice from the perspective of children's health protection on a
variety of issues, including evaluation of EPA standards regarding children's health
protection from environmental risks, economic benefits analysis, communications and
outreach, and science. The full Committee has convened nine times since December
1997.
Reviewing Existing Regulations and Standards
OCHP, together with the EPA's program offices and the Office of General Counsel, and
in response to public comments and recommendations of the Children's Health
Protection Advisory Committee, identified eight regulations and regulatory areas for
review. These were published in the February 3, 1999, Federal Register. EPA is
currently reviewing the following regulations:
• Chloralkali plants national emission standard for hazardous air pollutants.
• Organophosphate pesticides tolerances for methyl parathion, chlorpyrifos, and
dimethoate.
• Atrazine tolerance and maximum contaminant level.
• Farm worker protection standard.
Workshop on Valuing Children's Health Effects
In March 1999, EPA and the National Science Foundation sponsored a workshop on
valuing children's health effects. The workshop brought together leading economists to
share and discuss ideas on this issue. Currently there is little information on how to
value children's health when conducting benefit/cost analyses. In preparation for the
workshop, EPA commissioned several research papers. These papers, along with the
information generated at the workshop, will be used to develop a Children's Health
Valuation Handbook.
Child Health Champion Campaign
On May 21, 1998, the First Lady announced a new EPA pilot program, the Child
Health Champion Campaign, designed to empower local citizens and communities to
protect their children from environmental health threats. Eleven communities are
involved in the Campaign pilot. Each community assessed and prioritized potential
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environmental hazards to children, set community-specific goals for selected
hazards, and established action plans to meet each of the goals. The communities
are now in the implementation phase of the program. A national evaluation of the
pilot is being conducted.
Manchester, New Hampshire (EPA Region 1)
Through the Child Health Champion program, local organizations in this communi-
ty are promoting awareness of several key issues affecting children's health,
including lead poisoning, asthma, and the dangers of secondhand smoke. One
grantee, the Way Home, is conducting home visits to identify children at risk for
lead poisoning and asthma and to provide education on preventive measures. (EPA
contacts: Alice Kaufman, 617-918-1064, orPatHamlin, 617-918-1584)
Ironbound Section, Newark, New Jersey (EPA Region 2)
The Ironbound Community Corporation (ICC) coordinates Region 2's Child Health
Champion project, which focuses on the environmental causes of asthma. ICC has
recruited and trained residents to become "Asthma Busters," who are conducting
education in the community on asthma. Other education and outreach efforts,
including an Asthma Information and Referral Service, also are under way. (EPA
contacts: Rachel Chaput, 212-637-4001, or Terry Ippolito, 212-637-3671)
Anacostia Section, Washington, DC (EPA Region 3)
This Region's Community Team is focusing on indoor air pollutants as triggers for
asthma and other illnesses. Several outreach tools—children's workbook, children's
television program, and interactive website—are being designed to reach children
and parents through schools and a public housing project. (EPA contacts: Gail
Tindal, 215-814-2069, or Dan Welker, 215-814-2744)
Prichard, Alabama (EPA Region 4)
The Prichard, Alabama, Community Team selected childhood asthma and lead
poisoning as the environmental health hazards of greatest concern. The team has
developed partnerships with the elementary schools for this initiative. A database on
the effects of asthma is being compiled from the schools and local health care
providers. Interventions include the establishment of a children's environmental
health repository and hotline, implementation of the Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) Tools
for Schools program in all public and private schools, coordinating community inte-
grated pest management (IPM) programs, establishing satellite learning centers with
programs addressing children's environmental health hazards, and conducting
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asthma screening, lead poisoning testing, and child health education activities. (EPA
contacts: Wayne Garfinkel, 404-562-8982, or Al Hanke, 404-562-8954)
Near South/North Side Sections, Milwaukee, Wisconsin (EPA Region 5)
The Milwaukee Team is focusing on asthma and indoor air quality in homes and
schools. A variety of activities are planned or under way, including distribution of
an Asthma Care Plan, indoor air quality assessments in schools, an Asthma in the
Air video, home visits, and an Awesome Asthma School Days program. (EPA
contacts: Jeanette Marrero, 312-886-6543, or Afif Marouf, 312-353-5550)
Cherokee Nation, Talequah, Oklahoma (EPA Region 6)
This team is tackling the problem of contaminated drinking water, a problem that
affects two-thirds of the drinking water sources tested. The Cherokee Nation has
set a goal of providing clean drinking water to approximately 1,000 children under
the age of 16 (10 priority area water systems) within 3 years. Activities include
conducting public education and outreach as well as taking steps to prevent bacteri-
al contamination of drinking water. (EPA contacts: Evelyn Daniels, 214-665-7543,
or Steffanie Crossland, 214-665-6684)
New Madrid County, Missouri (EPA Region 7)
The New Madrid County Tri-Town Project has identified three priorities for
protecting children's health: lead, asthma/allergies, and water. Community leaders
presented project goals at a well-attended kick-off meeting, and resource centers are
being established in each of these communities. (EPA contact: Althea Moses, 913-
551-7649)
Chippewa Cree Tribe, Rocky Boy's Reservation, Montana (EPA Region 8)
The Chippewa Cree Child Health Champion Team is conducting a wide variety of
activities on children's health issues. Examples include blood-lead testing through
local schools; presentations for Earth Day on such subjects as lead, water pollution,
dam safely, and pesticides; and educational activities on environmental health
hazards at the annual Rocky Boy Pow-Wow. (EPA contact: Jennifer Wintersteen,
406-441-1130)
Nogales, Arizona (EPA Region 9)
In the City of Nogales, located on the U.S.-Mexico border, Region 9 established a
Child Health Champion Community Team composed of representatives from
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community organizations, government agencies, businesses, and citizen groups. The
project focuses on controlling indoor air quality, reducing exposure to outdoor air
on poor air quality days, reducing the number of visits to the school nurse due to
upper respiratory illness, and reducing particulate matter by working with business-
es to pave dirt areas. (EPA contact: Lorena Lopez, 619-235-4768).
East Side/Pico Section, Los Angeles, California (EPA Region 9)
The Los Angeles Child Health Champion (CHC) pilot, "KICK Asthma L. A." (Keep
Improving Control of Kids' Asthma L.A.), is focused on children in East Los
Angeles, a mostly Hispanic, economically disadvantaged community. The
Community Team formed a collaborative partnership among local government
agencies, public health organizations, and community-based organizations to KICK
asthma and build community capacity for addressing problems of asthma and creat-
ing a model program for children's asthma education. As a direct result of the
program, the community hopes to decrease school absenteeism due to asthma-
related illness, increase adoption of healthy home measures to decrease asthma
triggers, and increase community awareness about asthma. (EPA contact: Clarice
Gaylord, 619-235-4767).
Toppenish, Washington (EPA Region 10)
The Yakima Valley Farm Workers Clinic is focusing on air pollution triggers of
asthma in children under age 5. Interventions include home visits, training of child-
care providers, support groups for parents, and broad-based community education.
(EPA contact: Dan Robinson, 509-575-5845)
Incorporating Children's Environmental Health Into Youth-Based
Organizations
EPA is working with the Academy for Educational Development to incorporate
children's environmental health into the fabric of youth-based organizations. Five
national organizations, representing thousands of children and youth, have agreed to
participate. An event showcasing the efforts of these groups is planned for
September 2000. In addition, EPA is working with the Groundwater Foundation to
hold a Youth Summit of Environmental Health in November 2000. (EPA contact:
Ted Coopwood, 202-260-3410).
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Targeting Criminal Violations that Threaten the Health and Safety
of Children
Through the Children First Initiative, EPA's Criminal Investigation Division (CID)
has expanded its response to the significant health threats that children continue to
face from environmental hazards. This initiative identifies criminal environmental
violations in which children are adversely affected or put at undue risk. At the end
of fiscal year 1999, the number of Children First cases increased to 143 criminal
investigations nationwide. This increase can be linked to CID's continuous pursuit
of these violators and continuing educational efforts among their partners in state
and local law enforcement. Individual criminal fines totaling $271,189; restitution
totaling $389,998; 97 years of imprisonment; and 86.9 years of probation have been
imposed on 75 individual defendants. Seventeen corporate defendants have been
sentenced to pay a total of $22,783,000 in criminal fines; $4,150,000 in restitution;
and 23 years of probation.
State Profiles - Children's Environmental Health
The Association of State and Territorial Health Officials is working in partnership
with the Environmental Council of the States to profile state children's environmen-
tal health data and activities. The goal of the project is to highlight successful efforts
to reduce hazards to children, provide state-by-state data on specific children's envi-
ronmental health issues, and identify gaps in information. (EPA contact: Liz
Blackburn, 202-260-7935).
Promoting Children's Environmental Health With Pediatric Chief
Residents
EPA is supporting an educational session facilitated by the American Academy of
Pediatrics to heighten awareness of pediatric environmental health issues in residen-
cy training programs. The session targets Chief Pediatric Residents because of their
leadership in those programs. (EPA contact: Liz Blackburn, 202-260-7935).
Action to Eliminate Major Uses of the Pesticide Dursban to Protect
Children and Public Health
In June 2000, the EPA and the manufacturer of Dursban agreed to eliminate this
pesticide for nearly all household purposes. Dursban, also known as chlorpyrifos, is
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the most widely used household pesticide product in the United States. Chlorpyrifos
belongs to a family of pesticides called organophosphates which can affect the
nervous system. The agreement will:
• Stop production of and phase out all home, lawn, and garden uses.
• Stop production of and phase out the vast majority of termite-control uses.
• Significantly lower allowable pesticide residues on several foods regularly eaten
by children.
EPA took this action under the Food Quality Protection Act (FQPA), which was
passed unanimously by Congress in 1996. The FQPA requires a systematic review
of all pesticides to ensure that they meet the tough new safety standards which, for
the first time, must be protective of children, who are among the most vulnerable to
adverse health effects from pesticide residues.
Tips to Protect Children from Environmental Threats
Because there are many things that parents and other caregivers can do to protect
children from environmental risks, EPA developed relatively easy-to-follow, effec-
tive "tips," which are being widely distributed. Tips are available on both magnets
and flyers and in English and Spanish. The National Safely Council produced a
half-hour television program based on the tips which aired on Bravo and CNBC
and is now available on video. The television program was viewed by an estimated
2 million people. A Spanish-language radio series based on the tips is being broad-
cast and will reach an estimated 75 percent of the U.S. Latino population.
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Protect Children from
Environmental Threats
Help children breathe easier
Help children breathe easier
• Don't smoke or let others smoke in your home or car
• Keep your home as clean as possible. Dust, mold, certain household pests, secondhand smoke,
and pet dander can trigger asthma attacks and allergies.
• Limit outdoor activity when air pollution is bad such as on ozone alert days.
Protect children from lead poisoning
• Wash children's hands before they eat and wash bottles, pacifiers, and toys often
• Wash floors and windows sills to protect kids from dust and peeling paint contaminated with
lead - especially in older homes
• Run the cold water for 30 seconds to flush lead from pipes
• Get kids tested for lead - check with your doctor
• Test your home for lead paint hazards if it was built before 1978
Protect children from carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning
• Have fuel-burning appliances, furnace flues and chimneys checked once a year
• Never use gas ovens or burners for heat and never use barbeques/gnlls indoors or in the
garage
• Never sleep in rooms with unvented gas or kerosene space heaters
• Don't run cars or lawnmowers in the garage
• Install a UL approved CO detector in sleeping areas
Keep pesticides and other toxic chemicals away from
children
• Put food and trash away in closed containers to keep pests from coming into your home
• Don't use pesticides if you don't have to - look for alternatives
• Read product labels and follow directions
• Use bait & traps instead of bug sprays when you can and place the bait & traps where kids
can't get them
• Store where kids can't reach them and never put in other containers that kids can mistake for
food or drink
• Keep children, toys & pets away when using pesticides and don't let them play in fields,
orchards and gardens after pesticides have been used.
• Wash fruits and vegetables under running water before eating - peel them when possible
Protect children from too much sun
• Have them wear hats, sunglasses, and protective clothing
• Use sunscreen on kids over 6 months and keep infants out of the sun
• Keep them out of the mid-day sun - the sun is most intense between 10 and 4
Safeguard them from high levels of radon
• Test your home for radon with a home test kit
• Fix your home if your radon level is 4 pCi/L or higher. If you need help call your state radon
office or 1-800-644-6999
Protect children from contaminated fish and polluted water
• Call the local or state health department to learn about any local advisories for limiting the
amount of fish to be eaten or beach closing
• Take used motor oil to a recycling center and properly dispose of toxic household chemicals
• Find out what's in your local drinking water - call your local water system for your
annual drinking water quality report or, if you have a private home drinking water well,
Get involved
Call toll free 1-877-590-KIDS for more information or check out EPA's
Web site at www.TLP.A-.gQV/children
EPA Office of Children's Health Protection
EPA/100/F-00/008
r
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References
1. Bates, D.V. 1995. The Effects of Air Pollution on Children. Environmental
Health Perspectives. Volume 103 (Supplement B), Pages 49-53.
2. National Institutes of Health. September 1999. Cancer Incidence and Survival
among Children and Adolescents: United States SEER Program 1975-1995.
Nffl Publication Number 99-4649.
3. NCI. 1997. SEER Cancer Statistics Review, 1973-1994. U.S. Department of
Health and Human Services, National Cancer Institute. NIH Publication
Number 97-2789, Page 457.
4. Devesa, S.S., WJ. Blot, B.A. Miller, R.E. Tarove, and J.F. Fraumeni, Jr. 1995.
Recent Cancer Trends in the United States. Journal: National Cancer Institute.
Volume 87, Pages 175-182.
5. David, J.R., R.C. Browonson, R. Garcia, B.J. Bentz, and A. Turner. 1993.
Family Pesticide Use and Childhood Brain Cancer. Archive of Environmental
Contamination and Toxicology. Volume 24, Pages 87-92.
6. Gold, E., L. Gordis, J. Tonascia, and M. Szklo. 1979. Risk Factors for Brain
Tumors in Children. American Journal of Epidemiology. Volume 109, Pages
309-319.
7. Olshan, A.F., N.E. Breslow, J.M. Falletta, S. Grufferman, T Pendergrass, L.L.
Waskerwitz, W.G. Woods, T.J. Vietti, and G.D. Hammond. 1993. Risk Factors
for Wilm's Tumor: Report from the National Wilm's Tumor Study. Cancer.
Volume 72, Pages 938-944.
8. ATSDR. 1997. Healthy Children—Toxic Environments. Report of the Child
Health Workgroup. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public
Health Service, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry.
9. CDC. 1997. Update: Blood Lead Levels—United States, 1991-1994.
Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. Volume 46, Number 7, Pages 141-
145.
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10. EPA. 1997. Should I Eat the Fish I Catch? Publication Number EPA 823-B-
97-009. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
11. SOCMA. Undated. Fact Sheet: The Batch Chemical Industry. Washington,
DC: Synthetic Organic Chemical Manufacturers Association.
12. NRC. 1993. Pesticides in the Diets of Infants and Children. National Research
Council. Washington, DC: National Academy Press.
13. ILSI. 1992. Similarities and Differences between Children and Adults:
Implications for Risk Assessment. International Life Sciences Institute.
Washington, DC: ILSI Press.
Introduction
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Asthma and Other
Respiratory Effects
Asthma, a serious lung disease, is the leading chronic illness among children in the
United States. The number of children with asthma in the United States has more
than doubled in the past two decades, from 2.3 million in 1980 to an estimated 5
million in 1998. The number of deaths attributed to asthma in children 18 and under
also has increased, from 84 in 1977 to 280 in 1995. Minority children experience a
disproportionately high impact from asthma. Asthma accounts for 10 million lost
school days a year. In 1998, the cost of asthma to the U.S. economy was estimated
to be $11.3 billion, accounting for about 1 percent of all health care expenditures in
the United States.(l,2,3,4,5,6)
Asthma is a narrowing of airways in the lungs that produces difficulty in breathing
and can severely restrict the ability of a child to live a normal life. Poor indoor and
outdoor air quality has been linked with asthma symptoms as well as with other
respiratory problems, such as an increased frequency of respiratory infections,
bronchitis, and pneumonia in children.(S) There is substantial evidence that environ-
mental exposures (including cigarette smoke, smog, and allergens, such as pollens,
dust mites, mold, and cockroaches) can trigger asthma attacks in children who have
a genetic or acquired predisposition to the disease.(7)
In 1999, the President's Task Force on Environmental Health Risks and Safety
Risks to Children released a comprehensive national strategy (Asthma and the
Environment: A Strategy to Protect Children, http://www.epa.gov/children/asthma)
to reverse the increasing rates of asthma among U.S. children. EPA played a leader-
ship role in developing the strategy. The Agency is developing a program to combat
the rising prevalence of asthma in the United States, with a focus on improving
indoor and outdoor air quality. Over the next several years, the Agency will expand
its research and public information initiatives to address indoor and outdoor asthma
triggers. Some of these initiatives are described below.
Improving Indoor Air Quality
Avoidance of asthma triggers in the environment, along with proper medical
management and self-monitoring of symptoms, can substantially reduce the
frequency and severity of asthma attacks. EPA's Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) program
is focused on reducing the exposure of asthmatics—especially children with asth-
ma—to indoor asthma triggers in homes, schools, and childcare facilities through a
multi-faceted program that emphasizes public education and outreach, training, and
extensive partnerships with the public and private sectors.
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Goals of the Asthma and the Environment Strategy
By the year 2005, the number of households in which children are regularly exposed to secondhand
smoke will be reduced to 15 percent (compared to 29 percent in 1994).
By the year 2010, asthma hospitalization rates in children will have fallen to no more than 10 hospital -
izations per 10,000 people (compared to 50 for children 0 to 4 years old and 18 for children 5 to 14
years old in 1992-1994).
By the year 2010, emergency department visits will be reduced to no more than 46 per 10,000 people
(compared to 121 for children 0 to 4 years old and 81 for children 5 to 14 years old in 1992-1994).
By the year 2010, no more than 10 percent of children with asthma will experience activity limitations
(compared to 22 percent for the overall population in 1992-1994).
To establish a sound scientific basis for its indoor environments asthma program,
EPA requested that the Institute of Medicine of the National Academy of Sciences
conduct a comprehensive assessment of the relationship between indoor air pollu-
tion and asthma. Released in January 2000, Clearing the Air: Asthma and Indoor
Air Exposures confirms the importance of addressing indoor environmental triggers
as part of a comprehensive asthma management program.
EPA works to educate parents, health care professionals, school administrators,
facility managers, and many other audiences about practical steps they can take to
improve the indoor environments where children spend time. A new national media
campaign, educational materials, such as the new brochure, Clear Your Home of
Asthma Triggers: Your Children Will Breathe Easier, a comprehensive new asthma
Web site (http://www.epa.gov/iaq/asthma/), and co-sponsorship of major events,
such as Asthma Awareness Day on Capitol Hill help to get the word out. The
cornerstone of EPAs national strategy, however, is a network of more than 30
national partner organizations and more than 1,000 collaborative partner organiza-
tions in communities across the nation.
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Through these partners, EPA continues to promote the IAQ Tools for Schools
program, which empowers schools to prevent and resolve IAQ problems. Of partic-
ular note, EPA is working with the National Association of School Nurses to train
thousands of school nurses in strategies for reducing children's exposures to asthma
triggers and indoor pollutants.
EPA continues to work with the American Lung Association to implement the
Open Airways program for inner city minority children who have higher-than-
average asthma rates. EPA also is collaborating with partners, such as the DHHS,
the Consumer Federation of America Foundation, the American Medical
Association, and the American Academy of Pediatrics to educate the public about
the dangers posed to children by environmental tobacco smoke (ETS), also known
as secondhand smoke.
EPA has partnered with a number of health organizations to develop interventions
that can reduce exposures to asthma triggers in the indoor environment. The
Agency also is assisting community groups in efforts to publicize effective interven-
tion strategies, especially in the low-income, inner city communities where asthma
is most prevalent. In addition, EPA is conducting various research studies to meas-
ure the effectiveness and benefits of asthma interventions.
Improving Outdoor Air Quality
EPAs efforts to control outdoor air pollution are focused on protecting everyone,
including children, from the harmful effects of ozone, particulate matter, and toxic
substances. The Agency develops standards that set safe limits for the most preva-
lent air pollutants, and works with the states to implement those standards. Recently,
the Clinton administration issued a strengthened air standard for ozone to protect
the health of asthmatics and children and established new standards for fine
airborne particles. The Agency estimates that the new standards will provide new
health protections to 125 million Americans, including 35 million children.
However, in May 1999 a federal appeals court ruled that these standards are uncon-
stitutional. In January 2000 the U.S. Department of Justice filed a petition seeking
Supreme Court review of the decision.
In addition to conducting these regulatory efforts, EPA is studying the impacts of
outdoor air pollutants on the physical development of children and the characteris-
tics of children that make them more susceptible to the effects of air pollution.
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EPA Projects on Asthma and Other Respiratory Effects
Indoor Air Quality Tools for Schools
Title: IAQ Tools for Schools
Description: EPA has developed IAQ Tools for Schools, an easy-to-use guide
intended to empower schools to prevent and resolve IAQ problems
at little or no cost using simple activities and in-house staff. More
than 30,000 IAQ Tools for Schools kits have been distributed nation-
wide since 1996. The program is directed from EPA headquarters
through agreements with a number of associations (see below).
EPAs regional offices have active implementation programs as well.
Partners: National Parent-Teacher Association, American Association of
School Administrators, National Association of City and County
Health Officials, American Lung Association, National Education
Association
Contact: Office of Air and Radiation, Michele Guarneiri, 202-260-9099
Title: Working with Partners to Improve Indoor Air Quality in Schools
• National Education Association
The National Education Association Health Information
Network (NEA fflN) and EPA are supporting NBAs 2.2
million members in improving the management of IAQ in
schools and homes. Through NEA's training program, NEA
members and union liaisons are trained in school IAQ manage-
ment. Trainees and workshop participants are currently
working with school districts and schools to implement EPAs
IAQ Tools for Schools. Contact Office of Air and Radiation,
Jennifer Keller, 202-564-9338.
• American Association of School Administrators
EPA is working with the American Association of School
Administrators (AASA) to enable schools to prevent and
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resolve IAQ problems using the IAQ Tools for Schools Action
Kit. This project includes training courses, IAQ sessions during
workshops and conferences, and articles in newsletters to
educate administrators about IAQ problems and solutions, as
well as how to implement an IAQ program using in-house
school staff. AASA will conduct periodic surveys during the
project to assess the administrators' understanding of IAQ and
how they resolve problems. Contact Office of Air and
Radiation, Paula Selzer, 202-564-9361.
National Parent-Teacher Association
The National Parent-Teacher Association (NPTA) and EPA are
working cooperatively to support the participation of more than
6.5 million NPTA members in the environmental management
of homes, schools, communities, and ecosystems. NPTA's
program has centered around environmental awareness, includ-
ing training NPTA leaders on school indoor air quality, air
pollution, water pollution, drinking water quality, hazardous
materials, emergency planning, radon exposure, pesticides,
solid waste, and lead poisoning. NPTA also publishes Our
World Newsletter and sponsors Earth Week activities and litera-
ture. Contact Office of Air and Radiation, Michele Guarneiri,
202-564-9099.
Urban Schools IAQ Project
The National Association of County and City Health Officials
(NACCHO), working cooperatively with EPA, will offer IAQ
Tools for Schools pilot training courses in low-income urban
communities. The courses are designed to encourage partner-
ships between local environmental justice organizations (or
organizations with similar community concerns) and local
public health and school officials. NACCHO has planned the
training to promote awareness of IAQ problems in schools,
management of IAQ, and strategies for managing asthmatic
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children's exposures to indoor asthma triggers. Contact Office
of Air and Radiation, Laura Kolb, 202-564-9348.
Training School Nurses on IAQ Tools for Schools and Asthma
The National Association of School Nurses (NASN) and EPA
are working together on improving IAQ and addressing asthma
triggers in schools. School nurses across the country have been
trained on IAQ Tools for Schools and are conducting "train the
trainer" workshops in their school districts. NASN also is
developing asthma modules that school nurses can deliver
during staff meetings, PTA meetings, and health classes to
educate school communities about the seriousness of asthma
and environmental triggers. The modules will incorporate IAQ
Tools for Schools information and action items for reducing
exposures to asthma triggers and indoor pollutants. Contact
Office of Air and Radiation, Kim Smith, 202-564-9443.
School Intervention Study
The School Intervention Study will provide a measure of the
effectiveness of IAQ Tools for Schools in improving the
management of school buildings for better IAQ. Success meas-
ures include activities to prevent problems, changes in staff
symptoms and perceptions of indoor air quality, reduced pollu-
tant levels, and improved ventilation systems. Before-and-after
testing is being conducted in several schools and costs will be
monitored over a 1-year period. Results are expected in FY
2000. Contact Office of Air and Radiation, John Girman, 202-
564-9317.
American Lung Association Open Airways
The American Lung Association is promoting EPAs IAQ Tools
for Schools along with their Open Airways curriculum, which
teaches asthmatic elementary school children to manage their
own asthma. The program focuses on inner city children in
areas with higher-than-average asthma rates. The American
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Lung Association is developing an integrated training program
in which 15 master trainers will train 250 other trainers, who
will then train 5,000 local volunteers. Project directors estimate
that this combined program will result in 25,000 children grad-
uating from Open Airways and 1,500 schools fully
implementing the IAQ Tools for Schools guidance. The
program has enhanced asthma management skills of children
and their parents, reducing the frequency of asthma attacks.
Several Regions are translating Open Airways into Spanish.
Additionally, all local American Lung Associations will begin
programs to implement EPA IAQ Tools for Schools in FY 2000.
Contact Office of Air and Radiation, Tracy Enger, 202-564-
9484.
Title: EPA Regional School-Based Programs to Improve Indoor Air
Quality
Region 1: Region 1 and its partners (including Harvard School of Public
Health, Tufts University School of Medicine, Massachusetts Public
Health Association, and the American Lung Association) have spon-
sored numerous workshops introducing the IAQ Tools for Schools
program to various segments of the education community. The New
England Coalitions for Occupational Safety and Health have worked
with schools to assist them in implementing the program; over 60
New England schools are implementing IAQ Tools for Schools.
Contact Eugene Benoit, 617-918-1639, or Mary Beth Smuts, 617-
918-1528.
With EPA funding, staff of the State of Vermont Department of
Health trained a teaching professional representing the pilot supervi-
sory union in basic issues related to indoor air quality and
ventilation. After the training, initial concerns were addressed by the
school at the local level, and an indoor air quality management plan
was developed. The indoor air quality coordinator incorporated the
new knowledge into the supervisory union's health education
curriculum. Contact Kristen Conroy, 617-918-1069.
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Region 4: Region 4 and the University of Tulsa presented 10 1-day workshops
to educate school officials on the IAQ Tools for Schools Action Kit.
(Approximately 1,400 kits were previously distributed to school
officials in the region.) Around 50 school officials attended each
workshop. Contact Henry Slack, 404-562-9143.
EPA funded a pilot project to deliver the American Lung
Association's Open Airways curriculum to children with asthma in a
rural Florida county, while implementing the IAQ Tools for Schools
Action Kit at their school. EPA is also funding an American Lung
Association effort in northern Florida to promote the kit at schools
in a poor, rural county, and to offer Open Airways to children at the
schools. In a separate effort, Region 4 and the University of Tulsa
offered courses in Florida, Georgia, and North Carolina on topics
including biological contaminants, asthma, and allergen control.
Contact Henry Slack, 404-562-9143
Region 5: The Marion County, Illinois, Health Department is working with
schools to implement the IAQ Tools for Schools Action Kit and is
studying the kit's effectiveness. In addition, staff from Region 5 are
providing onsite technical assistance to help schools implement the
kit. Contact Helen Tsiapas or Sheila Batka, 312-886-6053.
The IAQ Tools for Schools program also is being implemented in a
Minnesota school that serves a high percentage of children from
Native American tribes. EPA is conducting IAQ Tools for Schools
overview sessions for tribes in Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Michigan
during 1999 and 2000. EPA also held a 1999 meeting with the
Indian Health Services to discuss children's issues, IAQ Tools for
Schools, and the potential for partnerships between the tribes and
Region 5. Contact Jeanette Marrero, 312-886-6543, or Sheila Batka,
312-886-6053.
The Chicago Health Corps is working to initiate the Clean Air for
Good Health in Schools Campaign within five Chicago public
schools. This project will raise awareness of indoor air quality
among teachers and building maintenance staff and improve the
quality of the indoor environment in schools. The Chicago Health
Corps will initiate an environmental assessment in the schools
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and provide recommendations for revising current maintenance poli-
cies. Contact Jeannette Marrero, 312-886-6543, or Sheila Batka,
312-886-6053.
EPA provided a grant to the Michigan School Indoor Air Coalition,
headed by the American Lung Association of Michigan, to improve
IAQ in Michigan schools. Contact Helen Tsiapas, 312-886-7901, or
Sheila Batka, 312-886-6053.
EPA also provided a grant to the Wisconsin Department of Health
and Family Services to increase awareness and implementation of
energy-efficient and healthful IAQ practices in Wisconsin schools.
Contact Sheila Batka, 312-886-6053, or Julie Magee, 312-886-6063.
Region 7: Region 7 completed IAQ Tools for Schools walk-throughs at schools
in Jefferson City, Missouri; Lincoln, Nebraska; and Liberty,
Missouri, as part of demonstration projects. Representatives
discussed the Tools for Schools program at the Regional IAQ meet-
ing and Regional Tribal Operations Committee Annual meeting, and
hosted a Tribal Tools for Schools workshop/school walk-through in
South Sioux City, Nebraska. The Region also completed presenta-
tions at IAQ Tools for Schools workshops in Lincoln and Omaha,
Nebraska, and at the Kansas Schools Nurses Conference in Wichita,
Kansas; distributed 10 Tools for Schools kits at the Back to School
With New Ideas Seminar; and supplied the Kansas City/St. Joseph
Catholic Diocese with 54 kits for their schools. Finally, Region 7
participated in the IAQ Tools for Schools Stakeholder Meeting in
Washington, DC. Contact Michael Marshall, 913-551-7604.
Region 8: Region 8 is piloting the IAQ Tools for Schools program in several
school districts in Colorado and continues to offer workshops to
school personnel throughout the region. Contact Megan Williams,
303-312-6431.
Region 9: Region 9 is conducting a multi-pronged program to encourage
schools to adopt IAQ Tools for Schools. The Region 9 team has
trained more than 800 school district personnel and is now focusing
on individual pilot schools within selected districts. Partners include
state agencies, educational organizations, and the American Lung
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Association, which has created a pilot "Mentor" program with the
American Industrial Hygiene Association. Contact Barbara Spark,
415-744-1132.
Region 10: Region 10 coordinates and supports the IAQ Tools for Schools
program to conduct training and school walk-throughs in
Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Alaska through small grants to the
Idaho Health Division, the Oregon State University Cooperative
Extension Energy Program, the University of Alaska (Fairbanks)
Cooperative Extension Energy Program, and the Washington State
University Cooperative Extension Energy Program. Each of these
agencies has committed to conducting at least four school walk-
throughs and IAQ Tools for Schools training in each of their states.
Contact Brook Madrone, 206-553-2589.
Environmental Tobacco Smoke (Secondhand Smoke)
Title: Environmental Tobacco Smoke Media Campaign
Description: EPA is conducting a multi-year, national campaign to motivate
parents to keep their homes smoke-free. The first wave of this
campaign includes three products: 60- and 30-second television
spots, 60- and 30-second radio spots, and print public service
announcements (PSAs) of various sizes for newspapers. These prod-
ucts were distributed directly to more than 1,000 television stations,
500 cable stations, 5,400 radio stations, and 1,500 major daily news-
papers. One of the PSAs was the second most frequently aired PSAs
in the country, appearing in 80 percent of U.S. television households
with an unusually high number of prime-time airings. EPA has also
equipped its local and national partners, such as National
Association of City and County Health Officials and American Lung
Association affiliates, as well as a national network of tobacco
control experts, with materials to market the PSAs to media outlets
in their states and communities.
Contact: Office of Air and Radiation, Wendy Kammer, 202-564-9152
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Title: Reducing Exposure to ETS through Child Care Outreach
Description: EPA is implementing training developed by the Pennsylvania
Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP-PA) in at
least five state systems this year. The program trains childcare center
operators on the risks to children from exposure to ETS at home.
The AAP-PA has provided professional credits to 160 providers who
passed an exam and implemented this program, resulting in an esti-
mated 1,920 families who have reduced their children's risk from
ETS.
Partners: American Academy of Pediatrics, Pennsylvania Chapter; National
Resource Center for Health and Safety in Child Care
Contact: Office of Air and Radiation, Alison Freeman, 202-564-9455
Title: Community-Based Pediatrician Outreach
Description: The American Academy of Pediatrics is collaborating with EPA to
promote a secondhand smoke speaker's kit for pediatricians to use in
community-based reduction efforts. The kit includes 35mm slides,
speaker's notes, and other public information materials designed to
communicate the health risks associated with children's involuntary
exposure to secondhand smoke. More than 1,300 pediatricians have
obtained the secondhand smoke speaker's kit since it was developed
3 years ago. To meet the high number of requests for the kit, AAP
plans to post the kit on their Web site, http://www.aap.org, in the
near future.
Contact: Office of Air and Radiation, Kim Smith, 202-564-9443
Title: Hispanic Health Project
Description: The National Council of La Raza (NCLR) and EPA are working on
a two-part Hispanic Health Project. The first part is the "Smoke-
Free" homes campaign, which provides ETS training for members
of community-based organizations who then provide training and
counseling on ETS and secure "smoke-free" homes pledges from
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other community members. The second part of the Hispanic Health
project provides training to lay health educators in low-income and
minority communities on asthma, ETS, and other health-related
topics.
Contact: Office of Air and Radiation, Laura Kolb, 202-564-9438
Title: Outreach Campaign on Secondhand Smoke and Children
Description: Surveys show that 35 percent of children under age 6 in EPA Region
4 live in a home that allows smoking indoors. To reduce these
percentages, EPA is conducting outreach on secondhand smoke and
children in two states. In Kentucky, Region 4 funded the American
Lung Association of Kentucky's "Smoke Outside . . . Please"
campaign, which features a poster and other materials that have been
distributed in physicians' offices, buses, and other venues. Region 4
also funded efforts by the Tennessee Clearinghouse of the Tennessee
Alcohol and Drug Association to develop public service announce-
ments urging people to smoke outside.
Contact: Region 4, Henry Slack, 404-562-9143
Title: Grant to Cuyahoga County Board of Health, Ohio
Description: EPA awarded a grant to the Cuyahoga County Board of Health on
behalf of the Greater Cleveland Asthma Coalition. The purpose of
the grant is to reduce exposures to ETS among Cleveland's children,
especially in minority populations.
Contacts: Region 5, Helen Tsiapas, 312-886-7901, or Sheila Batka, 312-886-
6053
Title: Indoor Air Environment Program for Children
Description: Region 7 provided information to reduce smoking in homes where
children 6 years old or younger reside. Using an IAQ grant, Region
7 worked with the American Lung Association of Western Missouri
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to develop their ETS program for pregnant women. The issue of
smoking in homes with children was discussed during a Regional
IAQ meeting. The Region met with the Iowa Department of
Education in an effort to get EPA's "Environmental Tobacco Smoke
Day Care Center Program" included in the Iowa childcare certifica-
tion requirements. Copies of the ETS speaker's kit were sent to
American Lung Association chapters in Kansas and Missouri and to
the state indoor air programs.
Contact: Region 7, Robert Dye, 913-551-7605
Title: ETS Outreach Project
Description: In cooperation with the American Lung Association, Region 8 is
providing outreach materials to health care professionals and to the
general public on the health risks associated with childhood expo-
sure to secondhand smoke.
Contact: Region 8, Kathleen Craig, 303-312-6031
Title: Environmental Tobacco Smoke Outreach
Description: Region 10 and the American Lung Association of Washington
(ALAW) conducted ETS outreach efforts in Washington hospitals
and clinics. The outreach consisted of interviewing and counseling
parents of children discharged from hospitals and treated in clinics
for asthma exacerbations. Parents who smoked were counseled
regarding ETS as an asthma trigger and the importance of not smok-
ing around their children. In addition, ALAW developed a manual
that could be used by nurses and other clinic or hospital staff to
provide this counseling. Distribution of these manuals, along with
training in their use, has taken place in 10 hospitals and clinics
throughout the state. Region 10 also worked with the Bellingham
Opportunity Council to provide ETS and asthma outreach and
education to childcare providers and parents, targeting low-income
and minority communities in northwest Washington.
Contact: Region 10, Mike Letourneau, 206-553-1687
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Indoor Air General Outreach and Interventions
Title: Asthma Media Campaign
Description: EPA is working to develop and promote a mass media campaign
designed to raise awareness that controlling indoor environmental
triggers is an integral part of managing asthma. The multi-level
campaign targets the general public, the health community, care-
givers of children with asthma, and people with asthma.
Partners: Department of Health and Human Services, National Institutes of
Health
Contact: Office of Air and Radiation, Kristy Miller, 202-564-9441
Title: Asthma Case Studies
Description: The National Association of County and City Health Officials, in
cooperation with EPA, is developing multi-disciplinary asthma case
studies for local health departments and other health professionals.
The case studies will concentrate on local health department asthma
control and prevention programs, specifically highlighting programs
that target children under 6 and low-income urban communities. The
case studies will document and describe successful community asthma
interventions that can be used as templates for other communities to
replicate, with the aim of increasing awareness and implementation
of local programs for the control and prevention of asthma.
Contact: Office of Air and Radiation, Laura Kolb, 202-564-943 8
Title: Increasing Indoor Air Action in American Asian and Pacific
Islander (AAPI) Communities
Description: EPA is working cooperatively with the Association of Asian Pacific
Community Health Organizations (AAPCHO) to reduce indoor air-
related health risks in AAPI communities. AAPCHO is developing a
culturally and linguistically appropriate asthma health education
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pamphlet for three Asian languages—Chinese, Korean, and
Vietnamese—based on EPA's new brochure Clear Your Home of
Asthma Triggers: Your Children Will Breathe Easier. AAPCHO is
also providing technical assistance and support to three AAPI
community-based mini-grant recipients during implementation of
their indoor air activities, and is producing a four-language (English,
Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean) wall calendar featuring catchy and
positive messages about clean air in the home.
Partners: Association of Asian Pacific Community Health Organizations
Contact: Office of Air and Radiation, Paulina Chen, 202-564-9031
Title: Asthma and Allergy Essentials for Childcare Providers
Description: EPA is working cooperatively with the Asthma and Allergy
Foundation of America to make childcare settings safer for, and
more accessible to, children with asthma by (1) implementing the
best-practice standards set forth in the newly released Pediatric
Asthma Guidelines to ensure safe, healthy childcare for every child,
and (2) improving policies and procedures for access to quality
childcare for children with asthma and allergies as an essential part
of each child's disease management program. This project involves
training licensed providers of childcare in appropriate asthma and
allergy management and environmental control.
Partners: Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America
Contact: Office of Air and Radiation, Brenda Doroski, 202-564-9764
Title Asthma Collaborative Program
Description: The Bureau of Primary Health Care (BPHC) of the Department of
Health and Human Services provides financial support to more than
1,000 Community Health Centers and School-Based Health Centers
that provide medical services to low-income and minority under-
served populations, many of whom do not have health insurance.
EPA is working with BPHC to incorporate appropriate indoor
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environmental trigger information into a new Breakthrough Series
Asthma Collaborative program designed to help the centers improve
health services for children and adults with asthma.
Partners: More than a dozen public and private sector partners, including
federal agencies, private foundations, and pharmaceutical
companies.
Contact: Office of Air and Radiation, Sheila Brown, 202-564-9439
Title: Early Intervention and Treatment of Asthma
Description: EPA is working cooperatively with the American Respiratory Care
Foundation to educate pediatric asthma patients in the emergency
room setting about environmental triggers for asthma and appropri-
ate intervention techniques. The goal of the project is to reduce
children's exposure to indoor asthma triggers and reduce asthma
episodes and future emergency room visits. The project is being
done in collaboration with Rainbow Babies and Children's Hospital,
University Hospital of Cleveland, and Youngstown State University.
Partners: American Respiratory Care Foundation of the American Association
for Respiratory Care
Contact: Office of Air and Radiation, Tracey Mitchell, 202-564-9446
Title: National Civil League Coalition Building Training
Description: As part of a continuing effort to educate communities in southeast-
ern Connecticut about the potential dangers of indoor air pollution,
the Southeastern Connecticut Indoor Air Quality Coalition held a
1-day forum on coalition building. The forum built upon concerns
about children's exposure to ETS; efforts to reduce the number of
children who become ill due to asthma; and outreach to hospitals,
clinics, schools, and communities on issues of IAQ and health
concerns.
Partners: Southeastern Connecticut Indoor Air Quality Coalition
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Contact: Region 1, Mary Beth Smuts, 617-918-1528
Title: ZAP Asthma Community Conference
Description: This 1-day conference in Boston featured a speaker from Atlanta,
Georgia, who provided information on the ZAP Asthma Community
Project. The conference focused on strategies for changing the
emphasis on asthma from treatment to prevention.
Partners: Urban Asthma Coalition, Tufts University School of Medicine
Contact: Region 1, Mary Beth Smuts, 617-918-1528
Title: Urban Asthma Community Conference and Coalitions
Description: EPA co-sponsored this conference on urban asthma, held at a local
community college in Boston, so as to be readily accessible to the
inner city community. A panel of experts addressed diagnosis and
management of asthma, as well as asthma prevention. The emphasis
was on education and how citizens can maneuver through the health
care system to receive thorough treatment. Numerous Environmental
Asthma Community Coalitions have been working throughout New
England on home and school education evaluations to control envi-
ronmental asthma triggers. In addition, the Asthma and Allergy
Foundation of New England developed a series for childcare
providers on controlling environmental asthma triggers.
Partners: Alternatives for the Environment, Boston Medical Center, Citizens
Energy Corporation, Dudley Street Neighborhood Initiative,
Environmental Diversity Forum, Roxbury Community College,
Urban Asthma Coalition, Asthma and Allergy Foundation of New
England
Contact: Region 1, Mary Beth Smuts, 617-918-1528
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Title: Puerto Rico Department of Health—Asthma Coordinator
Description: In 1996, EPA sponsored an asthma workshop in Catafio, Puerto
Rico, to discuss the high rate of asthma prevalence in Puerto Rican
children and to determine the most productive course of action for
combating asthma. The workshop identified a number of urgent
needs, including the need for an asthma study examining the impor-
tance of indoor allergens in Puerto Rico (see project description
below). Because the Puerto Rico Department of Health had no staff
available to dedicate to asthma issues, EPA granted funds for 1 year
to support an asthma coordinator, whose task is to implement the
recommendations of the Catafio Workshop and to help conduct an
asthma study.
Contact: Region 2, Rachel Chaput, 212-637-4001
Title: Integrated Pest Management in Urban Low-Income Housing
Projects
Description: Hunter College's Center for Environmental and Occupational
Health, in conjunction with the New York City Department of
Health, is working with the New York City Housing Authority to
implement integrated pest-management (IPM) strategies in low-
income housing projects in East Harlem. The goal of the effort is to
achieve sustainable reductions of cockroaches and rodents, both of
which produce allergens that can cause or aggravate asthma. The
team assembled to do the work is from the immediate community.
Contact: Region 2, Rachel Chaput, 212-637-4001
Title: Educational Photoliterature as a Means to Reduce Cockroach and
Rodent Infestations Without Pesticides in a Low-Income Setting
Description: EPA Region 2 is developing a community-based educational photo-
literature (photos with simple text) that describes integrated pest
management (IPM) techniques for reducing cockroach and rodent
infestations in inner city housing. Cockroaches and rodents produce
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allergens that can cause or aggravate asthma in sensitive populations,
especially children. The local community has been involved from
the outset in the development of the photoliterature, learning about
pest infestations and their association with asthma, developing a
storyline to educate community members about IPM techniques, and
helping to produce the photoliterature.
Contact: Region 2, Rachel Chaput, 212-637-4001
Title: Asthma Education in East Harlem
Description: The Boriken Neighborhood Health Center will conduct bilingual
asthma education in East Harlem, which has been documented to
have the highest asthma mortality rate in the nation. Boriken will
work in partnership with the new EPA/DHHS Children's Health
Center, recently established at the Mount Sinai Medical Center, to
deliver education that focuses on environmental triggers and proper
medical management of asthma.
Contact: Region 2, Rachel Chaput, 212-637-4001
Title: Fighting Asthma in HUD Housing
Description: EPA has awarded a grant to the New York City Housing Authority
(NYCHA), which is part of the U.S. Department of Housing and
Urban Development (HUD) housing program, to conduct an asthma
educational program for residents of the city's public housing. The
educational program will use NYCHA's 115 community centers as
the primary venue for reaching this population. A series of posters
will be developed and displayed, communicating critical messages
about the environmental control of asthma. In addition, NYCHA
will work with Hunter College's Center for Environmental and
Occupational Health to offer educational workshops about asthma
for public housing residents.
Contact: Region 2, Rachel Chaput, 212-637-4001
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Title: Clinical Directors Network Asthma Intervention Project
Description: The Clinical Directors Network (CDN) is a nonprofit association of
primary care providers who practice in low-income areas across the
country. The goal of this project is to develop and refine two inter-
ventions which, at moderate cost, can improve asthma health
outcomes. The two interventions, one clinical and one environmen-
tal, will be compared against "high-quality usual care." The resulting
structure, or module, could then be used in CDN-associated low-
income clinics in other regions, with refinements for local variations
in the relevant environmental triggers.
Contact: Region 2, Rachel Chaput, 212-637-4001
Title: Camden-Rutgers University Asthma Project
Description: This project will focus on building the capacity of residents and
community groups in Camden and Philadelphia to confront two
health problems that are strongly associated with treatable environ-
mental factors: lead poisoning and asthma. Both Camden and
Philadelphia have populations of predominantly impoverished,
minority families in which many children are at risk from these
health problems. This project will identify children at risk through
cooperative agreements with health professionals (e.g., school nurses
and maternity care givers). Environmental management teams,
composed of community residents who have been specifically
trained for this purpose, will visit the families of identified children
and provide education and intervention for lead and asthma.
Followup visits will assess the effectiveness of training and allow
evaluation of the program. The project has a 1-year goal of impact-
ing 400 families in Philadelphia and 600 families in Camden.
Contact: Region 2, Rachel Chaput, 212-637-4001
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Title: English/Spanish Video on Reducing Indoor Asthma Triggers in
Inner City Dwellings
Description: Due to a number of factors, including dilapidated housing stock,
low-income urban populations often experience disproportionate
exposures to various indoor environmental asthma triggers (e.g.,
cockroach allergens, molds). The same populations can also experi-
ence disproportionate exposures to pesticides used to target the
roaches. Research has shown that these inequities are correlated to
some extent with the extremely elevated rates of asthma found in
these populations. Regions 2 and 7 are collaborating on developing
an instructional video to give low-income urban populations tech-
niques to reduce their exposure to these substances. The video will
be translated into Spanish.
Contact: Region 2, Rachel Chaput, 212-637-4001
Title: Indoor Asthma and Allergen Control
Description: EPA Region 4 and the University of Tulsa are presenting several
2-day training courses to educate public health officials on indoor
asthma and allergen control measures.
Contact: Region 4, Henry Slack, 404-562-9143
Title: Seminar Series on Asthma
Description: The Region 5 Children's Health team and the Air Division's Asthma
Workgroup conducted four seminars on asthma, featuring expert
speakers from the Chicago area. The seminars covered a range of
topics, including the effect of environmental exposures on asthma
hospitalizations, triggers and medications for asthma, use of the
Open Airways curriculum in schools, and the Ozone Action Day
Program.
Contacts: Region 5, Afif Marouf, 312-353-5550, Fayette Bright, 312-886-
6069, or Jeanette Marrero, 312-886-6543
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Title: Community Partnership to Improve the Lives of Asthmatic Children
in Chicago
Description: EPA and the DHHS are working together on this community-based
project to decrease asthma mortality and morbidity in Chicago. The
DHHS will develop a model to reduce exposures in the indoor envi-
ronment by educating people about asthma triggers and helping
them change their behavior. The project is expected to lower chil-
dren's exposures to asthma triggers, thereby reducing asthma
episodes.
Contacts: Region 5, Fayette Bright, 312-886-6069, or Randy Cano, 312-886-
6036
Title: Managing Asthma in the Childcare Setting
Description: With EPA funding, the American Lung Association (ALA) of
Illinois conducts train-the-trainer sessions for childcare providers in
the East St. Louis metropolitan area. Using the Children's Television
Workshop's "A is for Asthma" video, the ALA educates the
providers about the environmental factors that trigger asthma attacks
in young children. The preschoolers then learn from their childcare
providers how to prevent or manage their asthma attacks.
Partners: American Lung Association of Illinois
Contact: Region 5, Suzanne Saric, 312-353-3209
Title: Childhood Asthma and Allergies Conference
Description: Region 6 hosted a 3-day Childhood Asthma Conference in May
2000 in Dallas, Texas, to address the prevention and treatment of
childhood asthma. The target audience for the conference includes
practicing health care professionals and organizations involved in
the prevention of asthma triggers. The unique aspect of this confer-
ence is that it brings together health care professionals and indoor
environmental engineering control professionals for a 2-day
exchange of ideas and information about the best available control
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and treatment technology for the prevention, control, or management
of asthma episodes in children.
Partners: University of Texas Southwestern Medical Centers (Dallas and San
Antonio), Harris Methodist Health Plan, Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences
(NIEHS), U.S. Public Health Service, University of Tulsa,
University of Washington
Contact: Region 6, Evelyn Daniels, 214-665-7543
Title: Environmental House Calls
Description: The South Texas Environmental Education and Research (STEER)
initiative of the University of Texas Health Science Center at San
Antonio offers physicians-in-training and other students in the health
professions a unique 1-month border environmental health elective.
STEER developed a pilot program of structured environmental
house calls that students conduct, under the guidance of training
professionals, by visiting homes of children with asthma in Laredo,
Texas. Laredo, a U.S.-Mexico border community, has one of the
highest rates of poverty and unemployment among U.S. cities. The
goals of the project are to (1) give a poor, minority population an
opportunity to improve environmental conditions that adversely
affect the health of their children, (2) train physicians and nurses in
environmental medicine, and (3) address the rising prevalence of
asthma.
Partners: University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio
Contact: Region 6, Evelyn Daniels, 214-665-7543
Title: Colorado Asthma Summit
Description: EPA has provided funding to hold a statewide Asthma Summit in
Colorado. This summit will bring together the public and private
sectors to discuss and evaluate the high rate of asthma in Colorado
and identify key areas that need attention.
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Partners: The American Lung Association of Colorado
Contact: Region 8, Whitney Trulove-Cranor, 303-312-6099
Title: Girl Scouts Asthma Awareness Badge
Description: Region 8 is working with the Agency for Toxic Substances and
Disease Registry and the Mile-Hi Girl Scout Council to develop a
badge program on asthma. The program will allow Girl Scouts to
earn a badge for community health education activities related to
asthma.
Partners: Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Mile-Hi Girl
Scout Council
Contact: Region 8, Alicia Aalto, 303-312-6967
Title: Neighbor to Neighbor Indoor Air Quality: Environmental Justice
Education Program
Description: Region 10 is collaborating with the Community Coalition for
Environmental Justice (CCEJ) of Seattle, Washington, on this
program, which will implement the tool recently developed by
CCEJ entitled Creating Indoor Air Quality Programs in Low-Income
Communities and Communities of People of Color: An Organizer's
Handbook. Using the handbook to implement a community-based
education model, CCEJ will conduct workshops to train community
members about indoor air contaminants and the health effects of
exposures to indoor air pollution as well as other topics.
Contact: Region 10, Brook Madrone, 206-553-2589
Title: Master Home Environmentalist Program
Description: Region 10 is working with the American Lung Association of
Washington (ALAW) in Seattle, Washington, to provide a 40-hour
training course to community volunteers on key issues of indoor air
pollution, and in community outreach skills and cultural diversity.
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The training includes lectures on indoor air pollutants and their
health effects, including a section on asthma and asthma triggers.
The volunteers use a comprehensive training manual that focuses on
conducting home environmental assessments using the Home
Environmental Assessment List (HEAL), a comprehensive survey of
indoor air conditions. Volunteers are working with residents to
devise action plans that address the major concerns identified in the
HEAL. ALAW is also working to address disproportionate health
impacts of indoor pollutants on adults and children in low-income
and minority communities. The training and home assessments also
address the issue of lead poisoning in children.
Contact: Region 10, Barbara Ross, 206-553-1985, Brooke Madrone, 206-553-
2589, or Dan Robison, 509-575-5845
Title: Community Outreach on Indoor Air and Asthma
Description: Region 10 works with several coalitions to address asthma and
indoor air quality issues. One of these is the King County Asthma
Forum, a coalition of public health agencies, local government, and
nonprofit and community-based organizations including grassroots
environmental justice organizations. This coalition addresses the
increasing rates and morbidity of asthma in the Seattle-King County
area. Region 10 also works with the Indoor Air Coalition (Puget
Sound). This group's current activities include the Little Lungs
Breathing Project, a project of the Seattle Chapter of the American
Lung Association. The project focuses on identifying asthma triggers
and other sources of indoor air pollution that can result in illness in
children enrolled in childcare centers.
Contact: Region 10, Brooke Madrone, 206-553-2589
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Research on Indoor Air Quality and Asthma and Other Respiratory
Illness among Children
Title: Clearing the Air: Asthma and Indoor Air Exposures
Description: The National Academy of Sciences (NAS) Institute of Medicine
conducted a review of available literature to determine the specific
effects of indoor pollutants on asthma illnesses and deaths. The
report, released in January 2000, includes both a general evaluation
of asthma and indoor air quality and an analysis of the effects of
individual indoor air pollutants on asthma, with special considera-
tion for children. The report recommends the best methods to reduce
exposures to indoor air pollutants that can cause or trigger asthma
episodes, and also makes recommendations for additional scientific
research in these areas. EPA will use the information to improve
public outreach, including teaching children, parents, and school
administrators about the benefits of reducing exposures to asthma
triggers in homes and schools. The report is available online at
http ://www.nap. edu/books/03 09064961 /html.
Contact: Office of Air and Radiation, Pauline Johnston, 202-564-9425
Title: Direct and Indirect Costs of Asthma and the Potential Benefit of
Education and Intervention
Description: EPA is conducting a study of the national costs of asthma and the
factors that prompt some hospitals and health plans to sponsor asth-
ma education programs. The study estimates the national costs of
asthma and the distribution of these costs, and estimates the savings
to the nation from meeting the proposed Healthy People 2010 asth-
ma objectives. The study also reviews the state of knowledge about
asthma triggers and their control, reviews several hospital- and
health plan-sponsored asthma education programs, and assesses the
cost-effectiveness of some of these programs.
Contacts: Office of Policy, Economics and Innovation, Nicole Owens, 202-
260-9514, or Lanelle Wiggins, 202-260-2692
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Title: Increased Vulnerability of Neonates to Naphthalene and Its
Derivatives
Description: Epidemiologic studies implicate maternal cigarette smoking as a
cause of a number of childhood respiratory diseases, though the
impact of other environmental contaminants on lung disease in
infants is not known. Recent studies with laboratory animals have
demonstrated that newborns are much more susceptible to lung
injury from certain environmental toxicants than are adults. This
project, which is a series of studies, focuses on the fundamental
differences between the developing cells in a newborn's lung and the
fully developed cells in an adult's lung. These studies focus on the
effects that a specific group of chemicals—naphthalene and its
derivatives—have on the lungs of adult and newborn rats, in an
attempt to understand why adults and newborns show different
susceptibilities to the chemicals.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Chris Saint, 202-564-6909
Title: Meeting of Hispanic Biomedical Association
Description: The Collaborative Study Group on Genetic-Environmental
Interactions in Asthma held a 1999 meeting in New York City to
define the genetic and environmental factors that need to be consid-
ered in studies involving the development of asthma in Puerto
Ricans. The participants assessed available approaches for the study
of genetic-environment interactions in asthma, and identified the best
sample size and type, and the best methodology, for studying the
genetic and environmental factors involved in the development of
asthma in Puerto Ricans. The meeting contributed to better under-
standing the type and nature of environmental factors triggering
asthma in Puerto Ricans and its relationship to their genetic makeup.
A report on this subject will be published.
Contact: Region 2, Rachel Chaput, 212-637-4001
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Title: Asthma Intervention Study in Hunts Point
Description: Researchers from the Jacobi Medical Center, in cooperation with the
New York City Department of Health's (DOH's) Asthma Initiative,
will assess the effectiveness of asthma interventions in 30 homes.
The DOH will perform intensive asthma education in these homes
(which all contain at least one asthmatic child), including education
about asthma, medications, environmental triggers, and remediation
of environmental triggers. The researchers from the Jacobi Medical
Center will perform evaluations in all 30 homes, analyzing the dust
samples for allergen levels at the beginning of the project, the
midpoint, and the end. The researchers will also collect some limited
asthma morbidity data at each visit.
Contact: Region 2, Rachel Chaput, 212-637-4001
Title: Montefiore Medical Center Asthma Intervention Project
Description: Montefiore Medical Center is conducting an asthma intervention
study using its Safe House, a low-allergen controlled setting. There
are three groups of participants, all severe asthmatics. The first
group is being moved temporarily into the Safe House, while their
homes are mitigated and cleaned to reduce allergens related to asth-
ma. This group also will receive family counseling. The second
group remains in their own homes but receives the same profession-
al cleaning services. The third group receives the current standard of
care—drug treatment. Symptoms and allergen levels in dust will be
analyzed at specific points in time throughout the intervention.
Contact: Region 2, Rachel Chaput, 212-637-4001
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Title: Allergen Levels in Homes of Native Americans
Description: Preliminary data for the St. Regis Mohawk Tribe, a Native American
nation located in New York state, indicate that asthma prevalence
has risen in this population over the past decade, as in the nation at
large. EPA Region 2 is providing funding for a study involving a
small cohort of households, half with and half without asthmatics.
Questionnaires will be completed by the families. Dust will be
collected from these households and analyzed for the standard dust
mite allergens and a general mold count. These data will allow
researchers to compare tribal members' environmental exposures
with those for groups whose environmental asthma has been more
thoroughly studied.
Contact: Region 2, Rachel Chaput, 212-637-4001
Title: Indoor Allergens Study in Puerto Rico
Description: EPA Region 2 has funded an environmental allergen study in Puerto
Rico, in cooperation with the University of Ponce Medical School.
Measurements of the standard environmental allergens (dust mites,
cockroaches, cats, etc.) will be made in the homes of asthmatic chil-
dren, along with measurements of heavy metals and other substances
of interest. The measurements will be complemented by an IAQ
survey in the homes, and allergenic skin testing for the asthmatic
children. This project will provide information on the levels of
known allergens and irritants in this tropical environment, and will
examine associations with the asthmatic children's allergic profiles.
Asthma rates in children in Puerto Rico have been shown to be
extremely high, and this project will provide further information on
the environmental triggers critical to asthma in Puerto Rico.
Contact: Region 2, Rachel Chaput, 212-637-4001
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Title: School Intervention Project—Headquarters/Springfield School
Indoor Air Risk Factors Study
Description: This study collected baseline measurements on pollutants and other
indoor environmental factors in schools to assess the general state of
schools' IAQ. The study monitored the levels of particulate matter,
volatile organics, and biologicals, as well as ventilation conditions
and comfort parameters. Monitoring continued for 1 week, both
inside and outside the schools.
Contact: Region 5, Sheila Batka, 312-886-6053
Title: Asthma Risk Factor Study of Chicago Public School, Before and
After Implementation of an Integrated Pest Management Program
Description: This study is focusing on the indoor environmental risk factors asso-
ciated with asthma in Chicago-area school children. The study,
which is being conducted at a Chicago public school, tested indoor
environmental factors, such as general comfort, bioaerosols, particu-
lates (PM2.5 and PM10), and dust allergens. A visual inspection of
the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system also was
conducted. This year, an IPM program will be implemented at the
school.
Contact: Region 5, Sheila Batka, 312-886-6053
Title: Indoor Biological Risk Factors for Asthma in School Age Children
Description: The Arkansas Department of Health (ADH) Division of
Epidemiology will perform a study of homes and schools of asth-
matic children in order to determine methods or approaches for
reducing risk from exposure to biological agents. Asthmatic children
will be identified from kindergarten through the sixth grade in
selected Arkansas communities.
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Partners: Arkansas public school systems; Parent-Teacher Associations;
Statewide Educational Cooperatives; American Lung Association,
Arkansas Chapter; Arkansas Department of Education
Contact: Region 6, Mike Miller, 214-665-7550
Title: Indoor Environmental Intervention Study in Grade Schools and
Childcare Centers to Reduce Childhood Asthma Symptoms
Description: Region 8 and the University of Colorado at Boulder will conduct an
intervention study to examine ways to reduce exposure to certain
indoor environmental asthma triggers in schools and childcare
centers in the Denver area.
Partners: University of Colorado Department of Mechanical Engineering, EPA
Radiation and Indoor Environments National Laboratory
Contact: Region 8, Megan Williams, 303-312-6431
Title: Seattle Healthy Homes Project
Description: This 4-year study, funded by the National Institutes of
Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), is designed to improve
indoor environmental quality and reduce asthma morbidity. EPA and
the project's Science Advisory Committee helped identify important
intervention focus areas around control of asthma triggers, asthma
self-management, and development of measurement tools.
Contact: Region 10, Brooke Mardone, 206-553-2589
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Outdoor Air Quality
Title: Let Kids Lead
Description: This pilot program enables youth to become involved in transporta-
tion choices that improve air quality and quality of life in their
communities. The program makes resources available to communi-
ties across the country who want to encourage youth to participate in
transportation problem-solving. The program is administered though
a partnership with the Academy for Educational Development, a
national nonprofit organization. Its Web site is www.letkidslead.org.
Partners: Academy for Educational Development, American Lung
Association of Gulfcoast Florida, Mid-America Regional Council,
Alternatives of Community and the Environment
Contact: Office of Air and Radiation, Connie Ruth, 734-214-4815
Title: Community-Based Environmental Monitoring with the Toppenish
School District and the Yakama Nation
Description: Region 10 is working with the Toppenish, Washington, School
District and the Yakama Nation on an air quality education project
with area schools. EPA is providing indoor and ambient air monitor-
ing equipment along with training and short-term technical support.
The school district is developing an environmental education
curriculum focused on air quality. As part of the curriculum, both
students and teachers will engage in air quality monitoring in and
around their school. EPA will provide technical support in the short
term and the Yakama Nation's air program will support the effort in
the long term.
Contact: Region 10, Dan Robison, 509-575-5845
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Research on Outdoor Air Quality and Asthma and Other Respiratory
Illness Among Children
Title: Childhood Susceptibility to Air Pollutants
Description: A collaborative study is under way to determine whether children
are more susceptible than adults to nasal metaplasia (abnormal cell
changes) and whether biochemical tests can detect effects of expo-
sure to high ambient ozone and PM10 pollutants in Mexico City. A
separate study deals with a comparison of the dose of ozone deliv-
ered to the lungs of infant versus adult rats.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Linda Birnbaum, 919-541-
2655
Title: Oro-Nasal Ventilation Pattern in Children and Associated Fine
Paniculate Matter Deposition
Description: The objective of this project is to determine how a child's breathing
rate ("ventilation rate") changes at various levels of activity, and at
what point children switch their mode of breathing from nose to
mouth-and-nose (the "oro-nasal switching point"). These parameters
are key determinants of both inhaled particle deposition and gas
uptake in the respiratory tract. These parameters have been charac-
terized for a limited number of adult subjects. This study will
produce the first data on these important ventilation parameters in
children.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Annie Jarabek, 919-541-4847
Title: Exacerbation of Asthma among Inner City Children
Description: EPA and the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases
support a comprehensive indoor and outdoor monitoring program of
particulate matter and co-pollutants in conjunction with the Inner
City Asthma Study (ICAS). The ICAS study is examining
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respiratory symptoms and pulmonary function levels among 1,022
inner city children with moderate to severe asthma, residing in seven
U.S. communities.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Hillel Koren, 919-966-6200
Title: Acute Respiratory Health and Ambient Air Quality in the Paso del
Norte Airshed
Description: The objective of this epidemiologic study, developed by a group of
public health professionals in Chihuahua, Mexico, is to determine if
there is an association between air quality and pediatric respiratory
health. The study area is the Paso del Norte airshed, an area of
approximately 300 square miles in the Rio Grande River valley,
incorporating parts of Mexico, Texas, and New Mexico. Researchers
are looking for associations between daily levels of air contami-
nants, pollens, and meteorologic variables and daily counts of
hospital emergency room visits for asthma and asthma-related
illnesses by children aged 1 to 17 who live in the study area. The
study is looking at data collected in 1994 and 1995.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, David Otto, 919-966-6226
Title: Mechanisms of Age-Dependent Ozone-Induced Airway Dysfunction
Description: Acute exposure to ozone causes airway hyper-responsiveness
(AHR), a defining feature of asthma. Though ozone may be a partic-
ularly important respiratory hazard for children, the mechanism for
ozone-induced AHR has not been established. The purpose of this
project is to examine age-related changes in ozone-induced AHR in
mice and to determine the mechanistic basis for observed changes.
Contacts: Office of Research and Development, Chris Saint, 202-564-6909
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Title: Deposition of Air Pollutants in the Developing Human Lung
Description: Using a validated mathematical model for computing air deposition,
researchers are studying total deposition within the whole lung, its
relative compartmental distributions, and its localized patterns. This
model also is being applied to predict the deposition of inhaled parti-
cles in the developing human lung.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Linda Birnbaum, 919-541-
2655
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References
1. The President's Task Force on Environmental Health Risks and Safety Risks
to Children. 1999. Asthma and the Environment: A Strategy to Protect
Children. Available at http://www.epa.gov/children/asthma.
2. Halfon, N., and PW. Newacheck. 1993. Childhood Asthma and Poverty:
Differential Impacts and Utilization of Health Services. Pediatrics. Volume 91,
Pages 56-61.
3. CDC. 1996. Asthma Mortality and Hospitalization among Children and Young
Adults, 1980-1993. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention. Volume 45, Number 17, Pages 350-353.
May 3.
4. ALA. 1997. Asthma in Diverse Communities. American Lung Association,
Washington, DC.
5. Bates, D.V 1995. The Effects of Air Pollution on Children. Environmental
Health Perspectives. Volume 103 (Supplement B), Pages 49-53.
6. National Institutes of Health/National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute.
October 1998. Morbidity and Mortality: 1998 Chartbook on Cardiovascular,
Lung and Blood Diseases.
7. ALA. 1997. When You Can't Breathe, Nothing Else Matters. American Lung
Association, Washington, DC.
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Childhood Cancer
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), cancer among children is a
substantial public concern:
Each year in the United States, approximately 12,400 children and
adolescents younger than 20 years of age are diagnosed with cancer.
Approximately 2,300 children and adolescents die of cancer each year,
which makes cancer the most common cause of disease-related mortality
for children 1-19 years of age. (For this same age group, cancer ranked
fourth as a cause of death behind unintentional injuries, homicides, and
suicides).(1)
The NIH also reports that the overall cancer incidence rate increased from the mid-
1970's, but rates in the last decade have been fairly stable. The incidence of
leukemia among children younger than 15 years of age has shown a moderate
increase (0.9% per year) in the past 20 years. Central nervous system cancer rates
have increased from 1975 to 1995 (1.5% per year), though this trend has been the
subject of considerable debate concerning the roles of environmental exposure
and/or improvements in diagnostic technology.(l)
Certain toxic substances and radiation in the environment have the potential to initi-
ate or accelerate the cell changes that lead to cancer. Examples of environmental
factors that may be associated with cancer are environmental tobacco smoke, radon,
asbestos, ultraviolet light, certain hazardous wastes, and some pesticides.(2,3,4)
EPA has an active program to address environmental threats that may contribute to
childhood and adult cancer. EPA works with state and local governments, schools,
and nonprofit organizations to reduce elevated radon levels in schools and homes.
Through these partnerships, EPA has promoted radon awareness, voluntary testing
programs, radon-resistant building practices, and methods to lower radon levels.
The Agency provides education and technical assistance to school districts to
inspect school buildings for materials containing asbestos and to take followup
actions. EPA also engages in outreach programs to educate students, teachers, and
the general public about the potential damage ultraviolet radiation may cause to
children's skin. A new EPA program, the Sun Wise School Program, offers students
innovative learning opportunities, including monitoring daily UV levels (both fore-
cast and actual), participating in cross-auricular classroom activities, and enhancing
school sun-safety policies and practices.
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EPA has recently developed a list of chemicals and environmental hazards that pose
the greatest risk to children's health at or near Superfund sites. The Agency is using
this list to protect the health of children who live near hazardous waste sites. EPA
also is conducting research to determine how much exposure children receive to
toxic substances in the environment, and is developing methods and techniques to
assess the effects of exposure to the body.
EPA Projects Related to Cancer
Radon
Title:
Description:
Contact:
Title:
Description:
Radon Mitigation for School Maintenance Personnel
EPA Region 4, working with the Kentucky and Tennessee Radon
Programs and the Southern Regional Radon Training Center, spon-
sored two courses designed to train school maintenance personnel
on how to mitigate radon problems in their own schools. Radon
mitigation techniques were applied at the host schools as part of the
course. The course at the Western Kentucky University campus
included mitigation of a building on the National Register of
Historic Places. Representatives from numerous surrounding school
districts participated.
Region 4, Patsy Brooks, 404-562-9145
Radon Outreach
Region 7 conducted a variety of radon outreach activities related to
real estate transactions. It promoted real estate disclosure laws and
radon testing, and handled more than 250 telephone calls about
radon. The Region worked with several states to review a draft
Radon and Real Estate fact sheet. Nebraska used radon grant funds
from EPA to host six radon and real estate courses involving 116
brokers, real estate agents, and appraisers. The region also promoted
radon-resistant new construction (RRNC). RRNC information was
displayed in the Regional Office during national Radon Action
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Contact:
Title:
Description:
Partners:
Contact:
Asbestos
Title:
Description:
Week. Using EPA grants, Nebraska hosted a RRNC workshop.
Kansas assisted technical schools and high school vocational
programs in building radon-resistant homes. Region 7 also devel-
oped an IAQ and Radon Training Calendar that includes training
courses offered by states, and conducted a number of briefings.
Region 7, Steve Chambers, 913-551-7260
Radon Outreach/Community Projects
All of the states in Region 8 (Colorado, Montana, South and North
Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming) have active radon programs. These
programs' objectives include (1) promoting radon-resistant building
practices for new homes; (2) testing and mitigating radon problems
in existing homes; and (3) outreach to nonprofit organizations, the
medical community, and local schools. An ongoing effort is being
made in each state to form partnerships with local governments, the
American Lung Association, and realtors. Progress in these areas has
led to healthier environments for families with children. In addition,
Region 8 has provided funding for many tribes to test and mitigate
tribal homes and schools.
The Western Regional Radon Training Center; American Lung
Association; state and local governments, including Departments of
Health and Departments of Environmental Quality
Region 8, Kathleen Craig, 303-312-6031
Asbestos-in-Schools Rule
EPA continues to monitor the requirements of the Asbestos-in-
Schools Rule (1982, 1987) and to enforce standards that protect
children against asbestos hazards. The rule includes requirements for
preschools and childcare centers to protect younger children. EPA
provides funds to 26 states to carry out asbestos and other inspec-
tions. States refer violations to the appropriate EPA regional office
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for enforcement. Contact EPA Headquarters: Jack Neylan, 202-564-
5033, or Karen Taimi, 202-564-5046. Examples of activities to
promote the Asbestos-in-Schools Rule follow.
Region 1: EPA staff mailed letters to all school superintendents in Region 1,
reminding them of their asbestos management responsibilities under
the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act. Letters were also
mailed to state PTA contacts for use as meeting discussion items or
in their newsletters to members. Articles on current information
concerning asbestos will be prepared for distribution to school
newsletters. In cooperation with the National Conference of State
Legislatures, Region 1 developed an asbestos compendium
CD-ROM, a collection of statues, regulations, vinyl asbestos tile
(VAT) policies, and Web sites for the states and regulated communi-
ty. Contact James M. Bryson, 617-918-1524.
Region 9: Region 9 developed a newsletter on asbestos issues and sent copies
to school districts. Region 9 staff participate in refresher training
courses targeted for school personnel and their consultants. Contact
Pat Maravilla, 415-744-1122.
Title: Asbestos Outreach and Technical Assistance
Description: Region 7 provided technical assistance to regulated and unregulated
communities and to tribal, state, county, city, and other federal
governmental agencies via telephone, workshops, direct response to
written inquiries, and mailings. The Asbestos team responded to
more than 850 phone inquiries in FY 1999.
Contact: Region 7, Greg Crable, 913-551 -7391
Ultraviolet (UV) Light
Title: Sun Wise School Program
Description: SunWise is a comprehensive environmental and health education
program for elementary and middle schools. SunWise Partner
Schools participate in classroom, school, and community projects
that teach them about the health risks of overexposure to the sun, as
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well as the science behind UV radiation and ozone depletion.
SunWise schools participate in a wide range of activities, such as
reporting daily UV ground and forecast data on the SunWise Web
site, participating in cross-auricular classroom activities, enhancing
school sun-safety policies and practices, and sponsoring guest speak-
ers and partnerships. All program materials are provided to teachers
free of charge.
Contact: Office of Air and Radiation, Maura Cantor, 202-564-9096, or visit
the SunWise Web site at http://www.epa.gov/sunwise.
Title: Ozone Depletion Art Project
Description: The Ozone Depletion Art Project uses the Internet to motivate
students to learn about ozone depletion, UV radiation hazards, and
ways to reduce sun exposure. Using an EPA Web site
(http://www.epa.gov/ozone/art), teachers and their students learn
more about ozone depletion and UV exposure precautions. They
submit drawings on the ozone layer (how it protects us from UV
radiation), ozone depletion (how ozone-depleting substances harm
the ozone layer), how UV radiation is measured, and how we can
protect ourselves from the sun's UV rays. EPA has received more
than 200 drawings so far. EPA also responds to approximately 50
questions and comments per month from students and teachers.
Contact: Office of Air and Radiation, Christine Dibble, 202-564-9147
Title: SunWise
Description: A SunWise display was created for EPA Region 3's Public
Information Center, where numerous school groups came to learn
about the dangers of UV radiation. In addition, 20 SunWise videos
and information were sent to requesting schools for use as part of
their health curriculum. The SunWise team participated in several
health fairs and modified the EPA Region 3 Web site to include
information on the SunWise Program.
Contact: Region 3, Fran Dougherty, 215-814-2083, or Christina Schulinkamp,
215-814-2086
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Research on Childhood Cancer
Title: Assessment of Genetic Alterations in Newborns and Adults
Description: Specific chromosomal alterations are associated with specific human
tumors. This research addresses the question of whether the frequen-
cies of certain chromosome alterations are similar in newborns and
adults or lower in children in the absence of known exposures. In
addition, the response in the laboratory of cells from children and
adults to specific exposures will be considered.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Robert Kavlock, 919-541-
2771
Title: Fetal Metabolism of Aflatoxin B1 and Susceptibility to Childhood
Cancer
Description: The initial peak of cancer incidence occurs during the first 5 years of
life, and available evidence indicates that a primary risk factor for
childhood cancer involves prenatal exposure to cancer-causing
agents. The rapid changes that occur during fetal development may
result in critical windows of susceptibility to toxic injury. The objec-
tive of this research study is to understand the genetic and
developmental risk factors associated with a specific dietary carcino-
gen (Aflatoxin Bl) that can be transferred to the fetus through the
placenta. The researchers also hope to identify particularly sensitive
age groups and windows of developmental susceptibility to prenatal
carcinogen exposure. Once risk factors and critical susceptibility
windows are identified, then appropriate risk avoidance or mini-
mization strategies can be employed.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Chris Saint, 202-564-6909
Childhood Cancer
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Title: Environmental Justice and Children's Health Data: Investigating
Potential Relationships with Spatial Data
Description: Region 8 has initiated a project to combine current geographic infor-
mation system (GIS) data on environmental justice with child health
data in an effort to investigate potential relationships between expo-
sure to environmental hazards and patterns of disease in Colorado.
In particular, the program will evaluate several types of cancer and
blood lead levels.
Partners: Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment
Contact: Region 8, Jan Buhrmann, 303-312-6557
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References
1. National Institutes of Health. September 1999. Cancer Incidence and Survival
among Children and Adolescents: United States SEER Program 1975-1995.
Nffl Publication Number 99-4649.
2. Zahm, S.H., and S.S. Devesa. 1995. Childhood Cancer: Overview of Incidence
Trends and Environmental Carcinogens. Environmental Health Perspectives.
Volume 103 (Supplement 6), Pages 177-184.
3. Weinstein, IB. 1988. The Origins of Human Cancer: Molecular Mechanism of
Carcinogenesis and Their Treatment. Cancer Research. Volume 48, Pages
4135-4143.
4. NRC. 1993. Pesticides in the Diets of Infants and Children. National Research
Council. Washington, DC: National Academy Press.
Childhood Cancer
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Developmental and
Neurological Toxicity
Exposures to neurotoxic substances (substances that can damage the nervous
system) may have only temporary effects on adults, but may cause permanent
damage to a child's developing nervous system, especially the brain.(1,2)
Neurotoxic substances, such as heavy metals, solvents, pesticides, and polychlori-
nated biphenyls (PCBs), may have harmful effects on brain function, including
intelligence and behavior, and interfere with the normal workings of the entire nerv-
ous system.(3,4,5,6)
Lead is one of the most pervasive developmental toxic substances in the United
States today. (7,8) To prevent lead exposures in children, EPA and other federal
agencies enforce regulations on the use and removal of lead-based paint, promote
public education on the health risks posed by lead-based paint, and conduct research
on lead poisoning and on the impact that lead-contaminated hazardous waste sites
may have on children. To minimize children's exposures to lead via drinking water
systems, the Safe Drinking Water Act controls lead levels at the tap, as well as the
lead content in solder, water pipes, and plumbing fixtures.
EPA has completed a report to Congress on mercury and is studying the adverse
health effects of mercury on nervous system development in children. EPA has
begun a public education program to prevent mercury poisoning.
The Agency is developing a multi-year research strategy on endocrine (hormone)
disrupters and is coordinating research throughout the federal government. The
Endocrine Disrupter Screening Program focuses on providing methods and proce-
dures to detect and characterize endocrine activity of pesticides, commercial
chemicals, and environmental chemicals. EPA continues to conduct research on
methods to assess reproductive, embryo, and fetal toxicity. In addition, EPA routine-
ly conducts risk assessments of reproductive and developmental effects.
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Goals of Eliminating Childhood Lead Poisoning:
A Federal Strategy Targeting Lead Paint Hazards
By 2010, eliminate lead paint hazards in housing where children under six live. This goal can be
accomplished through the following:
• Federal grants and leveraged private funding to identify and eliminate lead paint hazards in order
to produce an adequate supply of lead-safe housing for low-income families with children.
• Outreach and public education to increase awareness of lead hazards and how to address them.
• Enforcement of lead safety laws and regulations.
By 2010, elevated blood lead levels in children will be eliminated through:
• Increased compliance with existing policies concerning blood lead screening.
Increased coordination across federal, state, and local agencies responsible for outreach,
education, technical assistance, and data collection related to lead screening and abatement.
EPA Projects on Developmental and Neurological Toxicity
Lead
Title:
Eliminating Childhood Lead Poisoning: A Federal Strategy
Targeting Lead Paint Hazards
Description: The strategy Eliminating Childhood Lead Poisoning was developed
by an interagency work group of the President's Task Force on
Environmental Health Risks and Safety Risks to Children. The
vision of the strategy is to eliminate lead poisoning in children in the
United States. The goals focus on: 1) eliminating lead paint hazards
in housing where children under age 6 live; and 2) early intervention
for at-risk children.
Contact: Office of Children's Health Protection, Joanne Rodman, 202-260-
7778
Developmental and Neurological Toxicity
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Title: Identification of Lead Exposure and Risk Reduction
Description: Pediatric lead exposure is a significant health concern along the
U.S.-Mexican border. Researchers are conducting lead screening
investigations at three sites: Tijuana, Mexico; the Chihuahua-New
Mexico border; and the Sonora-Arizona border. The Sonora-Arizona
study was recently completed. The study concluded that blood lead
levels of children in the tested area do not appear to be a major
public health problem. The low prevalence of elevated blood lead
levels demonstrates the success of lead-reduction programs in the
community.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Chris Saint, 202-564-6909
Title: Environmental Lead Risks
Description: The aim of this research is to evaluate and refine tools for assessing
risks from environmental lead. A principal focus is on exposures of
young children to lead in soil and house dust. The results also will
be applicable to assessment of risks from airborne lead, lead in
drinking water, and lead in food. Another research focus is the appli-
cation of direct statistical modeling of epidemiologic data on blood
lead levels to evaluate environmental risks. EPA also provides tech-
nical support in lead risk assessment and risk characterization for the
states and other organizations. (Web address:
http://www.epa.gov/superfund/programs/lead/index.htm).
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Paul White, 919-541 -023 8
Title: Public Education and Outreach Grants
Description: In FY 1998, EPA awarded grants under the new Lead Poisoning
Prevention and Lead Hazard Awareness Public Education and
Outreach Grant Program. Their purpose is to provide public educa-
tion and outreach that increases awareness of lead-based paint
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hazards and promote lead poisoning prevention among those at risk,
including primarily low-income, minority communities located in
large metropolitan areas or communities with predominantly older
housing. Children living in these communities are at risk for elevat-
ed levels of lead exposure. Nine projects across the country received
funding this year totaling approximately $459,000.
Contact: Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances, Megan
Carroll, 202-260-7269
Title: The National Cinema Outreach Pilot Project
Description: In December 1998 and January 1999, EPA piloted the National
Cinema Outreach Project to provide lead hazard awareness informa-
tion on theater screens. This nationwide program was piloted in 17
states, 57 cities, 510 screens, with 1530 screenings each day, or
45,900 viewings each month. The slides featured medical back-
grounds with different messages ("Protect Your Children From Lead
Poisoning," "Grow Them Up Healthy," and "Get Your Child Tested
Today") and the 1-800-424-LEAD number and the Lead Web site. It
is estimated that the lead hazard awareness messages were viewed
by one-half million people.
Contact: Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances, Susan Laing,
202-260-0248
Title: Environmental Justice Grant: Lead Action Collaborative, Boston,
Massachusetts
Description: The Lead Action Collaborative is a partnership of nonprofit organi-
zations, foundations, and public agencies whose goal is to
significantly and comprehensively reduce the incidence of child-
hood lead poisoning in Boston's high-risk neighborhoods. The
Collaborative provides centralized support, technical assistance, and
training to community-based organizations. The project strengthens
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communication and fosters collaboration and resource sharing
among grassroots organizations, nonprofit organizations, and public
agencies through community forums, briefings, and workshops.
Partners: Lead Action Collaborative, public and private organizations in
Greater Boston
Contact: Region 1, Katie Mazer, 617-918-1523
Title: Consortium of North East States and Tribes (CONEST)
Description: CONEST was developed through the efforts of the Region 1 Lead
Program in 1991. The Consortium developed the first interstate and
intertribal Memorandum of Understanding in the country outlining
state and tribal lead program standards for training accreditation and
auditing, contractor licensing, tracking, and third party examination
requirements.
Partners: Region 1 and Region 2 states, Region 1 tribes
Contact: Region 1, James M. Bryson, 617-918-1524
Title: New England Lead Coordinating Committee (NELCC)
Description: NELCC is a collaboration of government agencies and nonprofit
groups throughout New England, working in collaboration with
public, private, and nonprofit health and housing organizations to
develop and strengthen a coalition for lead poisoning prevention in
New England. NELCC coordinates the "Keep It Clean" campaign,
which informs "do-it-yourself home renovators, contractors, and
those who employ contractors about the risk of lead poisoning in
children and adults during the renovation and repainting of older
homes, and creates a link between consumers and hardware store
employees.
Partners: Consortium of North East States and Tribes, state and local depart-
ments of health and/or environment, Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
Contact: Region 1, Katie Mazer, 617-918-1523
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Title: Tribal Based Environmental Protection (TBEP) Program
Description: The Tribal Based Environmental Protection Program was developed
as part of the Consortium of North East States and Tribes
Memorandum of Understanding. Each tribal member has applied for
program authorization from EPA under sections 402 and 404 of the
Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) for their respective state and
tribal lead licensing and enforcement activities. The main goal of
TBEP is "protection of our most valued natural resource, our chil-
dren . . ."
Contact: Region 1, James M. Bryson, 617-918-1524
Title: Environmental Monitoring for Public Access and Community
Tracking (EMPACT) Lead Safe Yard Program
Description: This federally funded EPA project focuses on Boston's low-income
Spanish- and Haitian-speaking neighborhoods. EMPACT conducts
environmental monitoring of lead in soils, delivers time-relevant
lead in soil data and interpretation to residents, provides public
access and community tracking, and carries out low-cost landscap-
ing and other soil remediation measures.
Partners: Bowdoin Street Health Center, Dudley Street Neighborhood
Initiative, Boston University School of Public Health, Garden
Futures, graduates of the Boston Urban Gardeners' City Gardener
Certificate Program
Contact: Region 1, Rob Maxfield, 781-860-4640
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Title: EPA National Lead Poisoning Prevention and Lead Hazard
Awareness Public Education and Outreach Program: Crittenton
Hastings House, Boston, Massachusetts
Description: Crittenton Hastings House addresses the needs of young people who
are low-income, pregnant, parenting, or at risk for early pregnancy
and who live in areas where most severely lead-poisoned children
are found. Working in collaboration with Boston organizations,
Crittenton provides children and families with information regarding
lead hazards and lead poisoning prevention to decrease the number
of children at risk of lead poisoning, increase the number of children
who receive regular blood screening, and increase awareness of
tenant rights and landlord responsibilities regarding lead paint
removal.
Contact: Region 1, Katie Mazer, 617-918-1523
Title: EPA Supplemental Environmental Projects (SEP), Providence,
Rhode Island
Description: EPA has provided nearly $400,000 in Rhode Island to remove lead
from dozens of childcare facilities. Funding was made available
from an EPA federal enforcement action against the Rhode Island
Department of Transportation for the improper storage of large
amounts of hazardous waste.
Partners: Rhode Island Department of Public Health
Contact: Region 1, Amelia Katzen, 617-918-1869
Title: Keep It Clean Campaign, Video, Posters, Billboards
Description: Region 1 conducted a lead awareness campaign targeted to home-
owners and stores. The goal is to educate hardware stores to provide
lead-safe tools and advice to consumers. The tools include an
8-minute video, pamphlets, and billboards.
Partners: Region 1 states, local hardware stores, Tufts University
Contacts: Region 1, James M. Bryson, 617-918-1524, or Katie Mazer,
617-918-1523
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Title: Providence, Rhode Island, Mayor's Safe Housing Lead Task Force
Description: The Providence Safe Housing Lead Task Force is charged with
establishing a comprehensive strategy for protecting Providence
children and improving Providence housing. The Task Force has
produced a master plan, A Healthier and Brighter Future for the
Children of Providence: A Strategic Framework for Healthy
Children and Well-Maintained, Lead-Safe Housing in Thriving
Neighborhoods.
Partners: Providence public and private partners
Contact: Region 1, Kristi Rea, 617-918-1595
Title: IMPACT CD-ROM Technology
Project: An Interactive Module For Lead Awareness Course Technology
(IMPACT) manual was designed to train those conducting renova-
tion, remodeling, and painting. The manual is used in conjunction
with the interactive CD-ROM, which is a 6-hour self-study course
for vocational technical high school/college students who are future
painters, carpenters, home renovators, etc.
Contact: Region 1, James M. Bryson, 617-918-1524
Title: Lead Safe Renovation Training - Interactive CD-ROM
Description: An interactive CD-ROM was developed for painters, home owners,
and renovators. Video clips of "right" and "wrong" renovation
activities are used with a 16-hour worker and an 8-hour supervisor
training.
Partners: Consortium of North East States and Tribes, Massachusetts
Department Workforce Development
Contact: Region 1, James M. Bryson, 617-918-1524
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Title: First Steps: Childcare Provider/Parent Lead Awareness Manuals,
Video, and CD-ROM
Description: The First Steps Program is designed as a primary prevention
program for childcare providers to provide a lead safe training
messages to parents with young children. It also allows childcare
providers to earn Continuing Education Units (CEUs) that can be
used to meet regulatory or professional requirements. A three-
volume manual for the program includes What You Should Know
About Lead Poisoning: A Manual for Child Care Providers
(English); Lo Que Debe Saber Acerca de la Intoxicacionpor Plomo
(Spanish); and Little Moccasins, a Lead Poisoning Prevention
Manual and Video for Tribal Day Care Providers and Families
(Native American version).
Partners: Tribal Based Environmental Protection Committee, Houlton Band of
Mauseet Indians, Phil Quint
Contact: Region 1, James M. Bryson, 617-918-1524
Title: Urban Environmental Initiative (UEI) Cooperative Agreement:
Urban Revival, Inc., Prevent Lead Poisoning Project
Description: UEI is a Region 1 pilot program to address environmental and public
health problems in urban areas. UEI facilitates community-based
environmental protection in Boston, Massachusetts; Providence,
Rhode Island; and Hartford, Connecticut. This project focuses on
coordination of lead paint poisoning prevention and housing educa-
tion outreach across multiple neighborhoods in Boston and East
Boston with linguistically and culturally appropriate information and
education.
Partners: The Tenant Action Network, comprising City Life/Viva Urbana,
East Boston Ecumenical Community Council, and the Massachusetts
Tenants Organization
Contact: Region 1, Katie Mazer, 617-918-1523
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Title: Time Related Environmental Numeric Health Data System
(TRENHDS) CD-ROM
Description: TRENHDS is an environmental and health tracking program on a
GIS mapping platform. TRENHDS can map, track, and overlay
environmental sample sites with health problems on a map to identi-
fy clusters. The system can be installed on laptops and is user
friendly. It is currently developed for tribes in the Northeast.
Partners: Tribal Based Environmental Protection Committee, Trevor White,
Passamaquoddy Indian Township
Contact: Region 1, James M. Bryson, 617-918-1524
Title: UEI Cooperative Agreement: Lead Poisoning Prevention Awareness
Program for Childcare Providers
Description: The Hartford, Connecticut, Department of Public Health trained
Community Environmental Educators to teach lead poisoning
prevention to Hartford childcare centers located in areas of high risk
for lead poisoning. The training uses the First Steps lead awareness
manuals to provide materials for Spanish-speaking, English-
speaking, and Native American childcare providers.
Partners: Connecticut Department of Public Health, Connecticut Cooperative
Extension; Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians, Houlton, Maine;
Hartford Department of Public Health
Contact: Region 1, Katie Mazer, 617-918-1523
Title: UEI Cooperative Agreement: Codman Square Lead Poisoning
Prevention Initiative
Description: This project developed a lead poisoning prevention program that
will serve as a model for high-risk, low-income African-American
neighborhoods in other cities. The UEI grant money made possible
the completion of planning, materials development, recruitment, and
training essential to implementing an effective community action for
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the primary prevention of childhood lead poisoning initiative in the
high-risk neighborhoods of Boston.
Partners: The Medical Foundation of Boston and its Massachusetts Prevention
Center in Codman Square, National Center for Lead Safe Housing
Contact: Region 1, Katie Mazer, 617-918-1523
Title: UEI Cooperative Agreement: Re Vision House, Roxbury,
Massachusetts
Description: Re Vision House, a residential program for homeless young mothers
and their children, designed and implemented an environmental
education curriculum that included lead paint poisoning prevention,
urban gardening, urban fish farming, and vocational training.
Participants converted the porches of their triple-decker home to a
thriving greenhouse and fish farm.
Partners: Re Vision House, Garden Futures, Boston Urban Gardeners, Roxbury
Community College, New England Aquarium
Contact: Region 1, Katie Mazer, 617-918-1523
Title: Healthy Beginnings: Lead Safe Families
Description: Healthy Beginnings is a set of user-friendly curriculum materials
used as classroom resources for teachers of English as a second
language. Healthy Beginnings teaches basic life and language skills
to recent immigrants; interwoven into the language development
skills are steps to identify and prevent childhood lead poisoning.
Although they were developed for use in Region 1, the materials are
currently in use in 27 states.
Contact: Region 1, Katie Mazer, 617-918-1523
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Title: Lead Suite CD-ROM
Description: An interactive CD-ROM provides turn key software to run a lead
program. The CD contains tracking, testing, teaching, regulations,
and guidance documents.
Partners: Tribal Based Environmental Protection Committee - Houlton Band
of Maliseet Indians, Phil Quint
Contact: Region 1, James M. Bryson, 619-918-1524
Title: Camden-Rutgers University Asthma Project
Description: This project will focus on building the capacity of residents and
community groups in Camden and Philadelphia to confront two
health problems that are strongly associated with treatable environ-
mental factors: lead poisoning and asthma. Both Camden and
Philadelphia have populations of predominantly impoverished,
minority families in which many children are at risk from these
health problems. This project will identify children at risk through
cooperative agreements with health professionals (e.g., school nurses
and maternity care givers). Environmental management teams,
composed of community residents who have been specifically
trained for this purpose, will visit the families of identified children
and provide education and intervention for lead and asthma.
Followup visits will assess the effectiveness of training and allow
evaluation of the program. The project has a 1-year goal of impact-
ing 400 families in Philadelphia and 600 families in Camden.
Contact: Region 2, Rachel Chaput, 212-637-4001
Title: Environmental Education Project
Description: This EPA-funded project is coordinated by the Childhood Lead
Poisoning Prevention Program (CLPPP) of the City of Philadelphia
Department of Public Health. CLPPP provides free public work-
shops on safe methods of reducing lead hazards at various sites
throughout the city, such as home repair supply stores. Workshops
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held at paint and hardware stores teach both staff and customers how
to abate lead hazards in their own homes, in a manner that ensures
the safety of the residents. All program materials are designed to be
understood easily by the "average person."
Partners: City of Philadelphia Department of Public Health, Pennsylvania
Contact: Region 3, Nan Ides, 215-814-5546
Title: Lead-Safe Babies Project
Description: This project is being funded by the Children's Health Program to
educate new mothers in high-risk areas of North Philadelphia about
the dangers of lead poisoning to their babies. Specially trained
outreach workers are visiting new mothers in their homes and show-
ing them how to take preventative measures to protect their
newborns. This intervention has been successful in reaching what is,
traditionally, a hard-to-reach population. Of 45 new mothers identi-
fied in the target area, 44 of them (98%) have agreed to participate
in the program and have already been visited once by the outreach
specialists. This extraordinarily high level of participation is likely
due to the use of outreach workers who are from the community
who are trained and supported by the highly respected, nurse practi-
tioner-led neighborhood health clinics. Follow-up visits will be made
to the homes to reinforce practices and encourage mothers to have
their babies tested for lead when they reach 9 months of age. The
City of Philadelphia will provide free testing and the Regional
Nursing Centers Consortium will assess and report on the results
next year.
Partners: Regional Nursing Centers Consortium and Philadelphia's
Department of Public Health
Contact: Region 3, Gail Tindal, 215-814-2069, or Dan Welker, 215-814-2744
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Title: Reducing Exposure to Lead in Drinking Water in Philadelphia's
School District
Description: During 1999, EPA determined that there may be a potential health
risk at a few schools due to lead leaching from some of the plumb-
ing fixtures. In the beginning of 2000, the Philadelphia School
District signed an agreement with the Health Department to
(1) immediately institute daily flushing activities; (2) test all sources
of drinking water for lead in schools; and (3) take corrective action
wherever elevated lead levels are found. EPA Region 3 is providing
ongoing technical assistance to the city and the school district. This
project is especially important because (1) Philadelphia exceeds the
national level for elevated blood lead levels in children and (2) the
Philadelphia School District is the fifth largest in the country. This
project, which will last a year or two, will test all potable water
sources in approximately 295 buildings that the Philadelphia School
District owns or operates and correct any lead plumbing problems.
Contact: Region 3, Marie Holman, 215-814-5463, or Karen Johnson, 215-
814-5445
Title: Lead Umbrella Workshop
Description: EPA funded a 1-day lead information and education workshop for
parents, representatives of local governments, policy makers, health
providers, representatives of tenants' interests, members of religious
communities, and education and childcare providers. The workshop
addressed the issue of lead poisoning in children. Experts in lead
education conducted the workshop, reinforcing their efforts with
printed materials. As a followup to the workshop, a coalition (the
Lead Umbrella) was created to develop a comprehensive plan to
educate members of communities affected by the issue and work to
eliminate childhood lead poisoning in the community of
Birmingham.
Partners: Citizens' Lead Education and Elimination Project, Alabama
Contact: Region 4, Janie Foy, 404-562-4300
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Title: Elevated Blood Lead Levels - Region 5 States
Description: Region 5 has finalized a report entitled County and Zip Code Blood-
Lead Data for Children Under Six Years of Age Testing Above Ten
Micrograms Per Deciliter in Region 5 States. This study, compiled
in cooperation with all six state health departments, presents data on
the numbers of reported cases of children with elevated blood lead
levels across the region, broken out by county and zip code, and
displayed on geographic information system (GIS) maps. The
Region has also completed lead assessments in each of its five
Geographic Initiative Areas in conjunction with community-based
programs and organizations. The GIS maps and the community lead
assessments are being applied to help target program efforts toward
those areas of greatest need.
Contact: Region 5, Phil King, 312-353-9062
Title: Outreach to Migrant Farm Worker Health Promoters on Reducing
Lead Exposure Risks to Children
Description: In August 1999, EPA staff conducted lead exposure risk reduction
training in Spanish for health promoters of the Community Health
Partnership of Illinois. The health promoters are current or former
migrant farm workers who now also work as health educators
among the migrant farm worker community in the area around
Momence, Illinois.
Contact: Region 5, Edward Master, 312-353-5830
Title: Environmental WATCH Small Grants
Description: Region 5 issued small, community-based grants that promote
children's environmental health and pollution prevention to organi-
zations that participated in the Environmental Workshop on Actions
to Take for Children's Health (WATCH). In the area of lead poison-
ing awareness and prevention, the organization—Improving Kids'
Environment in Indiana—received funding for a Lead Poisoning and
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Pollution Prevention project. As part of the project, cooperative
agreements will be developed with paint suppliers who will teach
homeowners about lead hazards. The Oak Park Health Department
in Illinois will carry out lead poisoning awareness and training of
code enforcement officers and building inspectors.
Contact: Region 5, Holly Wirick, 312-353-6704
Title: Lead Poisoning Prevention and Control Training
Description: In September 1999, Region 6 awarded a grant to the Deep South
Center for Environmental Justice, located at Xavier University. This
grant will help to develop a community "train the trainer" program
for lead poisoning awareness. Fifty community leaders will be
trained on the hazards of lead-based paint, who then will organize
several community forums to train residents on how they can protect
their children from lead poisoning. Two Environmental Justice
communities in the New Orleans area will be targeted for this
program.
Partners: Deep South Center for Environmental Justice at Xavier University
Contact: Region 6, Paula Flores-Gregg, 214-665-8123
Title: TSCA Section 406(b) Pre-Renovation Notification Rule
Description: EPA Region 6 has been actively working with trade associations,
hardware stores, local governments, and state government agencies
to spread the word about the Federal Pre-Renovation Notification
Rule. Region 6 has begun mailing thousands of letters directly to
renovation and remodeling contractors in rural areas throughout the
region to notify them about the requirements of the rule and where
they can obtain information on how to comply with the rule.
Contact: Region 6, Jeff Robinson, 214-665-7577
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Title: Region 7 Lead-Based Paint Activities
Description: Region 7 conducted a variety of lead outreach and technical assis-
tance activities. It provided technical assistance to states, tribes,
regulated communities, and concerned citizens, including participat-
ing in 34 outreach meetings for landlords, not-for-profit groups,
childcare centers, and health fairs.
• It conducted quarterly meetings with the states and tribes to
provide updates on federal, state, and tribal programs, and to
discuss issues and resolutions on a regional level.
• It provided compliance assistance to trainers regarding a new
Accreditation, Training, and Certification Rule. It worked
closely with four tribes that conduct ongoing lead hazard reduc-
tion programs.
• It presented a "brown bag" outreach session to Region 7
employees on disclosure requirements for sale or lease of resi-
dential property.
• It conducted outreach to childcare centers, county health depart-
ments, WIC programs, and other regional offices.
• It participated in home shows, health fairs, Earth Day activities,
and other environmental outreach activities; conducted mass
mailings on all of the new lead regulations, and developed a
Web page to discuss lead regulations with the regulated
community and supply links to other agencies that have federal
lead program responsibilities.
• In efforts to reduce children's blood lead levels, Region 7's
Superfund program has removed lead-contaminated yard soil
from a total of 1,600 homes and childcare facilities in
Southwest Missouri and Southeast Kansas. The program plans
to remove lead-contaminated soil from nearly 100 homes and
childcare facilities in Omaha, Nebraska in FY 2000.
• In St. Francois County Missouri, EPA, HUD, the State and
County Health Departments, and area mining companies have
partnered to address the multiple exposure routes of lead (e.g.,
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paint, dust, yard soils, etc.) in homes of children with elevated
blood levels. At homes where EPA is considering the cleanup
of yard soils, the Missouri Department of Health, using funds
from a HUD grant, and the mining companies are addressing
interior lead cleanup, thus providing a holistic approach to
reducing blood lead levels in children.
• Jasper and Newton counties (in Missouri) are developing a
joint Environmental Master Plan to address environmental
problems in the region on a holistic basis. This plan is being
developed as a direct result of the community's involvement in
Superfund lead cleanup and the heightened concern for limita-
tions on development due to environmental problems.
Contact: Region 7, Mazzie Talley, 913-551-7518
Title: Local Lead Awareness Campaign
Description: EPA funded this project to raise awareness of the hazards of lead
poisoning and the necessity of screening children age 6 and under.
The project changes the approach to the management of cases of
exposure to implement intervention at the community level. It
targets the population of children at risk through prevention, rather
than confining itself to the care of the individual child suffering
from lead poisoning. Key partnerships with local media increase the
number of people the program can reach.
Partners: Cerro Gordo County Department of Public Health, Iowa; KLSS
radio; KISS-TV
Contact: Region 7, Lori Walker, 913-551 -7926
Title: Region 9 Lead Poisoning Prevention
Description: The Region 9 Lead Program has developed partnerships with state
and local children's health programs and community advocacy
groups, allowing the region to better focus efforts on reducing lead
hazards for children at greatest risk (lower income families in older
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housing). The Region continues to conduct extensive outreach on the
issues of childhood lead poisoning, the regulatory requirements in
the lead-based paint disclosure rule, the remodeling notification rule,
and the training and certification regulations. The Region established
lead training and certification programs in Arizona, Hawaii, and
Nevada.
Contact: Region 9, Paula Bisson, 415-744-1128
Title: Community-Based Lead Projects in Oregon
Description: Region 10 works with the Oregon Health Division to support
community-based lead screening projects and environmental investi-
gations. This program focuses on two activities: (1) blood lead
testing for children at risk for lead poisoning who are without
resources to pay for this testing and (2) reimbursement of county
health departments for environmental investigations for children
with high blood lead levels. These funds are projected to cover the
cost of 350 to 460 blood lead tests, 15 to 16 environmental investi-
gations, and 32 sets of environmental samples.
Contact: Region 10, Barbara Ross, 206-553-1985
Title: Urban League Lead Outreach Program
Description: Region 10 is working with the Urban League of Portland to expand
the Urban League's lead outreach program to Portland's other
distinct, at-risk communities: Spanish-language, recent immigrant,
and labor communities. The overall goals are to encourage informed
communities to access public-sector and other community-based
programs, and to be involved in the policy decisions and develop-
ment of strategies for lead poisoning prevention.
Contact: Region 10, Mike Letourneau, 206-553-1687
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Title: Lead Hazard Reduction Act Compliance, Oregon
Description: Region 10 collaborated with the Oregon Health Division (OHD),
The Urban League of Portland, the Oregon Environmental Council
(OEC), the Environmental Justice Action Group (EJAG), the
Coalition of Black Men (COBM), Physicians for Social
Responsibility (PSR), the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban
Development, Oregon Legal Services (OLS), the City of Portland
Bureau of Environmental Services (BES), the Oregon Child
Development Coalition (OCDC), and the Multnomah County Health
Department to support compliance with the Lead Hazard Reduction
Act and to develop a Statewide Comprehensive Plan for Oregon.
Contacts: Region 10, Barbara Ross, 206-553-1985, or Kirstin Andersen, 206-
553-0244
Title: "Runs Better Unleaded" Bus Campaign
Description: Region 10 ran a bus advertising campaign in Portland and Yakima
from September 1 through October 31, 1999. The campaign encour-
aged parents to call the Lead Hotline (1-800-424-LEAD) or access
the EPA lead Web site (http://www.epa.gov/lead) for information on
preventing childhood lead exposure. The EPA posters depicted chil-
dren playing, with the text "Runs Better Unleaded" superimposed.
Plans are under way to repeat this campaign with Spanish-language
posters.
Contacts: Region 10, Barbara Ross, 206-553-1985, or Robert Jacobson, 206-
553-1203
Title: Tri-Regional Lead Conference
Description: Representatives of western states and tribes met in mid-October
1999 in Portland, Oregon, to discuss lessons learned in implement-
ing state and tribal lead programs. States and tribes represented
included Oregon, Idaho, Washington, California, Hawaii, Utah,
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Crow, Umatilla, Colville, Yankton Sioux, Blackfeet, Chippewa Cree,
and Flandreau Santee Sioux. In addition, private lead consultants,
painting contractors, training providers, and EPA Regional and head-
quarters staff were in attendance.
Contacts: Region 10, Barbara Ross, 206-553-1985, or Kirstin Andersen, 206-
553-0244
Title: Advance Notice of Funds Available for Lead Grant Program for
Indian Tribes
Description: Region 10 staff have been working to notify tribes in Alaska, Idaho,
Oregon, and Washington about new grant funds available exclusive-
ly for Indian tribes. The primary purpose of this grant program is to
fund tribal blood lead screening of children and educational outreach
activities to encourage Indian tribes to consider continuing such
activities in the future. EPA plans to award 25 to 50 grants for
amounts in the range of $15,000 to $50,000 each.
Contact: Region 10, Barbara Ross, 206-553-1985, or Kirstin Andersen, 206-
553-0244
Title: Focused Outreach to Realtors
Description: Region 10 mailed compliance assistance letters with information
about the Disclosure Rule to approximately 700 real estate firms in
the region. In the letter, it was stated that Region 10 is conducting
Disclosure Rule inspections, and that the real estate firm may be
subject to the rule. Additionally, Region 10 staff exhibited and
presented information about lead paint hazards at the Portland Home
Show, the Portland Home and Garden Show, the Federal Facilities
Conference, the Nisqually Indian Health Fair, the Washington
Council of Painting and Decorating Constructors, the Lead Summit
Meeting, the National Association of Real Estate Property
Managers, the Washington Realtors Convention, the Shoshone
County Realtors, the Peoples Coalition in Silver Valley, the Real
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Estate Conference in Silver Valley, the King Dome Home Show in
Seattle, and the Puyallup Home Decorating and Remodeling Show.
Contact: Region 10, Barbara Ross, 206-553-1985
Title: Preventing Lead Exposure in Northern Idaho
Description: Region 10 has been working with the Agency for Toxic Substances
and Disease Registry, the State of Idaho, and the Panhandle Health
District to prevent childhood exposures to widespread lead contami-
nation in soil resulting from decades of lead production in Northern
Idaho. Sampling is conducted at residences, schools, childcare
providers, and parks. Results from a 1999 survey indicate that blood
lead levels continue to decline at the Bunker Hill Superfund Site, but
remain unacceptably high in the communities upstream of Bunker
Hill. The Panhandle Health District has followed up with all of the
families of children with elevated blood lead levels. Lead-contami-
nated soil was removed and replaced with clean soil at 26 residential
properties, three schools, and one park. Water filters were installed
at 10 homes with high levels of lead in their drinking water; future
plans include providing safe, municipally supplied water to these
homes. Lead-contaminated recreational sites also have been identi-
fied and remediation efforts are under way.
Contacts: Region 10, Roseanne Lorenzana, 206-553-8002
Title: Yakima County, Childhood Lead Poisoning Reduction Program
Description: EPA has provided funding to the Washington State Department of
Health to supplement its work on education of low-income and
minority homeowners on how to reduce lead poisoning of children.
Part of the funds will be to print copies of a Spanish-language
fotonovella, a picture book that shows ways a family can reduce
lead exposure to children. The bulk of the funding will go toward
development of PSA radio spots for airing on an all-Spanish radio
station in Granger, Washington.
Contact: Region 10, Dan Robison, 509-575-5845
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Endocrine Disrupters
Title: Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals Theme
Description: Researchers have identified and are investigating several Endocrine
Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) that primarily target the reproductive
systems of developing (i.e., in pregnancy, perinatal, or pubertal
stages) and adult animals. The goals of this research include identifi-
cation of molecular mechanisms of toxicant action.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, David Otto, 919-966-6226
Title:
Description:
Contact:
PCBs
Title:
Description:
Receptor and Signal Transduction Pathways in Developmental
Toxicity
Environmental estrogens and endocrine disrupters interfere with
reproduction and development through mechanisms that involve
altered expression and/or function of steroid receptors and endocrine
hormones that bind to these receptors. These agents can also produce
deleterious biological responses through effects on gene cascades
that regulate and/or respond to endocrine signaling. EPA is investi-
gating these mechanisms of developmental toxicity.
Office of Research and Development, Linda Birnbaum, 919-541-
2655
PCBs in Schools
Region 10 is collaborating with the Oregon State School Boards
Association to address the hazards of PCBs in schools, specifically
PCB regulations applicable to the storage, treatment, and disposal of
fluorescent light ballasts. A case study based on four 1999 PCB
inspections in the West Linn-Wilsonville School District is being
used as a teaching tool in conjunction with a newly developed infor-
mational brochure entitled Safe and Correct Handling of PCBs Is
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Contact:
Mercury
Title:
Description:
Contact:
Title:
Description:
Your Responsibility. Region-wide outreach on PCBs in schools is
planned for later this year.
Region 10, Dan Duncan, 206-553-6693, or Gretchen Schmidt, 206-
553-2587
Environmental WATCH Small Grants
Region 5 issued small, community-based grants that promote chil-
dren's environmental health and pollution prevention to
organizations that participated in the Environmental Workshop on
Actions to Take for Children's Health. The Fond du Lac Band of
Chippewa, Minnesota, was funded to conduct a thermometer
exchange with residents to replace mercury thermometers with
mercury-free thermometers. This will complement activities to
prevent illegal dumping of solid waste.
Region 5, Holly Wirick, 312-353-6704
Elemental Mercury Exposures in Children: A Workshop to Examine
the Scope of the Problem and Opportunities for Prevention
On June 23, 1999, Region 5 and the Agency for Toxic Substances
and Disease Registry (ATSDR) sponsored a 1-day workshop,
"Elemental Mercury Exposures in Children: A Workshop to
Examine the Scope of the Problem and Opportunities for
Prevention." The specific goals of the workshop were to (1) share
and compile current information on the potential sources that have
resulted in exposure or the potential for elemental mercury exposure
in children; (2) identify what is being done in the region to prevent
acute exposure to mercury; and (3) determine how EPA, ATSDR,
state health and environmental agencies, and their partners can
further reduce the potential for elemental mercury exposure to chil-
dren. Speakers represented a wide range of experts from state health,
environmental, and agricultural agencies, as well as physicians from
the Children's Center for Environmental Health at Cook County
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Contact:
Hospital, Chicago, Illinois. Attending the workshop were more than
60 people, including representatives of state and local health and
environmental agencies, industry (American Drugstores), and poison
control centers.
Region 5, Colleen Olsberg, 312-353-4686
Other Research
Title: Developmental and Reproductive Toxicology (DART) Database
Description: An Interagency Agreement among EPA, the National Institute of
Environmental Health Sciences, the National Center for
Toxicological Research, and the National Library of Medicine
supports the further development of the National Library of
Medicine's DART database. DART contains references to and
abstracts of published literature on agents that may cause birth
defects and other developmental disorders. DART contains approxi-
mately 37,000 references. Including an earlier reference source,
nearly 80,000 references to the developmental toxicity literature
from 1959 to the present are available. In addition to references on
drugs and environmental chemicals, DART contains information on
biological and physical agents that have been tested for developmen-
tal and reproductive toxicity.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Jim Cogliano, 202-564-3269
Title: Heat Shock Model (Mechanisms) for Developmental Toxicity
Description: This project is part of a larger collaborative effort among EPA and
three academic institutions to develop biologically based dose-
response models for developmental toxicity effects. Recent studies in
this effort have begun to examine the cellular events that control the
developmental process, including genetic expression, cell growth
and cell death, and protein synthesis. The current project extends
these findings by further defining the cellular responses and their
relationship to developmental problems.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Gary Kimmel, 202-564-3308
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Title: Biologically Based Dose-Response Modeling of Developmental
Toxicity
Description: This research focuses on developing models to describe in quantita-
tive terms the relationship between biological processes and the
development of adverse developmental outcomes. These models
consider the physiologic and mechanistic factors that lead to adverse
outcomes and evaluate the effects of varying route, dose, dose-rate,
etc. This research is anticipated to advance the scientific basis for
human health risk assessment.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Robert Kavlock, 919-541-
2771
Title: Texas Neural Tube Defect Project
Description: This is a 4-year case-control study of risk factors for neural tube
defects (NTDs) in 14 counties along the Texas-Mexico border. An
anticipated outcome of this project is the identification of unique
biological indicators of environmental exposure, genetic susceptibili-
ty, and gene-environment interaction that lead to the development of
NTDs in a Hispanic high-risk population.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, David Otto, 919-966-6226
Title: Cellular and Molecular Markers of Developmental Neurotoxicity
Description: This project will improve testing for developmental neurotoxicity,
by developing a number of cellular and molecular markers that can
be used to identify hazardous substances. This project uses proteins
found in nervous system cells as indicators of neural damage or
alteration in critical phases of nervous system development. The
effects of known developmental neurotoxins on selected
cellular/molecular processes at critical periods of development will
be determined.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Hugh Tilson, 919-541-2671
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l^s—-3»'"I
Title: Environmental Exposures and Human Neurological Function
Description: Valid tests of sensory, motor, cognitive, and affective functions are
needed to determine the neurotoxic potential of environmental expo-
sures. This project involves the development, modification, and
validation of behavioral and nerve cell tests and test methods for
evaluating effects of nerve cell neurotoxins on neurological function
in children and adults.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Hugh Tilson, 919-541 -2671
Title: Role of Apoptosis in Developmental Toxicity
Description: The goal of this research project is to better understand the mecha-
nism responsible for apoptosis (cell death) in the embryo. The
current focus is on the role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) as a
possible inducer of apoptosis. Because of the relationship between
the regulation of cell cycle and the induction of cell death, an impor-
tant component of this research will focus on cell cycle changes
produced in the embryo.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Robert Kavlock, 919-541-
2771
Title: Improved Evaluation of Gamete Function
Description: New and more specific reproductive endpoints, including direct
measures of sperm motion and structure, are now requirements spec-
ified in the new EPA Harmonized Reproductive Test Guidelines.
This research aims to improve methods for these measures, with
emphasis on using advanced computer technology to make these
measures more objective and practical.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Robert Kavlock, 919-541-
2771
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Title: Molecular Characterization of a Biological Threshold in
Developmental Toxicity
Description: The goal of this research is to characterize, in molecular terms, the
biological basis of a threshold (a minimum level that causes effects)
in developmental toxicity. The data generated will be incorporated
into computer simulations to help risk assessors predict when a
prenatal environmental exposure might trigger birth defects.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Chris Saint, 202-564-6909
Title: Using Biomarkers of Exposure and Neurobehavioral Test Batteries
to Assess Children's Neurological Vulnerability to Residential
Exposure to Tetrachloroethene (Perc)
Description: EPA considers perc a problematic pollutant in urban areas. The
objectives of this study are to (1) assess perc exposure and neurolog-
ical vulnerability of children and adults by measuring personal air
and indicators of dose in exhaled breath, blood, and urine; (2) deter-
mine the relationship between environmental perc concentrations
and biological indicators of dose; (3) assess behavioral functions in
the exposed and unexposed groups; and (4) determine if dose-
response relationships exist between the environmental and/or
biological measures of exposure and neurological effects. The
research will take into account age, gender, and activity levels. The
data can be used to assess and compare neurological risk of perc
exposure in children and adults, evaluate susceptibility to support
human health risk assessment for perc neurotoxicity, and
establish/assess a reference concentration (RfC) for perc.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Chris Saint, 202-564-6909
Title: Childhood Risk Assessment at Superfund Sites
Description: The Region 3 Superfund Program has been concerned about the
potential health effects that hazardous waste sites may have on
sensitive subpopulations—including children. Risk assessments
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which are designed specifically for children are routinely performed.
These assessments include a consideration of factors which identify
children as being different from adults, such as body weight, inhala-
tion rate, their proximity to the ground, and food and water intake.
Potential routes of exposure to hazardous waste which might be
specific for children are also considered, including playing in dirt
and wading in surface water. The health effects of lead are analyzed
with models specifically designed to predict blood lead levels in
children under six years of age. Teenage children are also routinely
considered in the event that they may play, ride bikes, etc. on acces-
sible hazardous waste sites. Frequently, the decision to clean up a
site is based on potential risks to children. As a result of these meas-
ures, the Region is confident that children's health has been protected
at the hundreds of Superfund sites that have been cleaned up so far
and that the Region's actions will continue to be protective of
children.
Contact: Region 3, Lynn Flowers, 215-814-3115
Title: Shoalwater Bay Indian Tribe Reproductive Health
Description: In 1992, Region 10 learned that over 90 percent of pregnancies in
the Shoalwater Bay Indian Tribe between 1990 and 1992 had ended
in miscarriage, stillbirth, or infant death within the first year of life.
In 1993, a Health Advisory Board was formed for the tribe, consist-
ing of physicians, toxicologists, epidemiologists, and other health
professionals. To investigate a possible environmental cause, a
special team of Region 10 scientists and field staff gathered informa-
tion, conducted onsite investigations, and analyzed samples. Results
of the research were published in an EPA document, The Shoalwater
Bay Reservation: A Limited Environmental Assessment 1994-1995
(EPA Publication 910/R-96-013). As a result of the EPA study, the
tribe is receiving high-level attention by relevant health professionals
and epidemiologists. In addition, the tribe has been able to fund and
build a new health clinic which has greatly improved the level of
medical care for all tribal members. Through funding from EPA and
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others, the Shoal waters also have recently developed their own envi-
ronmental laboratory.
Partners: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, University of
Washington School of Medicine, Indian Health Service, Agency for
Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, American Medical
Association, Washington State Department of Health
Contact: Region 10, Roseanne Lorenzana, 206-553-8002
References
1. NRC. 1993. Pesticides in the Diets of Infants and Children. National Research
Council. Washington, DC: National Academy Press.
2. Needleman, H.L., and C.A. Gastonis. 1990. Low-Level Lead Exposure and the
IQ of Children: A Meta-Analysis of Modern Studies. Journal of American
Medical Association. Volume 263, Pages 673-678.
3. Bellinger, D., A. Leviton, and C. Waternaux. 1987. Longitudinal Analysis of
Prenatal and Postnatal Lead Exposure and Early Cognitive Development. New
England Journal of Medicine. Volume 316, Pages 1037-1043.
4. Needleman, H.L., A. Schnell, and D. Bellinger. 1990. The Long-Term Effects
of Exposure to Low Doses of Lead in Childhood: 11-Year Follow-Up Report.
New England Journal of Medicine. Volume 322, Pages 83-88.
5. McLaughlin, J.G., R.W. Telzrow, and C.M. Scott. 1980. Neonatal Mercury
Vapor Exposure in an Infant Incubator. Pediatrics. Volume 66, Number 6,
Pages 988-990.
6. Maker, E.L., T.J. Smith, and PL. Landrigan. The Neurotoxicity of Industrial
Solvents: A Review of the Literature. American Journal of Industrial
Medicine. Volume 8, Pages 207-217.
7. ATSDR. 1997. Healthy Children—Toxic Environments. Report of the Child
Health Workgroup. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public
Health Service, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry.
8. CDC. 1997. Update: Blood Lead Levels—United States, 1991-1994.
Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report. Center for Disease Control and
Prevention. Volume 46, Number 7, Pages 141-145.
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Health Effects of
Pesticides
Pesticides are a concern for children because of their widespread use and children's
special vulnerabilities. Children can be exposed to pesticides in their diets and
drinking water, or through activities at home, play, and school. Potential health
effects of pesticide exposure include cancer, acute and chronic injury to the nervous
system, lung damage, reproductive dysfunction, and possibly dysfunction of the
endocrine and immune systems.(1,2)
The 1996 Food Quality Protection Act (FQPA) includes specific regulatory require-
ments to protect susceptible members of the population, including children, from
pesticide residues in food. EPA regulates pesticide residues in food through a
system of standards called food tolerances. Under FQPA, the Agency will reassess
approximately 10,000 existing pesticide tolerances and will focus first on those
pesticides that pose the greatest hazards.
EPA has announced cancellation agreements and risk reduction strategies to
increase protections for American families and their children from risks posed by
two of the oldest, most widely used chemical compounds that remain in use as
pesticides today. EPA is eliminating use of methyl parathion on all fruits and many
vegetables. The Agency is reducing application rates of azinphos methyl and requir-
ing practices that will result in significant reductions in allowable residues on
apples, pears, and peaches. The Agency also recently announced an action to
eliminate major uses of the pesticide Dursban.
EPA is calling for new studies of neurological and developmental effects on
hundreds of pesticides to better understand their effects on children. These studies
will allow EPA to evaluate pesticides more protectively than ever before.
In addition, EPA has committed to a number of activities to spread the word about
adverse effects of pesticide exposure on children below the age of 12 who work in
agriculture or are otherwise present in pesticide-treated fields. These activities
include:
• Using community mentors and parents to communicate pesticide health and
safety concepts to farm worker children at the Young Workers Academy in
Brownsville, Texas, a pilot project which can serve as a national model.
• Expanding earlier efforts with the Hispanic Radio Network to convey informa-
tion to Spanish-speaking agricultural workers.
• Increasing pesticide safety training through cooperative efforts with AmeriCorps
and existing grants to develop pesticide health and safety curricula in elemen-
tary schools.
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• Exploring the possibility of requiring label-specific language prohibiting chil-
dren (age specified) in pesticide-treated fields, as well as label language
specifying the full range of potential health effects of concern.
It is important to fully assess whether farm worker children are currently at risk
from pesticide exposure and, if so, to properly address that risk. This is being
carried out in a number of ways, including:
• Conducting a national assessment of the Worker Protection Standard with the
help of non-governmental stakeholders.
• Examining information EPA has collected for other purposes to determine if it
might be relevant to learning about exposure of children in agricultural settings.
EPA Projects on Health Effects of Pesticides
Strengthened Standards and Better Public Information
Title: Proposed Labeling Restriction for Insect Repellents used on Infants
and Children
Description: On May 10, 2000, EPA proposed restrictions on the labeling of
insect repellents marketed for use on infants and children. The
proposed changes are part of a draft Pesticide Registration (PR)
Notice, which will be available on EPAs web site at
www.epa.gov/pesticides/biopesticides. The Agency is concerned that
packaging and labeling specifically targeted to children (e.g., "for
children" or "for kids") may encourage inappropriate handling and
use by children. In many cases, such labeling contradicts directions
or precautions on the same product labels (usually in much smaller
print) that prohibit such handling and use by children. EPA believes
that labeling targeted for infants and children may be misleading to
parents because these products are not formulated differently for
children than they are for adults.
EPA is also proposing restrictions on the use of food fragrances and
colors in insect repellents. The Agency is concerned that insect
repellents made with food fragrances and colors (e.g., grape, water-
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melon, orange) and packaged with graphics of the same food may
encourage children to eat the product. The draft PR Notice outlines
the proposed procedure and time frame for registrants to make
changes to the labels of currently registered insect repellents with
claims targeting use on infants and children, and to reformulate
products that contain food colors or fragrances. Under this policy,
EPA would not allow registrants to sell or distribute products that do
not follow these restrictions as of March 1, 2001, and existing stocks
may be sold or distributed by others only until March 1, 2003. A
Federal Register Notice announcing the availability of the PR
Notice is also available on EPAs Web site at the above address. A
final PR Notice is expected by the end of 2000.
Contact: Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances, Robyn Rose,
703-308-9581
Title: Cockroaches, Kids and Asthma Video
Description: EPA developed a video with the American Lung Association for the
"Open Airways" program on how cockroaches can trigger asthma in
young children, and how to prevent cockroaches from entering the
home.
Contact: Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances, Ralph
Wright, 703-308-3273
Title: One Way to Increase the Commitment: Conference on the Food
Quality Protection Act
Description: The March 1999 conference was designed for food producers,
commodity groups, state and federal regulators, and others focused
on issues, such as pesticide-related risk assessments, implementation
of the Food Quality Protection Act, and data needs. Panel discus-
sions were held on such topics as crop profiles, the U.S. Food and
Drug Administration's monitoring program, and the impact of pesti-
cides on drinking water and university activities.
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Partners: University of Massachusetts Extension, Massachusetts Department
of Food and Agriculture, other New England state cooperative
extension systems and pesticide regulatory agencies.
Contact: Region 1, Rob Koethe, 617-918-1535
Title: Bilingual (English/Spanish) Pesticide Safety Bingo Game
Description: During FY 1998, Region 6 developed an Urban Initiative project to
reduce the misuse of pesticides among urban, inner city, and non-
English-speaking groups. The resulting product is the Bilingual
(English/Spanish) Pesticide Safety Bingo Game for elementary
school children. In March 1999, the Bingo Game was pilot-tested in
the Dallas Metroplex area in elementary schools (grades 1 through
6). Following game participation, students showed a 97 percent
retention rate of material presented. Once demonstration game pack-
ets are completed, the game will be provided to Region 6 State
Education Agencies for their review and approval. Region 6 antici-
pates eventual incorporation of the Bingo Game into the states'
supplemental school curricula.
Partners: Texas School Systems, Parent-Teacher Associations, Texas
Education Agency
Contact: Region 6, Sarah Perham, 214-665-2752
Title: Determining the Effectiveness of a Pesticide Risk Reduction
Program for Migrant Farm Workers in Colorado
Description: This project is an evaluation of pesticide safety training provided to
farm workers, which includes information about how to prevent
exposure to children and other family members. The evaluation used
a structured interview and observations of work practices to deter-
mine how training influenced the knowledge and behavior of
migrant workers related to pesticide safety.
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Partners: Colorado State University Department of Environmental Health
Contact: Region 8, Debbie Kovacs, 303-312-6020
Title: Farm Worker Safety in San Luis Obispo, California
Description: The Environmental Center of San Luis Obispo (ECOSLO) will work
to minimize environmental health risks facing farm workers and to
facilitate and improve communication and coordination among the
county's environmental health stakeholders and farm worker support
groups. Three hundred farm workers and their families will be
surveyed to provide information to regulatory officials, public agen-
cies, and nonprofit service organizations on household hazardous
materials and pesticide use. Survey participants will be drawn from
Migrant Head Start, Promotoras Comunitarias (a nonprofit support
program for Latina women), and FUERZA (a county nonprofit
Latino support organization).
Contacts: Region 9, Raymond Chavira, 415-744-1926, or Norman Calero,
415-744-1586
Support for Integrated Pest Management
Title: IPM in School Projects
Description: Through EPA's Pesticide Environmental Stewardship Program
(PESP) Grant, the University of Florida Web site
(http://www.ifas.ufl.edu/~schoolipm/) was designed to assist schools
and other organizations develop pesticide stewardship programs. In
addition, a National Directory of IPM in School Web site
(http://www.epa.gov/reg5foia/pest/matilla/ipm.html) has been creat-
ed to assist individuals with finding specific information about each
state IPM program, as well as appropriate IPM state contacts. The
IPM in Schools Web site is at http://www.epa.gov/pesticides/ipm.
Contact: Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances, Sarah
Roman, 703-305-5475
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Title: IPM in Schools Training/Workshops
Description: EPA is considering the need to institute national training require-
ments for any applicators who apply pesticides in certain sensitive
areas, such as schools and hospitals. A Pesticide Regulators
Education Program (PREP) training course on IPM in schools was
held in April 1999. The course is being repeated in mid-April in
East Lansing, Michigan. A national workshop on IPM/Schools
Implementation was sponsored by EPA in March 1999.
Contact: Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances, Jim Boland,
703-308-8738
Title: Educational Photoliterature on Pesticide Misuse
Description: An integrated pest management specialist from the New York State
Department of Health will develop a photoliterature document to
educate low-literacy urban populations on the dangers of misusing
pesticides. This document will be translated into Spanish and
Chinese to help the Region reach more of the population in need.
Contact: Region 2, Rachel Chaput, 212-637-4001
Title: Pesticide Regulatory Education Program
Description: EPA Region 5 sponsored a Pesticide Regulatory Education Program
(PREP) in Detroit in April 1999 to educate state regulators on IPM
in schools. EPA also created a Web page to provide easy public
access to a list of state authorities on IPM in schools for each of the
Region 5 states.
Contact: Region 5, Don Baumgartner, 312-886-7835
Title: Environmental WATCH Small Grants
Description: EPA issued small, community-based grants promoting children's
environmental health and pollution prevention to organizations that
participated in the Environmental WATCH. The City of Milwaukee
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Health Department received funding for an Integrated Pest
Management in Schools project.
Contact: Region 5, Holly Wirick, 312-353-6704
Title: Reducing Use of Pesticides in Schools
Description: EPA Region 9 has awarded a $30,500 grant to the Pajaro Valley
Unified School District to assist them in reducing the use of chemi-
cals for pest management on school grounds. The District has
assembled a committee of parents, teachers, and district staff to work
with EPA to find alternative methods for controlling indoor and
outdoor pests at all school sites. The committee is holding meetings
at each site to explain IPM and to gain support for the project.
Information developed in this project should be useful for other
districts in the region.
Contact: Region 9, Mary Grisier, 415-744-1095
Title: IPM in Schools
Description: The IPM in Schools program offers a variety of resources to schools
concerned about using pesticides and herbicides on school property.
The program offers small grants to schools to facilitate the imple-
mentation of IPM programs. The program also provides speakers,
educational videos and publications, and training courses for
grounds and maintenance personnel.
Contact: Region 10, Don Priest, 206-553-2584
Expanded Enforcement Efforts
Title: The National Urban and Residential Pesticide Control and
Enforcement Program (Urban Initiative)
Description: According to data collected from the American Association of
Poison Control Centers, in 1998 alone, an estimated 73,260 children
were involved in common household pesticide-related poisoning
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exposures in the United States. Through the Urban Initiative, EPA
and other partner agencies and organizations work cooperatively to
communicate health risks and prevent human and environmental
harm by deterring the illegal misuse of agricultural pesticides in
urban settings. Since this initiative is national in scope, educational
tools will be developed for numerous audiences including pre-
kindergarten through high school students. Communication
strategies also will be developed with organizations, such as parent-
teacher associations, church groups, 4-H, and other youth-oriented
programs. The program also helps identify misuse of methyl
parathion or other restricted-use pesticides and initiate appropriate
enforcement action. Approximately 44 state and local arrests and
two federal criminal convictions in Region 4 resulted from actions
associated with the misuse of pesticides.
Contact: Region 4, Randy Dominy, 404-562-8996
Title: Reducing Pesticide Misuse
Description: EPA is working with state partners to develop an enforcement and
public outreach strategy to eliminate the import, sale, and use of
insecticidal chalk, a product that looks like ordinary blackboard
chalk. An educational brochure highlighting the hazard to children
has been developed and distributed, and has been translated into
Spanish, Vietnamese, and Chinese. EPA also has initiated a compli-
ance assistance campaign to educate school maintenance personnel
about the importance of using registered products only and of
following label directions for safe use. EPA has filed civil
complaints against two companies selling insecticidal chalk and
three companies selling unregistered moth repellents, and has issued
a press release to publicize the risks to children.
Contact: Region 9, Kay Rudolph, 415-744-1065
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Understanding Risks to Children's Health
Title: Study of Exposure and Body Burden of Children of Different Ages
to Pesticides in the Environment
Description: This study will examine exposure to various pesticides (chlorpyrifos,
diazinon, malathion, and atrazine) and the resulting doses experi-
enced by children and adults from both rural and urban homes. The
main objective is to test the hypothesis that children have signifi-
cantly higher environmental exposures and resulting doses than do
adults living in the same homes. The study will test whether the
distribution of exposures for children living in urban environments is
different from that for children living in rural environments.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Chris Saint, 202-564-6909
Title: Ingestion of Pesticides by Children in an Agricultural Community
on the U.S.-Mexico Border
Description: An environmental measurement and correlation study will be
conducted in the area of Laredo, Texas, on the Rio Grande River.
Researchers will test hand rinses of the children and house dust for
pesticides and will measure pesticides and their metabolites in urine
samples of the children. Observations of children's behavior (hand to
mouth, hand to object, hand to surface, and object to mouth) will be
made to evaluate the possible ingestion of pesticides from environ-
mental sources. The information obtained in this study will be used
to reduce the uncertainty in risk assessments for children and
improve exposure measurements for children of different ages. The
results will identify the magnitude of potential environmental risks
to a minority population.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Chris Saint, 202-564-6909
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Title: Exposure of Children to Persistent Organic Pollutants and Pesticides
Description: This research is a larger-scale extension of several recently complet-
ed pilot studies on preschool children's exposure to persistent
organic pollutants. The aim is to obtain scientifically valid, statisti-
cally robust information that describes these children's exposures. In
this study, researchers are investigating the total exposures to persist-
ent organic compounds of pre-elementary school children through
ingestion, inhalation, and dermal absorption.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Nancy Wilson, 202-260-1910
Title: NAFTA Border Project: Pesticides and Kids
Description: The purpose of this project is to describe the relationship of health
outcomes in children along the U.S.-Mexico border with repeated
pesticide exposures via multiple sources and pathways. Researchers
will develop predictive models based on links between health
outcomes, biological indicators, and exposure data. It will be possi-
ble to use this knowledge to design appropriate intervention
strategies to reduce the risk associated with pesticide exposure.
Research will be conducted in the U.S.-Mexico border states of
Arizona, California, New Mexico, and Texas as part of the
Environmental Health Workgroup of the Border XXI Program.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Stephen Hern, 702-798-2594
Title: Microenvironmental Methods for Residential Exposure to Pesticides
Description: This research involves developing and testing methods for estimat-
ing residential exposure to pesticides, with special emphasis on
small children. These methods are needed to accurately determine
dermal and nondietary oral exposures of infants and toddlers, and
are critical to understanding total human exposure. The research
also will improve understanding of transport routes and mechanisms
for movement of pesticides from the outdoors to the indoor
environment. The long-term objective is to contribute to better
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understanding of residential exposure to pesticides, especially for
small children. The short-term objective is to assist in the develop-
ment of guidelines for the assessment of residential exposure to
pesticides.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Bob Lewis, 706-355-8629
Title: Exposure of Children to Pesticides and Toxics
Description: The Food Quality Protection Act requires that multimedia, multi-
pathway exposures be considered when setting food tolerances for
pesticides. FQPA also requires that an emphasis be placed on expo-
sures to infants and children. The overall goal of this task is to
identify those pesticides, pathways, and activities that represent the
highest potential exposures to children and to determine the factors
that influence these exposures. The research will be used to develop
methods, data, and models for evaluating aggregate exposure to
pesticides and toxic chemicals. For infants and children, methods
will be developed to account for important activities that take place
in home, school, and childcare settings.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Linda Sheldon, 919-541-2205
Title: Exposure of Children to Pesticides in Yuma County, Arizona
Description: The goal of this study is to determine whether children living in
Yuma County have greater pesticide exposure than people living
elsewhere in Arizona and whether the pathways of exposure are the
same. The specific aims of the project are to (1) measure pesticide
concentrations in water, air, and soil; (2) evaluate and compare
routes of exposure; (3) employ biological methods and screening
techniques as measures and predictors of exposure; (4) compare
pesticide exposure among children to adults and children living else-
where in Arizona; (5) develop a model for assessing exposure and
risk among children; and (6) assess the potential for health care
providers to carry out risk reduction activities.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Chris Saint, 202-564-6909
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Title:
Description:
Contact:
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Description:
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Vulnerability of Young Children to Organophosphate Pesticides and
Selected Metals Through Intermittent Exposures in Yuma County,
Arizona
The goal of this project is to accurately determine the routes and
amounts of exposure to organophosphate pesticides and metals for
young children. Researchers will measure rates of dermal contact,
and hand-to-mouth and mouthing activity among children using
videotape. They will evaluate media contacted by children (air,
house dust, hands) for concentrations of pesticides commonly used
in the area (including chlorpyrifos, diazinon, and malathion), as well
as lead, manganese, and other metals. Urine assays for specific
pesticide metabolites will be evaluated and compared to environ-
mental concentrations. The study is expected to enhance exposure
assessment models and help identify factors that minimize exposure.
Office of Research and Development, Chris Saint, 202-564-6909
Exposure of Children to Pesticide Residues
This project will address exposure and epidemiologic measures of
children's health in relation to pesticide exposure. Proposed pilot
studies include an exposure survey of school-aged children to deter-
mine if proximity to agricultural fields is associated with higher
prevalence of pesticide urinary metabolites, surveillance for pesti-
cide poisoning clusters, and studies of birth weight and infant
mortality.
Office of Research and Development, Michael Dellarco, 202-564-
3239
Interactions and Mechanisms of Pesticide Mixtures-
Risk
-Children's
This project focuses on the effects of exposure to pesticide mixtures
among animals in different age groups. The research will provide
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new data on the methods of pesticide interactions, biological meas-
ures of effects, and susceptibility for pesticide mixtures. The
dose-response data obtained can be used for extrapolation from
animals to humans for conducting risk assessment.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Femi Adeshina, 513-569-7147
Title: Pesticide Interactions Affecting Fate and Transport and Children's
Risk
Description: This project will develop a model to estimate internal dose from
intermittent exposures to multiple herbicides. Researchers will
develop a procedure for cumulative health risk assessment for repro-
ductive toxicity.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Rick Hertzberg, 404-562-8663
Title: Long-Term Potentiation as a Model System for Cognitive Function
Description: This research focuses on the alterations in cell function that accom-
pany neurotoxic exposure and effects on intellectual function. The
results could lead to improved, cost-effective test methods to exam-
ine the potential adverse effects of pesticides on learning and
memory.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Hugh Tilson, 919-541 -2671
Title: Pilot Study of Symptomatic Young Children for Pesticide Exposure
Description: This study will test methods to determine whether children's nonspe-
cific illnesses may be associated with exposure to organophosphate
pesticides. Approximately 150 children age 2 to 5 in agricultural
communities in Southern California and North Carolina with specif-
ic symptoms will be assessed for recent pesticide exposure and
elevated cholinesterase levels.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Hillel Koren, 919-966-6203
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Title: Pilot Study of Immunologic Effects of Pesticide Exposure in Infants
Description: This study will test methods for evaluating the association between
estimated insecticide exposure and immunologic, developmental,
and enzymatic outcomes. The study will use exposure assessment
methods and clinical sample collection to decide if it is practical to
include these components in a longitudinal study of a larger group.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Hillel Koren, 919-966-6203
Title: Biochemical Effects of Pesticides on the Central Nervous System
Description: This research will determine if the adverse effects of exposure to
certain pesticides during development of the central nervous system
are different from effects observed following adult exposure. The
overall objective of this project is to determine empirically the age-
related differences in sensitivity to cholinesterase inhibitors. The
research will help support the application of a safety factor for chil-
dren's health for cholinesterase-inhibiting compounds.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Hugh Tilson, 919-541-2671
Title: Cognitive Effects of Pesticide Exposure During Development
Description: This research project will evaluate the cognitive and neurochemical
effects of pesticides on memory, learning, and behavior following
developmental or adult exposure of rodents. Immediate and long-
term effects will be evaluated and attempts will be made to
associate behavioral changes with underlying alterations in brain
cholinesterase activity. The overall objective is to determine age-
related differences in response to pesticides that inhibit enzyme
activity. This research will help support the application of a safety
factor for children's health for cholinesterase-inhibiting pesticides.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Hugh Tilson, 919-541-2671
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Title: Identifying the Mode and Mechanism of Action of Atrazine on
Endocrine Function in the Female Rat
Description: The chlorotriazines, a class of pesticides, have been under Special
Review in EPAs Office of Pesticide Programs since November 1995
because of their widespread use, and because they have been report-
ed to induce mammary gland tumors. Several laboratories are
conducting research to expand knowledge of the reproductive effects
of these compounds and identify the mechanism through which
these agents have their primary effect on endocrine function.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Robert Kavlock, 919-541-
2771
Title: The Effects of Pesticides on the Immune System and Allergic
Response
Description: Researchers are examining the impact of exposure to pesticides on
the development of allergy to house dust mites in adult and young
animals to test two hypotheses: (1) that pesticide exposure promotes
development of allergic sensitization, and (2) that this effect is
greater in young than in mature rodents. Allergic sensitization is
being evaluated using immune parameters, lung inflammation, and
pulmonary hyperreactivity.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Linda Birnbaum, 919-541-
2655
Title: Perinatal Exposure of Rats to Toxic Chemicals and Pesticides and
the Effects on Immune Function Development
Description: In this study, researchers are evaluating immune function and lymph
cells at various ages following perinatal exposure to pesticides or
toxic chemicals. This will determine if developmental exposure
results in persistent alterations in the immune system.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Linda Birnbaum, 919-541-
2655
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Title: A Study of Childhood Pesticide Poisoning in the Lower Rio Grande
Valley
Description: This study will investigate pesticide poisoning reports in children 6
years of age or younger in the Lower Rio Grande Valley and select-
ed non-border counties in Texas. The study will evaluate whether
these children are at an increased risk for pesticide poisoning, identi-
fy risk factors associated with childhood poisoning, and develop
intervention/prevention strategies for reducing pesticide poisoning in
this population.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, David Otto, 919-966-6226
Title: Non-Occupational Pesticide Illness Surveillance
Description: This is a study in Texas to determine illness associated with the non-
occupational exposure to pesticides. The goals are to better direct
intervention efforts, identify risk factors, and determine the feasibili-
ty of expanding the program to other border states. This study
includes both adults and children.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, David Otto, 919-966-6226
Title: Pesticide Exposure and Health Effects in Young Children along the
U.S.-Mexico Border
Description: Researchers are examining the risks and possible health effects from
persistent exposure to pesticides via multiple sources and pathways
in children living along the U.S.-Mexico border. A three-phase
approach is being used. In Phase I, pesticide usage and associated
health data along the border were reviewed. Geographic information
systems are being used to identify agricultural areas to aid in the
study design. A workshop on health effects assessment in young
children was held to review health endpoints appropriate for use in
the project. In Phase II, infants and young children in Yuma,
Arizona, and Imperial County, California, will be screened for
evidence of pesticide exposure. Phase III will include a more
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i; I Contact:
complete monitoring of children classified as "high-end exposures"
in Phase II. An epidemiologic study will be linked to these efforts to
examine specific hypotheses about the impact of pesticide exposure
on health status/outcome of children.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Hal Zenick, 919-541-2671
Title: Neurobehavioral Characterization of Susceptible Populations and
Pesticide Neurotoxicity
Description: There is concern that neurological development of children may be
adversely affected following exposure to pesticides. This project
involves dose-response and time-course comparisons of the behav-
ioral and biochemical effects of cholinesterase-inhibiting pesticides
as a function of age (using rats at ages representing toddlers, pre-
adolescents, and young adults) and gender. These studies will
examine the effects of pesticide exposure using a battery of neuro-
logical tests at various times after acute exposure. This research will
provide direct support for the application of applying a safety factor
for children's health.
Office of Research and Development, Hugh Tilson, 919-541-2671
Title: Metabolic Basis for Age-Dependent Effects of Pesticides
Description: Several studies have found that younger animals are more sensitive
to the toxic effects of pesticides, particularly pesticides that inhibit
acetylcholinesterase. This project examines factors that may be
responsible for differences in the sensitivity of young versus adult
animals to high-volume, high-use cholinesterase-inhibiting pesti-
cides. Once identified, the factors contributing to the differential age
sensitivities will be applied to predict changes in children. This work
will address the applicability of applying a safety factor for children
in risk assessments for this class of pesticides.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Hugh Tilson, 919-541-2671
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Title: Assessment of Urban Residential Exposure to 2,4-D
Description: This study will examine actual exposure to 2,4-D of Ft. Collins,
Colorado, residents and their children through biomonitoring at two
different times of year. The study will also correlate actual exposure
with perceived exposure and possible sources of exposure in the
urban or residential setting.
Partners: Colorado State University Department of Environmental Health
Contact: Region 8, Debbie Kovacs, 303-312-6020
Title: Pesticides at the Border
Description: EPA Region 9 is participating on the San Diego Advisory
Committee for the California Department of Health Services
(CDHS) outreach project. Their report, Pesticide Use in California,
analyzed pesticide use levels around schools in Imperial and San
Diego Counties. CDHS collected information about pesticide use
along the U.S.-Mexico Border as part of an EPA research effort on
pesticides' health effects in children at the border. EPA published a
brief summary of the findings, and CDHS published a more detailed
report. CDHS is planning an outreach effort to educate the public
about the report, and has established Advisory Committees in both
Imperial and San Diego Counties to work on outreach strategy. The
group hopes to contact land use planners and city officials to encour-
age them to use this information in land use planning decisions,
particularly in the siting of schools and childcare centers.
Contact: Region 9, Kay Rudolph, 415-744-1065
References
1. Zahm, S.H., and S.S. Devesa. 1995. Childhood Cancer: Overview of Incidence
Trends and Environmental Carcinogens. Environmental Health Perspectives.
Volume 103 (Supplement 6), Pages 177-184.
2. Goldman, L.R. 1995. Children—Unique and Vulnerable: Environmental Risks
Facing Children and Recommendations for Response. Environmental Health
Perspectives. Volume 103 (Supplement 6), Pages 13-18.
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EPA Projects on Contaminants in Water and Fish
Contaminants in Water
Title: Children and Drinking Water Standards Brochure
Description: A question many people have on their minds is, "Should I be
concerned about the tap water my children are drinking?" This
brochure contains information on contaminants to which children
may be particularly sensitive, their sources, and what to do if their
water contains high levels of these contaminants. It also tells readers
where to get information on their local drinking water quality. The
brochure explains how national standards contribute to drinking
water safety, and helps readers make informed, reasonable choices
about the water they and their children drink.
Contact: Office of Water, Sherri Umansky, 202-260-0432
Title: Chronic Arsenic Exposure and Reproductive Effects from Drinking
Water
Description: This study is investigating the relationship of chronic exposure to
arsenic and reproductive outcomes. University of Kentucky
researchers will analyze existing data obtained from official and
hospital records and try to confirm preliminary findings that arsenic
exposure is associated with certain congenital anomalies. They also
will investigate general fetal, neonatal, and maternal mortality and
morbidity. A prospective study will investigate the association of
arsenic exposure and specific outcomes, including low birth weight,
prematurity, and pre-eclampsia. The researchers will assemble a
cohort of pregnant women recruited in their second or third trimester
of pregnancy and study them until the birth of their children. The
researchers also will measure maternal urinary arsenic levels as an
indicator of exposure from maternal ingestion of arsenic. They will
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measure newborn hair arsenic concentrations as an indicator of fetal
exposure through placental transfer.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Herman Gibb, 202-564-3334
Title: Evaluation of Arsenic Metabolic Profiles in Adults and Children
Description: EPA is studying populations exposed to arsenic in drinking water to
determine arsenic metabolic profiles in urine. Children and adults are
being studied to determine if there is any difference in metabolism
related to age or differences in ingestion habits.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Hillel Koren, 919-966-6203
Title: Disinfectant Byproducts and Birth Defects
Description: This collaborative project with the National Center for
Environmental Health at the Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention is examining the potential association of neural tube
defects and cardiac defects with exposure to disinfectant byproducts
in drinking water.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Hillel Koren, 919-966-6203
Title: Community Intervention Studies for Drinking Water
Description: This study looks at communities before and after changes or
improvements in drinking water supplies or treatment. The study
monitors families with children between the ages of 2 and 10 for the
incidence of microbial enteric disease.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Hillel Koren, 919-966-6203
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Title: Exposure of Children and Susceptible Populations to Chemicals in
Drinking Water
Description: Researchers on this project are analyzing data collected in the
National Human Exposure Assessment Survey (NHEXAS) to deter-
mine whether such data can be used to improve the accuracy of
drinking water risk assessments and to identify specific subpopula-
tions at risk. Chemicals of interest include selected metals,
pesticides, and volatile organics.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Michael Dellarco, 202-564-
3239
Title: Microbial Disinfectants and Disinfection Byproducts
Description: EPA has promulgated the first two of a group of rules that strength-
en control of microbial pathogens, including Cryptosporidium, while
simultaneously reducing risk from potentially cancer-causing
byproducts that form when disinfectants come into contact with
organic material in water. These rules are collectively known as the
Microbial-Disinfectants and Disinfection Byproducts (M-DBP)
Rules. The new rules, the Interim Enhanced Surface Water
Treatment Rule and Stage 1 Disinfectants and Disinfection
Byproducts Rule, were promulgated December 1998. Water systems
will be required to comply with the new standards by January 1,
2002. Future standards will continue to address the "risk-risk
balance" between protecting against microbial contaminants and the
byproducts of chemical disinfection. Children are among the sensi-
tive subpopulations considered, and therefore will be protected by
these regulations.
Contact: Office of Water, Jennifer McLain, 202-260-0431, or Dan
Schmelling, 202-260-1439
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Title:
Non-PRASA (Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority) Initiative
Description: There are 234 community public water systems in Puerto Rico that
are not in the PRASA system. Typically, these systems are owned
and operated by the community, serve poor rural communities of
fewer than 500, and are not incorporated; some provide no treatment
while others provide less than effective disinfection. Most systems
violate the coliform Maximum Contaminant Level and thus fail to
comply with U.S. drinking water standards. This initiative is
designed to increase public awareness of the need for safe drinking
water, provide basic disinfection, and improve overall drinking water
quality for the individuals served by these systems. EPAs strategy
includes public education, curriculum development, technical assis-
tance, financial assistance, and enforcement.
Contact: Region 2, Jose Font, 787-729-6826
Title: Safe Drinking Water Branch Compliance Workshops
Description: Contamination of drinking water by nitrate and bacteria can pose a
particular threat to infants. During the past year, Region 5 and
Ohio's EPA staff conducted a series of seven compliance workshops
directed at small drinking water treatment systems that were in
violation of nitrate and total coliform monitoring regulations.
Representatives of 58 systems attended the workshops and signed
bilateral compliance agreements to conduct the required monitoring
and notify the public of their previous failure to test drinking water.
Timely monitoring will ensure that if there is a health threat, it will
be identified and corrected.
Contact: Region 5, Holly Wirick, 312-353-6704
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Title: Reduction/Elimination of Persistent Toxic Substances in Great
Lakes
Description: EPA's Great Lakes National Program Office and Region 5 continue
to work with several partners to eliminate the releases of specified
persistent toxic substances to the Great Lakes Basin. The strategy
targets PCBs, DDT, mercury, dioxins, and certain canceled pesti-
cides for percentage reductions within a 10-year time frame on the
path to virtual elimination of these substances.
Partners: Environment Canada, Great Lakes states, industries, tribes, environ-
mental groups, non-government organizations.
Contact: Region 5, Rita Cestaric, 312-886-6815
Title: Water Awareness Program
Description: Region 6 is developing a risk-based children's health initiative to
target outreach efforts and technical assistance for communities with
degraded water quality and impaired recreational use. The Region
uses GIS data to obtain a geographic focus for water-related chil-
dren's health activities. The risks are analyzed using child
demographics, degree of vulnerability, and degree of impact. The
Region has developed a series of children's educational games,
interactive activities, and children's health displays as part of the
communication/outreach strategy for selected areas.
Contacts: Region 6, Paula Flores-Gregg, 214-665-8123, or Laura Talbot, 214-
665-6678
Title: Protecting Drinking Water Supplies
Description: Region 10 is working with Valley Family Health Care, Inc., in
Payette, Idaho, to address improper disposal and illegal dumping of
chemicals and sewage that impact farm workers, Hispanic migrant
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* . .
Contact:
and seasonal farm workers, family members, children, and young
adults. The program participants are educated about contaminated
drinking water, improper methods of storing or consuming drinking
water, and other activities that can further contaminate water
supplies. The expected results are that program participants will
understand how to protect themselves from exposure to pesticides
and other chemicals.
Region 10, Cecila Contreras, 206-553-2899
Contaminants in Fish
Title: Non-Commercial Fish Consumption Kit for Health Care Providers
Description: EPA, in partnership with the Agency for Toxic Substances and
Disease Registry, is developing materials to assist health care
providers assess and educate clients who consume non-commercial
fish.
Contact: Office of Water, Jeff Bigler, 202-260-13 05
Title: Fish Advisories
Description: EPA Region 2 has been actively involved in the public communica-
tion offish advisories in the states of New York and New Jersey for
the past 3 years. The communication takes the form of flyers (some
translated into other languages), public service announcements, and
consultations with local health care providers, most particularly
prenatal and neonatal clinics. The bodies of water most involved are
the Hudson River, the New York/New Jersey Harbor, the Passaic
River, the Niagara River, and the Great Lakes. The advisories
communicate information about contaminants in fish to particular
populations at risk: sustenance anglers, pregnant and nursing
women, and children.
Contact: Region 2, Ann Rychlenski, 212-637-3672
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References
1. ATSDR. Toxicological Profile for PCBs. U. S. Department of Health and
Human Services, Public Health Service, Agency for Toxic Substances and
Disease Registry.
2. ATSDR. Toxicological Profile for Arsenic. U.S. Department of Health and
Human Services, Public Health Service, Agency for Toxic Substances and
Disease Registry.
3. ATSDR. Toxicological Profile for Mercury. U.S. Department of Health and
Human Services, Public Health Service, Agency for Toxic Substances and
Disease Registry.
4. ATSDR. Toxicological Profile for Lead. U.S. Department of Health and
Human Services, Public Health Service, Agency for Toxic Substances and
Disease Registry.
5. ATSDR. Toxicological Profile for Chromium. U.S. Department of Health and
Human Services, Public Health Service, Agency for Toxic Substances and
Disease Registry.
6. EPA. 1997. Before You Go to the Beach. Publication Number EPA 820-K-97-
001. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
7. EPA. 1997. Should I Eat the Fish I Catch? Publication Number EPA 823-B-
97-009. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
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Predicting Health Risks
to Children
EPA uses risk assessment to identify and judge the severity of potential harmful
effects to humans or ecosystems from exposure to environmental hazards. Risk
assessment is a complex, analytical process involving expertise in chemistry,
biology, ecology, statistics, medicine, and other disciplines.
For drinking water, EPA is working to ensure that the developmental studies used to
determine national drinking water standards are designed to evaluate lifetime effects
from exposures by infants and children during their formative years. To better
protect children and adults from swimming-related illnesses, EPA is addressing
limitations of current methods to measure, monitor, and communicate recreational
water quality. In the area of hazardous waste, EPAs Superfund program analyzes
possible risks to children from exposure to hazardous waste sites. EPA uses several
exposure factors in the risk calculations that apply to children, including body
weight, inhalation rates, and ingestion rates to account for age-specific activities,
such as playing in soil.
A number of current EPA studies are under way to better characterize childhood
exposures, identify subpopulations that may be at risk, and improve exposure esti-
mates for infants and children to toxic substances, such as pesticides, lead, and toxic
molds. EPA is identifying critical periods in a child's development when exposure
can pose the greatest risks, and is determining the mechanisms that may increase or
decrease the likelihood of adverse outcomes in children compared to adults. Finally,
EPA is developing better risk assessment methods to account for combined expo-
sures to a variety of substances and multiple routes of exposure. For instance, an
individual may be exposed to lead from several sources, such as contaminated
drinking water, lead-based paint, and airborne lead in densely populated or industri-
al areas. The exposures from all sources could be combined into one measure for an
assessment of combined risk to children.
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EPA Projects to Improve Risk Assessment
Water
Title: Genetic Damage Associated with DBFs
Description: In this project, researchers will address the differences in the distri-
bution and metabolism of specific disinfectants/disinfection
byproducts (DBFs) among individuals and between adults and chil-
dren. Estimates of these differences will be analyzed using models
constructed for adults and children. The cytochrome P-450 enzymes
in the liver are the focus of this study, because they are responsible
for a number of metabolic reactions that increase the toxicity of low-
molecular-weight compounds.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, John Lipscomb, 513-569-
7217
Title: Rapid Scientific Methods for Measuring the Quality of Bathing
Beach Waters
Description: Researchers are developing new ways to measure the quality of
recreational water and to address some of the limitations of current
methods that measure the density of E. coll or Enterococci bacteria.
Their methods make use of genetically engineered microbes, nucleic
acid probes, and immunological methods. The methods can quantita-
tively measure water quality indicators and can produce rapid results
without complex instruments. If successful, these methods will
provide water quality data in a timely manner and help protect adults
and children from swimming-associated illnesses.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Kristen Brenner, 513-569-
7317
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Title: Bathing Beaches Monitoring Protocols and Communicating
Swimming Activity Risk to the Public
Description: Current EPA-recommended monitoring practices for bathing beach
water quality have some limitations in their ability to protect the
people who are most at risk from swimming-associated illness,
particularly children. Researchers are addressing these limitations by
developing a scientifically defensible monitoring protocol for
bathing beach water that accounts for spatial and temporal variabili-
ty, has national applicability, and can be translated into a simple
system that the public can use to make personal decisions about risks
associated with swimming and other recreational water activities.
The use of this protocol will ultimately result in greater protection of
adults and children from swimming-associated illnesses.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Kristen Brenner, 513-569-
7317
Hazardous Waste
Title: Development of Guidance on the Use of Probabilistic Analysis in
Risk Assessment at Superfund Sites
Description: The Superfund program's risk assessment process is used to evaluate
potential cancer risks and other hazards to children from exposure to
hazardous waste sites placed on the National Priorities List. EPA has
developed a document that provides technical guidance on the appli-
cation of probabilistic analytical methods to human health risk
assessment, including risks to children. Probabilistic analysis is a
useful tool to characterize and quantify variability and uncertainty in
risk assessment. Risk assessors select exposure factors that predict
the potential risks of children living near a Superfund site. Risk
information is used to evaluate the potential need for site cleanup.
Contact: Office of Solid Waste and Emergency Response, S. Steven Chang,
703-603-9017
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Title: Community Involvement in Superfund Risk Assessments
Description: EPA's Superfund program staff is improving the way in which risks
to children and adults are assessed by enhancing the role of commu-
nity involvement in risk assessment. EPA has developed a series of
new learning tools for both EPA staff and the public. A guidance
document provides suggestions to risk assessors for involving
communities in planning a risk assessment, identifying sites to
sample, and describing how people could be exposed to a Superfund
site. Information and fact sheets for the public describe risk assess-
ment in clear terms and illustrate how people's knowledge about a
site and their community can help EPA with risk assessment.
Educational videotapes, developed with the help of people across the
country who live near hazardous waste sites, help communicate how
EPA assesses risks and the ways in which people can help improve
site assessments in their communities.
Contact: Office of Solid Waste and Emergency Response, Jayne Michaud,
703-603-8847
Title: Superfund Basic Research Program
Description: EPA supports children's health research through the Superfund Basic
Research Program (SBRP) administered by the National Institutes of
Environmental Health Sciences through an interagency agreement.
In FY 1999, EPA committed $37 million to the SBRP. The basic
research funded by EPA helps to reduce uncertainties in risk esti-
mates and allows the agencies to better protect children and
susceptible communities. Children's health research helps us under-
stand the impact of chemical exposures on children during critical
periods of vulnerability. Examples of research supported by this
program include studies on the influence of in utero PCB exposures
on infant development and molecular epidemiology of childhood
leukemia.
Contact: Office of Solid Waste and Emergency Response, Jayne Michaud,
703-603-8847
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Title: Office of Solid Waste Risk Assessments
Description: EPA's Office of Solid Waste recognizes the importance of evaluating
children's health risks as part of risk assessments supporting
Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) hazardous waste
regulations. EPA routinely uses information on childhood exposure
to assess child health risks associated with exposure to hazardous
waste. Recently published EPA rulemakings in which risks to chil-
dren are explicitly considered include final standards for controlling
hazardous air pollutants emitted from hazardous waste incinerators,
proposed standards for the management and beneficial use of cement
kiln dust, and proposed hazardous waste listing determinations for
dye and pigment production wastes and wastes from the production
of chlorinated aliphatic chemicals. EPA also acknowledges the
uncertainties involved in assessing health risks to children as part of
its regulatory efforts, noting that methodologies for estimating envi-
ronmental threats to children's health are relatively new, are
currently being debated within the scientific community, and will
continue to evolve and improve.
Contact: Office of Solid Waste and Emergency Response, Charlotte Bertrand,
703-308-9053
Title: Determining Potential Exposure of Children near Superfund Sites
Description: EPA's Superfund program staff evaluates potential risks to children
from exposure to hazardous waste sites. These evaluations include
assessing risks through ingestion of soil and inhalation, as well as
risks to children trespassing onto abandoned hazardous waste sites.
Risk assessors make appropriate changes to body weight, inhalation
rates, and ingestion rates to account for age-specific activities when
assessing risks to children. To assess potential risks to children from
lead exposure, risk assessors use the Integrated Exposure and Uptake
Biokinetic model for children 6 years old and under. The model
predicts changes in blood lead levels in the population and this infor-
mation is used to evaluate the potential need for remediation.
Contact: Region 2, Audrey Galizia, 212-637-4352
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Title: Vega Baja Solid Waste Disposal
Description: The Vega Baja landfill site is an inactive, unlined landfill, located in
a rural area of Rio Abajo Ward, Puerto Rico. Open burning occurred
on the landfill between 1948 and 1979. Approximately 200
dwellings are located on 11 acres of the site. The Puerto Rico
Environmental Quality Board conducted sampling to explore possi-
ble lead hazards in soil, tap water, and homegrown fruits and
vegetables. Also, the Puerto Rico Department of Health tested blood
lead levels of young children living in the Vega Baja site. Results
revealed no indication of health concerns. Future planned activities
include collection of indoor dust samples from homes at the site.
Contact: Region 2, Audrey Galizia 212-637-4352
Title: Children's Exposure Priorities at/near Superfund Sites
Description: Region 5's Superfund Division has developed a priority list of those
chemicals and environmental hazards commonly encountered at or
near Superfund sites that pose the greatest risk to children's health.
This list will be used by policymakers to allocate resources and
implement appropriate actions for protecting children's health at or
near Superfund sites. It will also be used to develop strategies for
protecting children's health (e.g., developing outreach campaigns,
incorporating the chemical list in site investigation). This list will be
updated as new information becomes available.
Contacts: Region 5, Afif Marouf, 312-353-5550, or Ben Maradkel, 312-886-
2064
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Exposure
Title:
Description:
Contact:
Title:
Description:
Contact:
Human Exposure-to-Dose Models: Models and Modeling Methods
for Assessing Human Exposure and Dose to Toxic Chemicals and
Pollutants
This project aims to strengthen the general scientific foundation of
EPA's regulatory risk assessment, management, and policy processes
by developing state-of-the-art mathematical modeling and solution
methods to describe the relationship between exposure and dose.
Differences in physiology, metabolism, and anatomy may create
alterations in absorption and hence risk among adults, children, and
infants. One result of this research will be to produce a modeling
framework and an integrated group of models that can be easily
modified for a variety of exposure assessment and risk characteriza-
tion problems.
Office of Research and Development, Jerry Blancato, 702-798-2456
Dietary Exposure of Children
The purpose of this research is to develop a protocol and model for
assessing a young child's combined dietary intake of pesticides or
other environmental contaminants, including those "inherent" in
their foods as well as those that contaminate their foods during the
eating process (from hands, surfaces, etc.). Laboratory testing is
being conducted to characterize surface transfer coefficients and
related factors. Video analysis is helping the researchers analyze
contacts between foods and surfaces. Field testing will validate
protocols and measure dietary intakes of small children.
Office of Research and Development, Maurice Berry, 513-569-7284
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Title: Developing Risk Assessment and Risk Management Models for
Exposure of Children to Toxic Mold, Using Stachybotrys chartarum
as the Model Mold
Description: The health effects caused by exposures of children to indoor molds
are complex and controversial. This proposed research project will
attempt to further our ability to assess and manage the risks associat-
ed with such exposures using a combination of aerobiologic,
epidemiologic, and modeling approaches. Stachybotrys chartarum
will serve as a model subject of the investigation for several reasons:
it is common in water-damaged buildings, it produces a series of
well-characterized and particularly potent toxins, and exposure to it
has been implicated in infant deaths from a disease known as
pulmonary hemosiderosis (PH). The project will bring to bear new
and rapid methods for the quantitative analyses of the spores and
toxins of this organism, and will attempt to correlate the occurrence
of PH disease with levels of exposures to these agents in a defined
population of potentially at-risk infants in the Cleveland, Ohio,
metropolitan area.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Steve Vesper, 513-569-7367
Title: Multipathway Exposure Modeling of Children and Adults to
Pesticides and Toxics
Description: The goal of this research is to develop a mathematical model to esti-
mate exposure and absorbed dose to pesticides by children and
adults. Because young children are potentially at higher risk for
greater exposures to pesticides, this research emphasizes exposures
to children. Exposures to other toxics in the environment will subse-
quently be investigated using a multimedia/multipathway modeling
framework similar to that being developed for pesticide exposures.
Initially, a probabilistic exposure model for chlorpyrifos will be
modified. This model characterizes both uncertainty and variability
in input distributions and exposure factors. Additional microenviron-
ments and pathways that are important for children's exposure to
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pesticides, including the dermal exposure pathway and gastrointesti-
nal absorption, will be incorporated into the new model.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Haluk Ozkaynak, 919-541 -5172
Title: Workshop to Identify Critical Windows of Exposure for Children's
Health
Description: A workshop was held in September 1999 in Richmond, Virginia, to
develop a "time line" of critical periods of development, and identify
the health effects that could result from exposures during those
times. The time line describes key exposure periods within human
development for selected health outcomes. Exposures may occur
pre-conceptionally (to either parent), prenatally, and postnatally.
Endpoints of interest for this project include developmental
outcomes identified at birth, asthma, cancer, neurologi^ehavioral
effects, reproductive system effects, cardiovascular effects, diabetes,
and effects on general growth.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Sherry Selevan, 202-564-3312
Title: Childhood Exposure Factors Handbook
Description: This handbook is a compilation of statistical data on child-specific
exposure factors. The handbook includes data on sociodemographic
factors that affect exposure. A computer model will be developed to
access the applicable databases and calculate exposure using user-
defined exposure scenarios.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Jacqueline Moya, 202-564-
6245
Title: IEUBK Model Expansion
Description: The Integrated Exposure Uptake Biokinetic (IEUBK) Model for
Lead in Children (version 0.99d), released in March 1994, has been
widely accepted in the risk assessment community as a tool for
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implementing the site-specific risk assessment process for childhood
lead exposure. The model has four components, or modules: expo-
sure, absorption/uptake, biokinetics, and statistical output. There is a
need to expand the model to include adult exposure and to add
several features not currently available. In FY 1998, the exposure
module was expanded to a full age range (0 to 84 years) and revised
to incorporate several new model features and user options. The
uptake and biokinetic modules will be expanded in the same
manner. Each of the modules will undergo a limited circulation for
review and comment, to be completed during FY 2000. In FY 2000,
the all-ages lead model will be released for scientific review and
evaluation.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Robert Elias, 919-541-4167
Title: EPA's Contribution to Children's Assessment in NHANES IV
Description: EPA is helping to support data collection through the Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention in the National Health and Nutrition
Examination Survey (NHANES) directed towards children between
the ages of 6 and 19 years. For approximately 1,100 adolescents and
young adults ages 12 to 19, the serum levels of the following
persistent organochlorines will be tested: B-HCH, chlordane, DDT
metabolites, dieldrin, heptachlor/HE, hexachlorobenzene, lindane,
mirex, oxychlordane, PCBs, toxaphene, and trans-nonachlor. These
individuals will also be tested for thyroid function. For approximate-
ly 800 children ages 6 to 11 and 800 adolescents ages 12 to 19, the
following high-priority pesticides will be tested in the urine: chlor-
pyrifos; diazinon; permethrin; 2,4-D; ortho-phenyl phenol; and
methyl parathion. EPA also is supporting the blood and urine collec-
tion procedures and the administration of research related to
potential exposures to these chemicals. Sample collection is taking
place in 1999 to 2000, and results are expected in 2001.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Sue Perlin, 202-564-3284
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Title: Children's Risk: Summary Statistics of Selected Data Elements of
NHANES III
Description: As part of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
(NHANES), this project generated databases and descriptive data on
a variety of exposures and health characteristics as a first step in
identifying topics for further exploration. The project report includes
tables of data by gender, age, and race/ethnicity.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Sherry Selevan, 202-564-3312
Title: Evaluation of Methods to Scale Pharmacokinetic Parameters
between Adults and Children
Description: This project will analyze the pharmacokinetic differences between
adults and children based on existing studies and will characterize
the variability of pharmacokinetic parameters among children within
given age groups.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, William Pepelko, 202-564-3309
Title: Ethnic and Minority Highly Exposed Children's Populations
Description: This project examines and documents differences in exposure to
environmental contaminants in children of different racial, ethnic,
and socioeconomic groups.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Sherry Selevan, 202-564-3312
Title: Children's Environmental Health and Safety Inventory of Research
Description: The Children's Environmental Health and Safety Inventory of
Research (CHEHSIR) is an Internet-accessible database of federally
funded or sponsored research on environmental health risk and/or
safely risks that may uniquely or disproportionately affect children.
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The database was created as an interagency effort co-chaired by
EPA's National Center for Environmental Assessment (NCEA) and
the DHHS National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences
(NIEHS). The database is available at http://www.epa.gov/chehsir.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Bruce Rodan, 202-564-3329
Title: Protective Mechanisms Theme
Description: The developmental processes of gametogenesis and embryogenesis
are protected from the effects of toxicants by a variety of biological
mechanisms. This research focuses on identifying and characterizing
protective mechanisms dependent on heat shock proteins (HSPs)
and/or glutathione (GSH). The research will determine specific
biological mechanisms potentially relevant to a wide range of repro-
ductive and developmental exposures. Results from these
experiments will help define thresholds in dose-response studies,
validate biomarkers of response as useful components of predictive
dose-response models, and provide information for identifying
susceptible subpopulations.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Robert Kavlock, 919-541 -2771
Title: North Carolina Birth Cohort Study
Description: This long-term project, still under development, will establish a
cohort of children starting during gestation and follow them for the
next 20 years. Researchers will examine several exposure issues
(pesticides, persistent organochlorines, indoor and ambient air pollu-
tants, and drinking water contaminants) while measuring
age-appropriate health endpoints (developmental, immunological,
neurological, and respiratory). Counties selected for study will be
representative of both urban and rural environments and provide
racial diversity.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Hillel Koren, 919-966-6203
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Title: A Survey of Health and Environmental Conditions along the Texas-
Mexico Border
Description: This study will establish a baseline of environmental health condi-
tions along the Texas-Mexico border. The results will be used to
assess the need for environmental health education, environmental
monitoring, and promotion of targeted health services. The results
are also expected to lead to active surveillance for health conditions
related to environmental exposures, such as hepatitis A, pesticide
poisoning, lead poisoning, and asthma. The study will involve the
collection of existing demographic, environmental, and health data
from 2,100 randomly selected households in the principal population
areas along the border.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, David Otto, 919-966-6226
Title: Preparing Maps of Region 4 Depicting Environmental, Health, and
Demographic Characteristics
Description: This project is designed to determine how and if existing environ-
mental, demographic, and health data can be utilized to identify
potential relative risks from environmental factors to children's
health in Region 4. The areas of concern for the initial evaluation
include asthma, disorders caused by neurological/developmental
toxicants, childhood cancer, waterborne diseases (biological
pathogens), and acute responses to environmental contaminants (not
including accidental poisonings).
Contact: Region 4, Wayne Garfinkel, 404-562-8982
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Title: Environmental Pollutant Exposures in Children (EPEC) Project
Description: The EPEC workgroup is compiling exposure information for a list
of environmental pollutants that have potential health impacts for
children in Region 5. The purpose of this project is to assess expo-
sure of children to environmental pollutants, including benzene,
dioxins, formaldehyde, lead compounds, mercury compounds,
nitrates/nitrites, pesticides, polyaromatic hydrocarbons, polychlori-
nated biphenyls, toxaphene, trichloroethylene, and vinyl chloride.
This project will reduce data gaps in knowledge about childhood
exposures to environmental pollutants by addressing such questions
as: does exposure to environmental pollutants represent a health
concern for children? If so, what are the pollutants of concern and
what are the health concerns?
Contact: Region 5, Colleen Olsberg, 312-353-4686
Title: Site Assessment in Response to Cancer in Children: McFarland,
California
Description: McFarland is a small, largely Hispanic, agricultural community in
California's Central Valley. For the past 21 years, it has had an
increased rate of childhood cancers documented by the California
Department of Health Services. EPA is sampling and analyzing
drinking water, soil, and air for releases of hazardous substances
associated with past industrial and agricultural practices to determine
current environmental conditions and identify any issues that may be
of concern to children's health. Two rounds of sampling of drinking
water, including home faucets, and soil sampling have been
completed. EPA is continuing with plans for air monitoring in the
year 2000.
Contacts: Region 9, Mark Calhoon, 415-744-2376, or Elizabeth Adams, 415-
744-1704
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Title: West Oakland Urban Pilot Proj ect
Description: West Oakland is a predominately minority community with mixed-
use zoning. It includes many residences located near industrial
activities, and many children are living next door to high-hazard
facilities. EPA is engaged in several efforts to assess the environ-
mental conditions and help build the community's capacity to
respond to and advocate for environmental issues. EPA Region 9
arranged for an initial round of blood lead testing in the South
Prescott neighborhood of West Oakland.
Contact: Region 9, Carla Moore, 415-744-1938
Title: Defensible Space Proj ect
Description: The African American Development Association was given a grant
to fund the "Defensible Space Project." The project goal is to assess
and map all of the known polluters and storage facilities and their
locations with respect to sensitive receptors, such as schools or other
places where children gather. The project will provide an environ-
mental snapshot of West Oakland and will be useful for many
aspects of community planning and building. It will also support
efforts to determine whether there is a correlation between public
health and the location of industrial facilities.
Contact: Region 9, Carla Moore, 415-744-1938
Cumulative Risk
Title: Assessment of Chemical Mixtures
Description: Children are frequently exposed in the environment to multiple
chemical mixtures. However, little is known about the age-depend-
ent response to chemicals with similar modes of action. This project
examines the effects of chemical mixtures on various neurochemical
and functional measures in rodents of different ages. The overall
objectives of the project are (1) to assess the principle of additivity
as it relates to the effects of environmentally relevant chemicals in
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the brain, and (2) to determine if additivity varies as a function of
age. This research addresses the problem of cumulative toxicity, in
which children are exposed to many chemicals with similar modes
of action.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Hugh Tilson, 919-541-2671
Title: Update on Chicago Cumulative Risk Initiative (CCRI) Project
Description: This project, which examines complex exposures in urban industrial
areas around Southeast Chicago and Northwest Indiana, has entered
its second phase. Argonne National Laboratory is currently conduct-
ing a project to evaluate cumulative hazard impacts on children.
Contact: Region 5, Cheryl Newton, 312-353-6730
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HApTER 8
The EPA Children's Environmental Health Yearbook Supplement
Protecting Children
Worldwide
EPA's leadership in building international cooperation and technical capability is an
essential part of the U.S. role in promoting children's environmental health in inter-
national organizations and other nations. The 1997 Declaration of the Environment
Leaders of the Eight on Children's Environmental Health was adopted unanimously
at a summit hosted by EPA Administrator Carol Browner in May 1997. Seven
specific areas for international collaboration were identified:
• Improving environmental science and risk assessments by using more explicit
scientific knowledge of children's characteristics.
• Reducing blood lead levels in children to below 10 micrograms per deciliter and
reducing child, infant, and maternal exposure to lead.
• Improving access worldwide to microbiologically safe drinking water.
• Reducing air pollution.
• Reducing children's exposure to environmental tobacco smoke.
• Increasing and coordinating scientific research on endocrine (hormone) disrupt-
ing chemicals.
• Taking decisive international action to confront the problem of global warming.
EPA is coordinating U.S. efforts to put into action the steps called for in the
Declaration. The Agency is working with other countries of the Eight, as well as
other international organizations, to further the goals of the Declaration.
In August 1998, EPA helped to fund and participated in the First International
Conference on Children's Health and the Environment. This conference provided an
international forum for the latest research findings in pediatric environmental health,
identified opportunities to minimize childhood exposure to environmental contami-
nants worldwide, and initiated a review of future research in the field of children's
environmental health.
In June 1999, EPA led a U.S. delegation to the World Health Organization's
(WHO's) Third Ministerial Conference on Environment and Health. The
Conference included more than 900 participants, including 72 ministers of environ-
ment and health. The London Declaration, adopted by 50 countries from the WHO
European Region, affirmed the countries' commitment to specific measures that
will reduce the harmful effects of environmental degradation on human health. The
member states agreed to give greater emphasis in all relevant programs to the need
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to prevent exposure of children to environmental threats, recognizing the special
vulnerability of children and reproductive health to environmental threats. They
agreed to endorse the priorities highlighted at the Conference: preventive strategies
for asthma and allergies, childhood accidents and injuries, environmental tobacco
smoke, and areas of emerging concern about effects of the environment on chil-
dren's health.
EPA International Projects
Asthma and Other Respiratory Effects
Title: Paniculate Matter Epidemiology in Children
Description: This is a project to analyze and publish reports of an epidemiologic
study of children's and adult's respiratory health in relation to partic-
ulate matter (PM) exposure in the four Chinese cities of Chongqing,
Guangzhou, Lanzhou, and Wuhan. Reports from this study will
describe how exposure to size-specific ambient PM and indoor coal
smoke affect the prevalence of respiratory illness and symptoms in
children and their parents. The reports will also describe the effect of
these exposures on the long-term growth of spirometric lung func-
tion in the children.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Robert Chapman, 919-541-
4492
Title: China Urban Respiratory Health Study
Description: The four Chinese cities of Chongqing, Guangzhou, Lanzhou, and
Wuhan exhibit a very wide range of ambient particulate matter
levels. Under the China-U.S. Environmental Protection Protocol,
China and the United States are cooperating in a longitudinal study
of respiratory health status and changes in respiratory health in rela-
tion to air pollution exposure in these cities. The health outcomes
being measured are the frequency and severity of respiratory illness-
es and symptoms in children and adults, as determined by a
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standardized questionnaire, and the growth of ventilatory lung func-
tion in children, as determined by twice-yearly spirometric lung
function testing in elementary school children.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Robert Chapman, 919-541-
4492
Title: Children's Lung Function Study in China
Description: This U.S.-China cooperative study in four Chinese cities will deter-
mine long-term effects on children's lung function caused by several
air pollutants, including (1) ambient acid aerosols, particulates, and
sulfur oxides; and (2) indoor air pollution (coal smoke, environmen-
tal tobacco smoke). The study also examines the effects of changes
in ambient pollution levels on children's lung function. Pilot study
results have shown a clear association between particulate matter
exposure and long-term reduction in elementary school children's
lung function. The Children's Lung Function Study in China is
ongoing and expanded as of 1999. The expansion will assess
changes in respiratory health status in relation to changes in outdoor
and indoor air pollution exposure over a 7-year interval (1994 to
2001).
Partners: China National Environmental Protection Agency, Robert Wood
Johnson Medical School, New Jersey
Contact: Office of International Activities, Marianne Bailey, 202-564-6429
Title: U.S.-Canada Air Quality Agreement
Description: This agreement covers priority air pollutants and involves reducing
smog pollution of the Midwest-Eastern regional airshed. It involves
federal, provincial, and state governmental cooperation and signifi-
cant public and private stakeholder involvement. EPA and
Environment Canada also review, assess, and report on ground-level
ozone and its effects through joint biennial progress reports.
Partners: Environment Canada, others
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Contact:
Office of Air and Radiation, Laurel Schultz, 919-541-5511
Developmental and Neurological Toxicity
Title: The Effects of Lead in Children and Adolescent Development
Description: EPA scientists are working with the National Institute of
Occupational Health (NIOH) in Ahmedabad, India, to study the
health effects of lead, specifically on growth and puberty in children.
The project is evaluating the effects of lead in a high traffic area of
Ahmedabad, as well as the effects of a lead smelter in Calcutta. The
project looks at multipathway exposure, dose, and health effects in
children.
Contact: Office of Research and Development, Gary Kimmel, 202-564-3308
Title: Alaska Native Cord Blood Monitoring Program
Description: This program is designed to monitor the levels of selected heavy
metals and persistent organic pollutants in umbilical cord blood and
maternal blood of indigenous groups of the Arctic, with an initial
focus on Alaska Native American populations. The project will take
50 percent of the samples from the Inuit population and 50 percent
from the Yupic population. Expansion of the project to other popula-
tions is under consideration.
Partners: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, State of Alaska, Tribal
Agencies, others
Contact: Office of International Activities, Seth Low, 202-564-6414
Title: National Strategy for Lead Risk Reduction in Russia
Description: A Russian federal strategy was prepared with U.S. expert support to
address sources of lead risk identified in 1996 by Russian experts.
U.S. assistance will continue in identifying effective economic
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mechanisms to reduce lead exposure in key sectors and incorporate
lead risk reduction measures into regional economic planning, indus-
trial restructuring schemes, and privatization guidelines.
Partners: U.S. Agency for International Development, Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention
Contact: Office of International Activities, Sylvia Correa, 202-564-6443
Title: Children's Blood Lead Level Screening in Russia
Description: This is the first study of pediatric blood lead levels in Russia. After
findings of an initial survey of the City of Saratov were presented in
January 1997, the United States and Russia agreed to repeat the
study in other Russian cities to establish a baseline for measuring
results of lead reduction activities. In 1998, EPA, the Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention, and the Russia Ministry of Health
investigated three additional Russian cities, Ekaterinburg,
Krasnouralsk, Volgograd. Data will be used to characterize the over-
all lead exposure problem in Russia.
Partners: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Contact: Office of International Activities, Sylvia Correa, 202-564-6443
Title: Mobile Source Training/Lead Phase-Out Training
Description: Working with international organizations, EPA has developed a
training program designed to encourage the phase-out of leaded
gasoline and reduce motor vehicle pollution. The course has been
delivered in two Latin American countries, two Chinese cities, the
English-speaking Caribbean countries, and central and eastern
Europe. It has been partially credited with China's subsequent
commitment to phase lead out of gasoline by 2000. Additional deliv-
eries are planned for Asia and sub-Saharan Africa.
Partners: World Health Organization, Pan American Health Organization,
World Bank
Contact: Office of International Activities, Sylvia Correa, 202-564-6443
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Title: Epidemiologic Survey of Lead Exposure of Children in Tijuana,
Mexico
Description: An epidemiologic study of blood level concentration, lead use, and
socioeconomic and demographic factors will be conducted for chil-
dren, ages 2 to 6, in Tijuana. The study will evaluate associations
between blood lead concentration in children and potential sources
of lead exposure at the neighborhood and household levels. As part
of this project, a blood lead testing laboratory will be established in
Tijuana. Information derived from this study will be used to estab-
lish public health priorities and to plan public health programs for
lead surveillance and control in Tijuana.
Partners: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Contact: Region 9, Winona Victery, 415-744-1021
Health Effects of Pesticides
Title: Pesticides Management Project in Central America
Description: This program assists governments of Central American countries to
regulate, monitor, and ensure safe use of pesticides. The national
program focuses on building capacity to develop regulations for
pesticide handling, storage, and use. The community-level program
targets agricultural workers and public health and safety issues relat-
ed to pesticide use. It focuses on using protective equipment, safe
pesticide handling and application, container disposal, and avoiding
pesticide contamination of drinking water.
Partners: U.S. Agency for International Development
Contact: Office of International Activities, Pam Teel, 202-564-6424
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Potential Risks from Contaminated Water
Title: U.S.-Canada Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement (GLWQA)
Description: Under this agreement, EPA and Environment Canada review, assess,
and report biennially on ecosystem and health protection including
discharges of toxic substances and their effects in the Great Lakes
basin. A GLWQA Binational Strategy signed in April 1997 lists
targeted persistent toxics and sets ambitious discharge reduction
goals to better protect women of childbearing age, pregnant women,
and children. These provisions are particularly targeted to minority
cultures dependent upon family subsistence fishing and to other
people who depend on fish from the Great Lakes for food.
Partners: Environment Canada, others
Contact: Region 5, Rita Cestanic, 312-886-6815
Title: Microbiologically Safe Drinking Water Laboratory Capacity in Latin
America
Description: Illness associated with contaminated drinking water and inadequate
sewage management poses serious threats to public health through-
out the Americas, and disproportionately afflicts children. EPA will
provide technical assistance from its national laboratories to help
convert the Pan-American Health Organization's training laboratory
in Lima, Peru, to a microbiological drinking water reference labora-
tory serving all of Latin America. Technical expertise, technology
transfer, and training will be provided to assist with monitoring
programs and certifying compliance with World Health Organization
drinking water quality guidelines.
Partners: World Health Organization, Pan-American Health Organization
Contact: Office of International Activities, Stephanie Adrian, 202-564-6444
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Title: Municipal Water Management in Latin America
Description: This project seeks to improve human health and child survival in
Latin American and Caribbean countries through better access to
microbiologically safe drinking water. Activities include training
Peace Corps volunteers on ways to improve drinking water supplies,
protect watersheds, and improve community sanitation and waste-
water treatment practices.
Partners: U.S. Peace Corps
Contact: Office of International Activities, Stephanie Adrian, 202-564-6444
Title: The Central American Small Community Wastewater Treatment
Project
Description: This project focuses on the use of appropriate wastewater treatment
technologies to reduce microbiological contamination of water used
for household purposes and to ensure safer water for communities
downstream.
Partners: U.S. Agency for International Development
Contact: Office of International Activities, Stephanie Adrian, 202-564-6444
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Environmental Education
Related to Children's
Health
As part of its National Agenda to Protect Children's Health from Environmental
Threats, EPA is committed to expanding educational efforts with health and envi-
ronmental professionals to identify, prevent, and reduce environmental health
threats to children.
Some EPA-sponsored environmental education programs teach children about envi-
ronmental health issues of particular interest to them and their families. Other
programs provide skills and knowledge that parents, educators, and community
leaders can use to help protect children from environmental health risks. The princi-
ples of environmental justice—that all people must have the opportunity to live in a
healthy environment and that environmental laws apply without discrimination
based on race, ethnicity, culture, or economic status—guide EPAs efforts to
promote improved access to information and educational programs for poor and
disadvantaged communities.
EPA Environmental Education Projects
Health Care Providers
Title: Environmental Health Workshops
Description: The East Texas Area Health Education Center (AHEC), in coopera-
tion with the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston,
designed a workshop curriculum to promote an increased awareness
among health care providers of the unique problems associated with
the exposure of children to hazardous substances in the environment
and enhance skills important for the diagnosis and treatment of
exposed children. The curriculum will be used to present five hands-
on workshops to health care providers in Texas, including
U.S.-Mexico border cities.
Partners: Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Area Health
Education Centers, University of Texas Medical Branch at
Galveston, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Health
Resources and Services Administration
Contact: Region 6, Evelyn Daniels, 214-665-7543
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Title: Community-Based Training for Lay Health Promoters (Promotores)
and Primary Care Clinicians
Description: By means of an interagency agreement between EPA and the Health
Resources and Services Administration, a contract was awarded to
the Farm Worker Justice Fund to implement community-based train-
ing for lay health promoters (promotores) and primary care
clinicians along the U.S.-Mexico border. The training is aimed at
preventing exposure to environmental health hazards and promoting
early recognition and treatment of environmentally related illness,
especially with regard to children. The training will take place in
four locations along the border in Regions 6 and 9, and at least 200
persons are expected to be trained.
Partner: Health Resources and Services Administration
Contact: Region 6, Nelda Perez, 214-665-2209
Pediatric Centers
Title: Pediatric Environmental Health Speciality Unit
Description: EPA and the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
(ATSDR) have established a Pediatric Environmental Health
Speciality Unit (PEHSU) in Region 4 at Emory University. The
PEHSU will provide medical education, expert consultation, and
training to evaluate the potential adverse health impacts to young
children exposed to environmental contaminants. The Unit will
serve as a resource for pediatricians, other health care providers,
parents, teachers, the public, and EPA and ATSDR staff nationwide.
The Unit will also focus on pediatric environmental medicine as
well as clinical specialty referrals for children.
Contacts: Region 4, Wayne Garfmkel, 404-562-8982, or Delores Rodgers-
Smith, 404-562-8688
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Title: Center for Children's Environmental Health at Cook County
Hospital, Chicago, Illinois
Description: The Center for Children's Environmental Health, established in May
1999, provides professional training, clinical services, consultation,
diagnostic evaluation, technical assistance, and data collection in the
area of pediatric environmental health and illness in Region 5. The
Center is jointly funded by EPA and the Agency for Toxic
Substances and Disease Registry. Cook County Hospital is the
primary provider of pediatric health services for indigent children in
the Chicago area. This allows the Center to focus on the environ-
mental health needs of disadvantaged children at increased risk of
environmental exposures, while providing services regionwide. The
Center will also implement an EPA-supported Environmental
Exposure Questionnaire. The Center will be able to provide
geographically specific data on environmental health problems to
help EPA target intervention, prevention, and outreach activities
more effectively.
Contact: Region 5, Edward Master, 312-353-5830
Other Environmental Education Projects
Title: Environmental Justice in the "Hood" 1999
Description: For the fourth year, EPA has co-sponsored this popular and growing
symposium to gather activists and residents from the Massachusetts
communities of Chelsea, Chinatown, Dorchester, East Boston,
Jamaica Plain, Mattapan, Roxbury, South Boston, and the South End
to discuss current issues surrounding environmental justice. This
year's event was held on April 10, 1999, at Roxbury Community
College in Boston. Topics included lead in homes and yards, urban
air toxins, issues surrounding exhaust fumes from MBTA buses, and
environmental hazards indoors. All of these concerns directly affect
the health of urban children and their families.
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Partners: ACE, Bowdoin Street Health Center, Dudley Street Neighborhood
Initiative, Egleston Square Neighborhood Association,
Neighborhood of Affordable Housing, Neighborhoods Against
Urban Pollution, Roxbury Community College.
Contacts: Region 1, Kristy Rea, 617-918-1595, or Lois Adams, 617-918-1632
Title: An Afternoon with UEI: Community Gardens/Urban Agriculture
Description: EPAs Urban Environmental Initiative (UEI) hosts a number of semi-
nars that highlight the efforts of many of EPAs partners. An April
28, 1999, workshop in Boston focused on the positive health and
social effects that community gardens and urban agriculture have on
urban neighborhoods. Not only are the gardens a source of civic
pride and a chance to reclaim abandoned or vacant lots and turn
them into a "sea of green," but they provide a safe place for children
to spend time and enhance their awareness of the beauty of nature
and the importance of their environment. Community gardens can
also provide a safe source of food and nutrition for communities
with limited finances.
Contacts: Region 1, Kristy Rea, 617-918-1595, or Lois Adams, 617-918-1632
Title: Healthy Schools: Designing, Renovating, and Maintaining Our
School Buildings
Description: EPA participated in a statewide conference at Clark University in
Worcester, Massachusetts, on June 2, 1999, to explore the current
best practices for designing and maintaining healthy buildings for
the education of children in Massachusetts. Also explored were
ways to renovate existing schools in a manner that is safe and
reduces adverse health effects to children, teachers, and construction
workers. Participants learned how to reduce toxins and health
hazards in schools, and learned about the importance of community
and civil rights. Follow-up surveys and workshops are being sched-
uled to continue the Healthy Schools Network.
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Partners: Massachusetts Healthy Schools Network, Massachusetts Medical
Society, Massachusetts Public Health Association, Massachusetts
Teachers Association, U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil
Rights, Massachusetts Coalition for Occupational Safety and Health
Contacts: Region 1, Mary Beth Smuts, 617-918-1528
Title: Urban and Environmental Initiative
Description: Region 1's Urban Environmental Initiative (UEI) works aggressively
to identify and solve local environmental and environmental health
issues in Providence, Hartford, and Boston. UEI program managers
are incorporating children's environmental health issues into local
community planning efforts. The initiative includes programs to
address asthma and lead poisoning in these key New England urban
centers.
Contact: Region 1, Lois Adams, 617-918-1632
Title: Education about Asthma, Environmental Tobacco Smoke, and Lead
Description: Region 2 provided $15,000 to a community group called West
Harlem Environmental Action (WE ACT), located in Harlem, New
York. WE ACT will conduct education in childcare centers and other
relevant locations in Harlem, Washington Heights, and other low-
income parts of the city regarding asthma, environmental tobacco
smoke, and lead.
Contact: Region 2, Rachel Chaput, 212-637-4001
Title: Asthma and Lead Abatement Training and Education (ALATE),
Camden, New Jersey, and Northern Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Description: This project, funded at $287,635, is designed to build the capacity of
residents and community groups in Camden and Philadelphia to
confront and reduce the problems of lead poisoning and asthma.
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ALATE trains selected community residents (adults and high school
students) to educate care givers about the hazards of exposure to
lead and asthma-inducing allergens. The program also aims to
educate care givers about the importance of screening and followup
care for children at risk of lead poisoning and asthmatic episodes.
ALATE hopes to develop mechanisms to promote healthy home
environments for all community members and increase public
awareness of the hazards of lead poisoning and asthma for all
people, especially young children. ALATE also intends to work for
housing and health care policies that effectively protect children
from the hazards of lead poisoning and asthma.
Contact: Region 2, Maureen O'Neill, 212-637-5025
Title: Environmental Education Grants
Description: EPA is in its sixth round of awards of Environmental Education
grants, authorized under section 6 of the National Environmental
Education Act of 1990. In 1998, Region 2 awarded $196,000 in
grants.
Contact: Region 2, Terry Ippolito, 212-637-3671
Title: Environmental Justice Grants
Description: Since 1994, the Environmental Justice Small Grants Program has
awarded grants to nonprofit grassroots organizations. During FY
1998, $240,000 in grant funds were awarded to organizations that
targeted children's health issues, primarily the prevention of lead-
paint poisoning.
Contact: Region 2, Melva Hayden, 212-637-5027
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Title: Getting a Head Start on Environmental Education
Description: This EPA-funded project provides education in environmental health
for teachers and parents of preschool children who live in the vicini-
ty of the highly contaminated San Jose lagoon in the San Juan Bay
Estuary. Two eight-part workshops target teachers, health profession-
als, and parents. Participants develop educational materials (suitable
for a tropical environment) that teach children how pollution, envi-
ronmental health, and human behavior are connected. Activities
include identification of specific risk factors and behaviors in the
participants' immediate communities and development of a guide
that focuses on health issues relevant to nearby communities and
Head Start centers. Staff of Head Start programs develop activities to
help children form healthy habits.
Partners: Technological College of the Municipality of San Juan, Puerto Rico
Contact: Region 2, Terry Ippolito, 212-637-4445
Title: Newark Asthma and Lead Poisoning Education and Risk Reduction
Project
Description: This EPA-funded project reaches 1,000 parents and care givers of
young children, teaching them about risk reduction and better
management of chronic conditions related to asthma and lead
poisoning. Through the program, 12 participants in the Youth
Corps/School-to-Work program and 16 members of Volunteers In
Service to America (VISTA) are being trained to work with the
parents and care givers, encouraging them to adopt practices in the
home that can help reduce the risks of asthma and lead poisoning.
The International Youth Organization (IYO) uses its network of
childcare centers, elementary schools, block clubs, tenant associa-
tions, and community centers in Newark's Enterprise Community
target area to reach its intended audience and educate people about
important indoor air quality issues that affect children's health.
Partners: International Youth Organization, New Jersey
Contact: Region 2, Terry Ippolito, 212-637-4445
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Title: Children's Pesticides, Asbestos and Lead (PAL) Initiative
Description: The Children's PAL Initiative, begun in 1998 in Baldwin County,
Georgia, is a community-based outreach and education program
designed to minimize children's exposures to environmental health
hazards like lead-based paint, pesticides, secondhand smoke, radon,
polychorinated biphenyls, and asbestos. The program is designed to
use resources in the community and government to help empower
families and neighborhoods to take better care of their children's
environment. A multi-agency steering team made up of representa-
tives from federal, state, and local agencies that address children's
health issues provides direction and guidance to the citizen's adviso-
ry panel.
Emory University's Rollins School of Public Health has been work-
ing with Region 4 to implement this initiative and conduct an
assessment to provide community-specific information on children's
environmental health issues. The community-specific data will help
establish community-tailored interventions to address the environ-
mental health hazards to children. As a result of the relationships
established with the local government, health care, education, inter-
faith organizations, and communities, interventions have been well
received and supported by the community. These interventions used
new environmental health outreach and education material. Students
from the School of Health and Sciences at Georgia College and
State University are participating in the educational outreach activi-
ties. Emory University's Rollins School of Public Health has
presented information on the children's environmental health educa-
tion interventions developed from this project at national clinical and
public health conferences.
Contacts: Region 4, Wayne Garfmkel, 404-562-8982
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Title: Second Annual Region 5 Children's Environmental Health
Conference
Description: Region 5 organized its second annual Children's Environmental
Conference, held in July 1999. This year's event, called the
Workshop on Actions to Take for Children's Health (WATCH),
focused on helping communities learn about prevention, interven-
tion, education, and collaboration efforts to reduce environmental
health risks to children. The workshop was attended by more than
220 community organization representatives, health care providers,
educators, tribal members, and representatives from local, state, and
federal agencies. More than 50 speakers discussed a variety of
topics, including prevention of asthma, pesticide exposures, and lead
and mercury poisoning; safe drinking water; educating tribal health
care professionals; community coalition building; and training health
care providers about environmental health issues. Workshop atten-
dees identified actions needed to protect children's environmental
health at the local level.
Contact: Region 5, Holly Wirick, 312-353-6704
Title: Pollution Prevention Educational Demonstrations
Description: Pollution prevention educational demonstrations, involving activities
from the Pollution Prevention Education Toolbox, were conducted
for numerous educator, student, and general audiences at Chicago
public schools and other Chicago-area schools, national and regional
conferences, tribal events, and environmental festivals. The Pollution
Prevention Toolbox can be downloaded from the EPA Region 5
Pollution Prevention Home Page at
http://www.epa.gov/region5/waste/p2pages/toolbox.htm.
Contact: Region 5, Dolly Tong, 312-886-1019
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Title: Environmental WATCH Small Grants: Operation Clean Sweep
Description: Region 5 issued small, community-based grants promoting chil-
dren's environmental health and pollution prevention to
organizations that participated in the Environmental WATCH. As
part of "Operation Clean Sweep," the Campfire Boys and Girls of
Chicago has been funded to create a self-reliance class to teach
parents and children about environmental health risks.
Contact: Region 5, Holly Wirick, 312-353-6704
Title: Children's Video: "E-Hazards"—They're Out There . . .
Description: Children can join investigators Lana and Wolf on a mission to iden-
tify environmental hazards in a neighborhood just like their own.
Complete with whiz-bang gadgets, mischievous characters, and the
latest information for kids, this tale is told in "X-Files" fashion, full
of mystery, discovery, and humor. As kids enjoy this video, they will
become more aware of how to protect themselves from everyday
environmental hazards in and near their homes.
Contacts: Region 6, Paula Flores-Gregg, 214-665-8123, or Laura Talbot, 214-
665-6678
Title: Children's Health Booklet: "E-Hazards"—They 're Out There . . .
Description: This information booklet links with the video described above,
offering additional precautions and health information, as well as
useful Web sites, hotlines, and other information to parents and
educators.
Contacts: Region 6, Paula Flores-Gregg, 214-665-8123, or Laura Talbot, 214-
665-6678
Environmental Education Related to Children's Health
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Title: Educating Parents about Environmental Dangers to Children
Description: Chance, Inc., reaches an under-served segment of ethnically diverse,
low-income families participating in traditional financial service
needs programs. With EPA funding, as part of their home visit
program, Chance is educating their clients about environmental
health issues, including pest control, pesticide use, lead poisoning,
poisoning from gas heaters, radon, mercury, asbestos, secondhand
smoke, and poisonous plants.
Partners: Chance, Inc., Texas
Contact: Region 6, Jo Taylor, 214-665-2204
Title: Healthy Environments and Living Places (HELP) for Kids
Description: This community-based children's health project trains residents to
perform indoor environmental assessments of homes, home-based
childcare, and schools. Indoor environmental risks that children are
exposed to are identified, and recommendations are made for risk
reduction. All environmental media are included; however, the
project centers on issues that are within the control of the care giver.
Environmental risks to be evaluated include lead-based paint, radon,
environmental tobacco smoke, pesticides, carbon monoxide,
hazardous household chemicals, and asthma triggers.
Partners: American Lung Association of New Mexico, City of Albuquerque
Environmental Health Department, Albuquerque Community Health
Partnership, Sawmill Advisory Committee, University of Tulsa
Contact: Region 6, Mike Miller, 214-665-7550
Title: Childhood Asthma and Allergies Conference
Description: Region 6 hosted a 3-day Childhood Asthma Conference in May
2000 in Dallas, Texas, to address the prevention and treatment of
childhood asthma. The target audience for the conference includes
practicing health care professionals and organizations involved in the
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prevention of asthma triggers. The unique aspect of this conference
is that it brings together health care professionals and indoor envi-
ronmental engineering control professionals for a 2-day exchange of
ideas and information about the best available control and treatment
technology for the prevention, control, or management of asthma
episodes in children.
Partners: University of Texas Southwestern Medical Centers (Dallas and San
Antonio), Harris Methodist Health Plan, Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences
(NIEHS), U.S. Public Health Service, University of Tulsa,
University of Washington
Contact: Region 6, Evelyn Daniels, 214-665-7543
Title: Environmental Education in the Paris School District
Description: With EPA funding, the Edgar County Public Health Department and
Southeast Missouri State University work with teachers and students
in the Paris School District to provide training and resources for the
implementation of an environmental education program that features
the investigation of an ecosystem adjacent to the city's drinking
water source. The program establishes and implements an innova-
tive multidisciplinary science education and research program that
includes both classroom and field components for 1,000 students in
grades 6 through 12.
Partners: Edgar County Public Health Department, Missouri
Contact: Region 7, Lori Walker, 913-551 -7926
Environmental Education Related to Children's Health
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Title: Children's Health Forum
Description: Region 8 and the Colorado Department of Public Health and
Environment held a children's health forum in May of 1999. The
purpose of the forum was to help bridge the gap between environ-
mental and health officials on issues relating to asthma, pesticides,
and lead. Bringing these groups together built awareness of efforts
occurring throughout the State of Colorado and promoted better
collaboration and more efficient use of resources.
Contact: Region 8, Whitney Trulove-Cranor, 303-312-6099
Title: Children's Health Display
Description: Region 8 developed a Children's Health Display that has been used
for several events in Colorado, including the Globeville Community
Health Fair, Asthma Awareness Day, the Girl Scouts Tri-S'more
Health Fair, and the National Right-to-Know Conference.
Contact: Region 8, Whitney Trulove-Cranor, 303-312-6099
Title: Hazardous Materials Awareness and Preparedness Training
Description: The Oakland, California, Fire Service Agency was awarded a
$20,000 grant to develop and implement this program. The Fire
Department has prepared a workbook that includes maps of the
neighborhoods of West Oakland. It has also been training communi-
ty members to read hazardous material placards, set up emergency
command posts, and respond appropriately in case of a hazardous
material emergency. This training includes instruction on which
chemicals are most harmful to young children and people with respi-
ratory difficulties.
Contact: Region 9, Carla Moore, 415-744-1938
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Title: Environmental Health Resources for Schools
Description: To provide schools with "one-stop shopping" for EPA's environmen-
tal health resources and programs, Region 10 has recently
coordinated school outreach dealing with children's health issues. A
mailing has been sent to every school district in the region outlining
the programs and resources available to them from EPA to support
their work in children's environmental health protection and
providing additional information on their responsibilities to protect
children's health. Additionally, Region 10 has launched a new web
page on which this information is consolidated and is updating the
popular Environmental Hazards in Schools manual.
Contact: Region 10, Pam Emerson, 206-553-1287
Environmental Education Related to Children's Health
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Enhanced Community
Right-to-Know
EPA is enforcing the requirements of the Emergency Planning and Community
Right-to-Know Act and is vigorously expanding public access to Agency infor-
mation on pollution. With this information, parents can help prevent pollution in
their neighborhoods and protect the health of their communities' children.
The Toxics Release Inventory (TRI) is a national database that provides the
public with annual information on the environmental release of more than 600
toxic chemicals commonly used by industry (www.epa.gov/tri). More than
31,000 industrial facilities across the country are required to provide EPA with
reports on the types and amounts of chemicals they release to the air, land, and
water. Hazardous emissions have been reduced by 61 percent since 1987. EPA
will use the TRI program to ensure that parents, teachers, and health care
providers are aware of potential sources of contamination that may affect chil-
dren's health.
Other regulatory requirements provide for the public's right to know about toxic
substances to which people may be exposed. For example, the Safe Drinking
Water Act Amendments of 1996 contain extensive provisions for consumer
involvement. The provisions are founded on the principle that, before they turn
on their taps, consumers have a right to know what is in their drinking water
and where the water comes from. The Food Quality Protection Act (FQPA)
includes special right-to-know provisions that provide more public information
about risks from pesticides on foods. Such information can be the means for
consumers to make more informed decisions.
On the eve of Earth Day 1998, Vice President Gore announced the Chemical
Right-to-Know Initiative (ChemRTK), calling on EPA and industry to address
immediately the massive gap in information on industrial chemicals. He also
committed EPA to "...review and report on what new testing may be needed to
assess the special impact industrial chemicals may have on children." An EPA
study revealed that less than 7 percent of the 2,800 high-production-volume
(HPV) chemicals have a full set of baseline testing data publicly available, and
almost half of the HPV chemicals have no data publicly available. The
ChemRTK Initiative is being implemented by a combination of voluntary and
regulatory programs. A major component of the initiative, the HPV Challenge
Program, encourages industry to voluntarily sponsor chemicals to provide data.
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At the core of ChemRTK is a commitment to making data available to the
public in a form that is easy to access, use, and understand. More than 200
companies and 50 industry consortia have committed to sponsor more than
1,250 chemicals in the HPV Challenge Program.
EPA Community Right-to-know Activities
Title: Children's Health Chemical Testing Program
Description: The Children's Health Testing Program is a component of the
Chemical Right-to-Know (ChemRTK) Initiative. EPA has begun
a stakeholder dialogue to design and develop a voluntary
program to test commercial chemicals to which children have a
high likelihood of exposure.
Contact: Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances, Catherine
Roman, 202-260-8155
Title: Pre-Renovation Information Rule
Description: The Pre-Renovation Information Rule, published in June 1998,
requires renovators to provide a lead hazard information
pamphlet to owners and occupants of pre-1978 housing before
beginning work. In addition, the rule requires notification on the
nature of the renovation activities in certain circumstances
involving multi-family housing. This rule ensures that owners
and occupants of target housing are provided with information
about potential hazards of lead-based paint exposure before
certain renovations are begun. The rule went into effect on June
1, 1999.
Contact: Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances, Dayton
Eckerson, 202-260-1591
Enhanced Community Right-to-Know
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Title: Lower Threshold for Lead TRI Reporting
Description: In August 1999, EPA issued a proposed rule to lower the thresh-
old for reporting of lead releases to TRI. Currently, facilities are
not required to report their lead and lead compound releases to
the air, water, and land unless they manufacture or process more
than 25,000 pounds annually or use more than 10,000 pounds
annually. These high thresholds severely limit the reporting of
lead and lead compounds. Under the proposed rule, the reporting
thresholds would be lowered to 10 pounds per facility per year
and would substantially increase the amount of information made
available to the public through TRI by about 13 percent, or
15,000 reports.
Contact: Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances, Dan
Bushman, 202-260-3882
Title: TRI Education Product
Description: EPA developed teaching materials for junior and senior high
school students on TRI through a grant with the National Science
Teachers Association. The materials, developed by science and
social studies teachers, introduce and encourage the use of large
databases as an educational tool in the classroom. EPA sponsored
this effort to provide a greater understanding of the usefulness of
TRI data and to help make environmental information in general
more relevant for educational purposes. The materials include a
TRI CD-ROM and user's manual, The Toxics Release Inventory
Teachers Guide, Getting Started (a road map of ideas for how to
introduce environmental education in the classroom), and EPA's
Guide to Environmental Database Basics.
Contact: Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances,
Georgianne McDonald, 202-260-4182
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Title: Drinking Water Quality Reports
Description: In 1999, for the first time, EPA required water suppliers to
provide annual drinking water quality reports to their customers.
Water systems were required to deliver the first annual reports by
October; starting in 2000, they will send them by July. Each
report provides consumers with the following essential informa-
tion about their drinking water: the lake, river, aquifer, or other
source; the level (or range of levels) of the contaminants found in
local drinking water; EPA's health-based standard for compari-
son; the likely source of contaminants found in the drinking
water supply; the potential health effects of any contaminant
found in violation of an EPA health standard; and phone numbers
to call for more information. Reports may be obtained by calling
the local water supplier. Many reports are available on the
Internet through EPA's Local Drinking Water Information page at
http://www.epa.gov/safewater/dwinfo.html.
Contact: Office of Water, Rob Allison, 202-260-9836.
Title: The Children's Healthline
Description: Created by the Region 3 Children's Health Program, this elec-
tronic newsletter attempts to educate the public on various
environmental health issues. Insight from EPA experts and
medical practitioners is often included in the newsletters. The
dangers of UV exposure from the sun, lead from renovation
activities, and asthma from indoor air triggers were featured in
the most recent editions. A new Region 3 Children's Health
website was created to make the Healthlines available to a larger
audience; it can be found at www.epa.gov/reg03esdl/child-
health/index.htm
Contact: Region 3, Gail Tindal, 215-814-2069 or Dan Welker, 215-814-
2744
Enhanced Community Right-to-Know
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Children's Health
Resources
This chapter contains sources of additional information, lists of EPA publications
related to children's health topics, and references for hotlines and Internet resources.
Most of the resources listed below focus specifically on children or issues of
primary importance during the developmental years. Others address EPA efforts to
protect the environment where children live, learn, and play. The listing is not
intended to be exhaustive, but to allow readers to better understand how to protect
children's health.
Contacting EPA
For additional information on the EPA children's environmental health projects
inventoried in this document, you may call the individuals listed as contacts for
each project. For additional children's environmental health information at EPA,
address all correspondence using the following addresses and telephone numbers:
EPA Headquarters
Environmental Protection Agency
Office of Children's Health Protection
Ariel Rios Building, MC 1107
1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W.
Washington, DC 20460-0001
Phone: 202-260-7778
Toll Free Number: 877-590-KIDS
Internet: http://www.epa.gov
Children's Health home page: http://www.epa.gov/children
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EPA Regions and Regional Children's Environmental Health
Coordinators
Region 1
(Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut)
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
One Congress Street, Suite 1100
John F. Kennedy Building
Boston, MA 02114-2023
Phone:617-918-1111
Toll-free (within Region 1): 888-372-7341
Fax: 617-918-1029
Internet: http://www.epa.gov/regionl
Coordinator: Alice Kaufman
Mail Code: (RAA)
Phone: 617-918-1064
Fax: 617-918-1029
Email: kaufman.alice@epa.gov
Region 2
(New York, New Jersey, Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands)
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
290 Broadway
New York, NY 10007-1866
Communications Division: 212-637-3660
Internet: http://www.epa.gov/region2
Coordinator: Maureen O'Neill
Mail Code: Office of the Regional Administrator
Phone: 212-637-5025
Fax: 212-637-4943
Email: oneill.maureen@epa.gov
Children's Health Resources
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Region 3
(Pennsylvania, Delaware, District of Columbia, Maryland, Virginia, West
Virginia)
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
1650 Arch Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103-2029
Phone: 215-814-5000
Fax: 215-814-5103
Customer Service Center: 800-438-2474
Internet: http://www.epa.gov/region3
E-mail: r3public@epa.gov
Coordinator: Gail Tindal
Mail Code: (3WCOO)
Phone: 215-814-2069
Fax: 215-814-2782
Email: tindal.gail@epa.gov
Alternate Coordinator: Dan Welker
Mail Code: (3ES10)
Phone: 215-814-2744
Fax: 215-814-1782
Email: welker.dan@epa.gov
Region 4
(Kentucky, Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, Mississippi, Alabama,
Georgia, Florida)
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
61 Forsyth Street, S.W.
Atlanta, GA 30303-3104
Phone: 404-562-9900
Toll-free: 800-241-1754
Fax: 404-562-8174
Public Affairs and Information: 404-562-8327
Internet: http://www.epa.gov/region4
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Coordinator: Wayne Garfmkel
Mail Code: (4AT-TS)
Phone: 404-562-8982
Fax: 404-562-8972
Email: garfmkel.wayne@epa.gov
Region 5
(Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan, Indiana, Ohio)
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
77 West Jackson Boulevard
Chicago, IL 60604-3507
Phone:312-353-2000
Fax:312-353-4135
Toll Free Number: 800-621-8431
Internet: http://www.epa.gov/region5
Coordinator: Maryann E. Suero
Regional Team Manager
Mail Code: (T-13J)
Phone:312-886-9077
Fax:312-886-9697
Email: suero.maryann@epa.gov
Alternate Coordinator: Colleen Olsberg
Mail Code: (DRP-8J)
Phone:312-353-4686
Fax:312-353-4788
Email: olsberg.colleen@epa.gov
Region 6
(New Mexico, Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana)
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Fountain Place 12th Floor, Suite 1200
1445 Ross Avenue
Dallas, TX 75202-2733
Phone:214-665-2200
Children's Health Resources
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Toll-free (within Region 6): 800-887-6063
Fax:214-665-7113
General Information: 214-665-2200
Internet: http://www.epa.gov/region 6
Coordinator: Evelyn G. Daniels
Mail Code: (6PD-T)
Phone:214-665-7543
Fax:214-665-6762
Email: daniels.evelyn@epa.gov
Region 7
(Nebraska, Kansas, Iowa, Missouri)
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
901 North 5th Street
Kansas City, KS 66101-2798
Phone:913-551-7003
Fax:913-551-7467
Toll Free Number: 800-223-0425
Internet: http://www.epa.gov/region7
Coordinator: Lori Walker
Mail Code: (POISPLMG)
Phone:913-551-7926
Fax:913-551-9926
Email: walker.lori@epa.gov
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Region 8
(Montana, North Dakota, Wyoming, South Dakota, Utah, Colorado)
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
999 18th Street, Suite 500
Denver, CO 80202-2466
Phone:303-312-6312
Fax:303-312-6339
Environmental Information Service Center: 800-227-8917
Internet: http://www.epa.gov/region8
E-mail: r8eisc@epa.gov
Coordinator: Alicia Aalto
Mail Code: (8P-AR)
Phone:303-312-6967
Fax:303-312-6064
Email: aalto.alicia@epa.gov
Region 9
(California, Nevada, Arizona, Hawaii, Guam, American Samoa)
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
75 Hawthorne Street
San Francisco, CA 94105-3901
Phone: 415-744-1305
Fax: 415-744-2499
General Public Inquiries: 415-744-1500
Internet: http://www.epa.gov/region9
E-mail: r9.info@epa.gov
Coordinator: Jean Circiello
Mail Code: (SPE-1)
Phone:415-744-1631
Fax: 415-744-2360
Email: circiello.jean@epa.gov
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Region 10
(Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Alaska)
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
1200 Sixth Avenue
Seattle, WA 98101-3188
Phone: 206-553-1200
Fax: 206-553-0149
Toll Free Number: 800-424-4372
Internet: http://www.epa.gov/regionl0
Coordinator: Pam Emerson
Mail Code: EXA-142
Phone: 206-553-1287
Fax: 206-553-1049
Email: emerson.pamela@epa.gov
EPA also operates a number of hotlines and clearinghouses. Those that offer publi-
cations and information relevant to topics covered in this report are listed in the
appropriate sections below. For information on other EPA offices, locations, public
information centers, hotlines, and clearinghouses, check the EPA home page or call
the regional office nearest you.
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Obtaining EPA Publications
EPA is making important progress to provide the public with information to protect
children's health. The following tables list Web addresses for obtaining EPA infor-
mation and direct links to other resources available on the Internet. It is also
possible to call or write EPA to request copies of documents. General sources of
EPA documents include:
• The National Service Center for Environmental Publications (NSCEP) is a
central repository for EPA documents, with over 5,500 titles in paper and elec-
tronic format available for distribution (at no cost to the public). Individuals can
browse and search EPA's National Publications Catalog, and order EPA
Publications online or by telephone at 800-490-9198. The EPA publication
number (e.g., EPA 999-F-99-999) is used to identify the resource being
requested.
NSCEP
National Service Center for Environmental Publications
P.O. Box 42419
Cincinnati, OH 45242-2419
Phone: 800-490-9198
Local and Government Employees: 513-489-8190
Fax: 513-489-8695
Internet: http://www. epa.gov/ncepihom
E-mail: ncepimal@one.net
Some documents not available free of charge through NSCEP can be obtained for a
charge through the National Technical Information Service (NTIS) or the
Government Printing Office (GPO).
• NTIS is a central resource for government-sponsored U.S. and international
scientific, technical, engineering, and business-related information. As a self-
supporting agency of the U.S. Department of Commerce, NTIS covers its
business and operating expenses with the sale of its products and services. For
EPA publications, NTIS indexes publications by their EPA publication number,
complete title, and by an NTIS product number. NTIS accepts VISA,
MasterCard, American Express, and Discover.
Children's Health Resources
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NTIS
National Technical Information Center
5285 Port Royal Road
Springfield, VA 22161-0002
Phone to Order: 800-553-6847 or 703-605-6000
Fax: 703-605-6900
E-Mail Online Ordering: orders@ntis.fedworld.gov
Internet: http://www.ntis.gov
• Documents available from the U.S. Government Printing Office (GPO) can be
obtained for a fee by calling or writing to the address below. GPO also accepts
VISA and MasterCard. Place orders by title or appropriate order number.
U.S. Government Printing Office
Superintendent of Documents
PO Box 371954
Pittsburgh, PA 15250-7954
Phone: 202-512-1800
Fax: 202-512-2250
Internet: https://orders.access.gpo.gov/su_docs/sale/prf/prf.html
Additional publications and interlibrary loans of EPA documents are available
through the EPA library system. The EPA Headquarters Information Resources
Center provides access to EPA information for U.S. and international requests, and
has a range of information services consisting of environmental and related
subjects, including online searching of commercial databases. The focus of the EPA
collection is on environmental regulations, policy, planning, and administration. The
library also maintains a large collection of EPA documents on microfiche and in
hard copy. Libraries also are located in EPA regional offices and laboratories across
the country. For information contact:
Headquarters Information Resources Center
Environmental Protection Agency
Ariel Rios Building
1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W.
Mail Code 3404
Washington, DC 20460-0001
Phone: 202-260-5922
Fax: 202-260-5153
E-mail: library-hq@epa.gov
Internet: http://www.epa.gov/natlibra
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EPA Materials, Tools, and Internet Resources Related to
Children's Health
This section contains information resources specific to the health effects and envi-
ronmental contaminants addressed in the Children's Environmental Health
Yearbook Supplement. Under each topic, general resources—such as hotlines and
clearinghouses—are listed first, followed by an alphabetical listing of relevant EPA
publications. For each document, one or more sources for obtaining the information
is indicated in the right-hand column. Sources may be one of the major document
distribution centers or EPA offices listed above, an Internet site address, or one of
the topic-specific clearinghouses or hotlines. A specific individual contact and tele-
phone number are provided where needed.
Inventory of Children's Health Research Projects
The Children's Environmental Health and Safety Inventory of Research
(CHEHSIR) is an Internet-accessible database of federally funded or sponsored
research on environmental health risk and/or safety risks that may uniquely or
disproportionately affect children.
http://www.epa.gov/chehsir
Asthma and Other Respiratory Effects
Information Resources for Indoor Air Quality
Indoor Air Quality Information Clearinghouse (IAQINFO)
P.O. Box 37133
Washington, DC 20013-7133
Phone: 800-438-4318; local 703-356-4020
Fax: 703-356-5386
E-mail: iaqinfo@aol.com
Internet: http://www.epa.gov/iaq/pubs
Children's Health Resources
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Indoor Air Quality Publications and Sources
Publication
Source
A is for Asthma (video)
Asthma and the Environment: A Strategy to
Protect Children
Carpet and Indoor Air Quality Fact Sheet
(EPA 402-F-94-011 October 1992, IAQ-0040)
Children and Secondhand Smoke
(EPA 402-F-99-003)
Clearing the Air: Asthma and Indoor Air Exposures
Clear Your Home of Asthma Triggers: Your
Children Will Breathe Easier (EPA 402-F-99-005)
Creating Indoor Air Quality Programs in
Low-Income Communities and Communities of
People of Color: An Organizer's Handbook
Flood Cleanup: Avoiding Indoor Air Quality
Problems Fact Sheet (EPA 402-F-93-005,
August 1993, IAQ-0061)
How Healthy Is the Air in Your Home?
A Room-by-Room Checklist for Your Home's
Indoor Air Quality (EPA 402-F-97-001)
IAQ Tools for Schools Action Kit EPA
(402-K-95-008)
Region 5, Suzanne Saric,
312-353-3209
NSCEP
http://www.epa.gov/children
IAQINFO
NSCEP
http: //www. nap. edu/b ooks/
030906496 I/html
NSCEP
Region 10, Brooke Madrone,
206-553-2589
IAQINFO
IAQINFO
All except the problem
solving wheel and video
available at:
http://www.epa.gov/iaq/schools
GPO sells the complete kit
and extra wheels.
(GPO# 055-000-00563-0)
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Indoor Air Quality Publications and Sources (continued)
Publication
IAQ Tools for Schools Taking Action and
Ventilation Basics (video) EPA 402-V-98-001
Indoor Air Pollution: An Introduction for
Health Professionals (EPA 402-R-94-007;
GPO 1994-523-217/81322)
Indoor Air Quality Basics for Schools Fact Sheet
(EPA 402-F-96-004, October 1996, IAQ-0095)
The Inside Story: A Guide to Indoor Air Quality
(EPA 402-K-93-007, April 1995, IAQ-0009)
Protect Your Family and Yourself from Carbon
Monoxide Poisoning (EPA 402-F-96-005,
October 1996) in Spanish (EPA 402-F-97-004,
July 1997)
Residential Air Cleaners Fact Sheet
(EPA 20A-4001, February 1990, IAQ-0007)
Sick Building Syndrome Fact Sheet
(EPA 402-F-94-004, April 1991, IAQ-0004)
A Special Alert for People with Asthma in the
Northeast Ohio Area (EPA 905-K-001, May 1997)
Source
IAQINFO
IAQINFO
IAQINFO
IAQINFO
IAQINFO
This fact sheet also is
available in Vietnamese
(EPA 402-F-96-005C),
Chinese (402-F-96-005A),
and Korean (402-F-96-005B)
IAQINFO
IAQINFO
Region 5, Indoor Air
Coordinator, 312-353-2205
Children's Health Resources
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Indoor Air Quality Publications and Sources (continued)
Publication
Source
A Special Alert for People with Asthma in the
Greater Cincinnati, Northern Kentucky
Metropolitan Area (EPA 905-K-002, May 1997)
A Special Alert for People with Asthma in the
Greater St. Louis Metropolitan Area
(EPA 905-K-003, May 1997)
A Special Alert for People with Asthma in the
Chicago Metropolitan Area and Northwest Indiana
(EPA 905-K-004, May 1997)
A Special Alert for People with Asthma in
Southeast Wisconsin (EPA 905-K-005, May 1997)
Use and Care of Home Humidifiers Fact Sheet
(EPA 402-F-91-101, February 1991, IAQ-0008)
Ventilation and Air Quality in Offices Fact Sheet
(EPA 402-F-94-003, July 1990, IAQ-0003)
What You Should Know about Combustion
Appliances and Indoor Air Pollution
(EPA400-F-91-100)
Region 5, Indoor Air
Coordinator, 312-353-2205
Region 5, Indoor Air
Coordinator, 312-353-2205
Region 5, Indoor Air
Coordinator, 312-353-2205
Region 5, Indoor Air
Coordinator, 312-353-2205
IAQINFO
IAQINFO
IAQINFO
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Information Resources for Outdoor Air Pollution
Office of Air and Radiation
Office of Mobile Sources
2565 Plymouth Road
Ann Arbor, MI 48105-2498
Phone: 734-214-4207
Internet: http://www.epa.gov/OMSWWW/consumer.htm
National Vehicle and Fuel Emissions Laboratory (NVFEL)
2000 Traverwood Drive
Ann Arbor, MI 48105-2195
Phone: 734-214-4200
Fax: 734-214-4525
Internet: http://www.epa.gov/OMSWWW/01-nvfel.htm
Outdoor Air Quality Publications and Sources
Publication
Air Toxics from Motor
Vehicles (EPA 400-F-92-004,
Fact Sheet OMS-2,
August 1994)
Automobile Emissions: An
Overview (EPA 400-F-92-007,
Fact Sheet OMS-5,
August 1994)
Automobiles and Carbon
Monoxide (EPA 400-F-92-005,
Fact Sheet OMS-3,
January 1993)
Source
NVFEL or
http ://www. epa.gov/OMSWWW/consumer.htm
NVFEL or
http ://www. epa.gov/OMSWWW/consumer.htm
NVFEL or
http ://www. epa.gov/OMSWWW/consumer.htm
Children's Health Resources
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Outdoor Air Quality Publications and Sources (continued)
Publication
Be a Grower Not a Mower Fact
Sheet (EPA 420-F-96-018)
Boating Pollution Prevention
Tips Fact Sheet
(EPA 420-F-96-003)
Car Owners: Protect the
Environment and Your Health
Don't Tamper With Emissions
Controls! (EPA 420-F-93-004)
Commute Alternative Brochure
(EPA420-F-95-011)
Commute Alternative Poster
(EPA 420-H-95-002)
Control of Emissions from
Nonroad Engines Fact Sheet
(EPA 420-F-96-009)
Health and Environmental
Effects of Particulate Matter,
July 1997
Nonroad Engines and Air
Pollution: An Overview
(EPA 420-F-94-003)
Source
NVFEL or
http://www.epa.gov/OMSWWW/consumer.htm
NVFEL or
http://www.epa.gov/OMSWWW/consumer.htm
NVFEL or
http://www.epa.gov/OMSWWW/consumer.htm
NVFEL or
http://www.epa.gov/OMSWWW/consumer.htm
NVFEL or
http://www.epa.gov/OMSWWW/consumer.htm
NVFEL or
http://www.epa.gov/OMSWWW/consumer.htm
NVFEL or
http://www.epa.gov/OMSWWW/consumer.htm
http://ttnwww.rtpnc.epa.gov/naaqsfin/pmhealth.htm
NVFEL or
http://www.epa.gov/OMSWWW/consumer.htm
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Outdoor Air Quality Publications and Sources (continued)
Publication
Tips For Reducing Fuel
Spillage Fact Sheet
(EPA 420-F-96-002)
Tips to Save Gas and Improve
Mileage (EPA 420-F-94-004)
What You Can Do to Reduce
Air Pollution: A Citizens Guide
to What Individuals and
Communities Can Do to Help
Meet the Goals of the Clean
Air Act Amendments of 1990
(EPA 450-K-92-002)
Your Car or Truck and the
Environment: An
Environmental Guide for
Owners and Drivers of Cars,
Trucks, and Other Motor
Vehicles (EPA 420-K-93-001)
Your Car and Clean Air: What
YOU Can Do to Reduce
Pollution (EPA 400-F-93-002,
Fact Sheet QMS-18,
August 1994)
Your Yard and Clean Air
(EPA 420-F-94-002,
September 1996)
Source
NVFEL or
http ://www. epa. gov/OMS WWW/consumer, htm
NVFEL or
http ://www. epa. gov/OMS WWW/consumer, htm
NSCEP: http://www.epa.gov/ncepihom
NSCEP: http://www.epa.gov/ncepihom
NVFEL or
http ://www. epa. gov/OMS WWW/consumer, htm
NVFEL or
http ://www. epa. gov/OMS WWW/consumer, htm
Children's Health Resources
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Information Resources for Ground-Level Ozone
Office of Air and Radiation
Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards, Mail Code MD-10
Research Triangle Park, NC 27711
Phone: 919-541-5616
Ground Level Ozone home page: http://www.epa.gov/oar/oaqps/gooduphigh/
AIRLinks: http://www.epa.gov/airlinks
Region 1
New England's Air Quality Hotline: 800-821-1237
Anne Arnold, Air Quality Planning Unit, Office of Ecosystem Protection,
617-918-1047
Ground Level Ozone Information Web Page:
http: //www. epa.gov/regi on 1 /eco/ozone/
1
1
1
Ground Level Ozone Publications and Sources
Publication
Automobiles and Ozone
(EPA 400-F-92-006,
Fact Sheet OMS-4,
January 1993)
Ground-Level Ozone Air
Quality Guide
Health and Environmental
Effects of Ground-Level
Ozone Fact Sheet, July 1997
Source
http://www.epa.gov/OMSWWW/consumer.htm
Region 1, Anne Arnold, Air Quality Planning
Unit, Office of Ecosystem Protection,
617-918-1047
http://www.epa.gov/ttn/oarpg/naaqsfin/o3health.htm
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Ground Level Ozone Publications and Sources (continued)
Publication
Ozone Action Day
Information
Ozone Action Days: A
Special Alert for People
with Asthma and Other
Respiratory Problems
(EPA905-F-95-001,
May 1995)
Source
Region 5,
http://www.epa.gov/region5/air/naaqs/o3info.htm
Region 5,
http://www.epa.gov/ARD-R5/naaqs/o3asthma.htm
Childhood Cancer
Information Resources for Radon
Indoor Air Quality Information Clearinghouse (IAQ Information)
Radon Information Clearinghouse
Phone: 800-SOS-RADON
IAQ Radon Publications Web Site: http://www.epa.gov/iaq/radon/pubs/index.html
Radon Publications and Sources
Publication
A Radon Guide for Tenants
All About Radon (coloring book;
English and Spanish)
Source
IAQ Radon Pubs Web Site Radon
Information Clearinghouse
Region 7,
http://www.epa.gov/region7/kids/aar.htm
Children's Health Resources
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Radon Publications and Sources (continued)
Publication
Baby Radon Public Service
Announcement, 1995
Basic Information on Radon Resistant
New Construction (pamphlet)
Citizen's Guide to Radon: The Guide
to Protecting Yourself and Your
Family from Radon, Second Edition
(EPA402-K-92-001, September 1994)
(in Spanish: EPA 402-K-93-005,
September 1993)
Consumer Federation of America
Radon Public Service
Announcement (video)
Consumer's Guide to Radon
Reduction: How to Reduce Radon
Levels in Your Home
(EPA 402-K92-003, August 1992,
GPO Order Number
ISBN: 0-16-036255-5)
Dust Particles-Radon Public
Service Announcement, 1996
(in English and Spanish)
Home Buyer's and Seller's Guide to
Radon (EPA 402-R-93-003,
March 1993)
Lung Radon Poster
Source
IAQINFO
http://www.epa.gov/iaq/construc.html
IAQ Radon Pubs Web Site
Radon Clearinghouse Information
NSCEP
IAQINFO
IAQ Radon Pubs Web Site
Radon Information Clearinghouse
GPO
IAQINFO
IAQ Radon Pubs Web Site
Radon Information Clearinghouse
GPO
IAQINFO
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Radon Publications and Sources (continued)
Publication
My Radon Coloring Book
Radon Measurement In Schools:
Revised Edition Booklet
(EPA 402-R-92-014, July 1993)
Radon Measurement in Schools,
Self-Paced Training Workbook
(EPA402-B-94-001)
Radon in Schools Brochure,
Second Edition
(EPA 402-F-94-009, October 1994)
Radon Resistant New Construction
in Homes (brochure)
Radon: Risks and Realities
(August 13, 1996)
Radon Video
(also available in Spanish)
Reducing Radon Risks
(EPA 520-1-89-027, September 1992)
Reducing Radon in Schools:
A Team Approach
(EPA 402-R-94-008, April 1994)
The Radon Student Activity Book
Source
Region 7
http://www.epa.gov/region7/kids/mrcb 1 .htm
IAQ Radon Pubs Web Site
Radon Information Clearinghouse
NSCEP
IAQ Radon Pubs Web Site
Radon Information Clearinghouse
IAQ Radon Pubs Web Site
Radon Information Clearinghouse
IAQINFO
IAQINFO
IAQ Radon Pubs Web Site
Radon Information Clearinghouse
IAQ Radon Pubs Web Site
Radon Information Clearinghouse
IAQINFO
Children's Health Resources
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Information Resources for Asbestos
Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) Hotline
Phone: 202-554-1404
Fax: 202-554-5603
E-mail: tsca-hotline@epa.gov
!
1
i
j
J
Asbestos Publications and Sources
Publication
Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act Q & A
(EPA 745-K-93-023)
Asbestos in the Home: A Homeowner's Guide
(EPA 910-K-92-001, August 1992)
Asbestos in Your Home (brochure, EPA 745-F-93-006)
Asbestos Fact Book (EPA 745-K-93-016)
Asbestos in Schools: Evaluation of Asbestos Hazard
Emergency Response Act (fact sheet, EPA 745-F-91-100)
Asbestos in Schools: Evaluation of Asbestos
Hazard Emergency Response Act
(summary report, EPA 745-K-91-101)
Advisory to the Public on Asbestos in
Buildings (EPA 745-K-93-014)
The ABCs of Asbestos in School
(information packet, EPA 745-K-93-017)
Proposed Rule on Friable Asbestos Containing Materials
in School Buildings: Health Effects and Magnitude of
Exposure (support document, EPA 560-12-80-003)
Source
TSCA Hotline
TSCA Hotline
TSCA Hotline
TSCA Hotline
TSCA Hotline
TSCA Hotline
TSCA Hotline
TSCA Hotline
TSCA Hotline
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Information Resources for Ultraviolet Light (Sun Protection)
Stratospheric Ozone Hotline: 800-296-1996
Ozone Depletion Resource Center
Internet: http://www.epa.gov/docs/ozone/resource/public.html
Ultraviolet Light (Sun Protection) Publications and Sources
Publication
Sun Safety for Kids: The SunWise
School Program (brochure,
EPA 430-F-00-003)
SunWise School Program Guide
(booklet, EPA 430-K-99-036)
The Sun, UV, and You: A Guide to
SunWise Behavior
(booklet, EPA 430-K-99-035)
SunWise Monitor
(newsletter, EPA 430-F-99-033
and EPA 430-F-00-008)
Action Steps for Sun Protection
(fact sheet, EPA 430-F-99-026)
Health Effects of Overexposure to the Sun
(fact sheet, EPA 430-F-99-025)
Ozone Depletion
(fact sheet, EPA 430-F-99-023)
UV Radiation
(fact sheet, EPA 430-F-99-024)
Source
Stratospheric Ozone Hotline
http : //www. epa.gov/sunwi se
Stratospheric Ozone Hotline
http : //www. epa.gov/sunwi se
Stratospheric Ozone Hotline
http : //www. epa.gov/sunwi se
Stratospheric Ozone Hotline
http://www.epa.gov/sunshine
Stratospheric Ozone Hotline
http : //www. epa.gov/sunwi se
Stratospheric Ozone Hotline
http : //www. epa.gov/sunwi se
Stratospheric Ozone Hotline
http : //www. epa.gov/sunwi se
Stratospheric Ozone Hotline
http://www.epa.gov/sunshine
1
1
1
1
1
1
't
1
!
1
Children's Health Resources
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Ultraviolet Light (Sun Protection) Publications and Sources (continued)
Publication
What is the Ultraviolet (UV) Index
(fact sheet, EPA 430-H-99-001)
The Ultraviolet Index: What You
Need to Know
(pamphlet, EPA 430-F-94-016)
Stratospheric Update
(newsletter, EPA 430-F-99-009)
Moving Out of CFCs, Benefits of the
CFC Phaseout
(fact sheet, EPA 430-F-96-020)
Sun Wise School Program
Ozone Depletion Art Project
Protecting the Ozone Layer: Safe Disposal
of Home Appliances Containing Ozone
Depleting Substances
(EPA430-K-93-001)
Protection of the Ozone Layer
(EPA 230-N-95-002)
Ozone Layer Educator's Guide
(guidance packet, EPA 430-E-95-003)
NSCEP
Source
Stratospheric Ozone Hotline
http://www.epa.gov/sunwise
Stratospheric Ozone Hotline
Stratospheric Ozone Hotline
Stratospheric Ozone Hotline
Office of Air and Radiation
Maura Cantor, 202-564-9096
http://www.epa.gov/sunwise
Office of Air and Radiation
Christine Dibble, 202-564-9147
http ://www/epa.gov/ozone/art
NSCEP
NSCEP
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Developmental and Neurological Toxicity
Information Resources for Lead
National Lead Information Center Hotline and Clearinghouse
Phone: 800-LEADFYI (hotline)
Phone: 800-424-LEAD (clearinghouse)
Fax: 202-659-1192
E-mail: ehc@cais.com
Internet: http://www.epa.gov/lead/nlicdocs.htm
The Hotline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, in English and Spanish.
The Hotline distributes a basic information packet on lead that includes the EPA
brochure "Lead Poisoning and Your Children," three fact sheets, and a list of state
and local contacts for additional information. Callers who have more specific
questions are referred to the clearinghouse (800-424-LEAD) and can speak directly
with an information specialist. Information specialists provide on-phone technical
assistance.
Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Ariel Rios Building
1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W.
Mail Code 7407
Washington, DC 20460-0001
Phone: 202-260-2902
Lead Programs home page: http://www.epa.gov/lead
Children's Health Resources
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Lead Publications and Sources
Publication
Be Safe With Lead-Man (poster)
Children and Lead: What You Can
Do? A Guide for Parents and Day
Day Care Providers From Physi-
cians for Social Responsibility
Controlling Lead In Soils
Packet (1995)
Eliminating Childhood Lead
Poisoning: A Federal Strategy
Targeting Lead Paint Hazards
EMPACT Lead Safe Yard Project
Fact Sheet: Disclosure of Lead-
Based Paint Hazards in Housing
(EPA 747-F-96-002, March 1996)
Finding a Qualified Lead
Professional for Your Home
(EPA 747-F-96-006)
First Steps: Childcare
Provider/Parent Lead Awareness
Manuals
Healthy Beginnings: Lead Safe
Families, an English-as-a-
Second-Language Curriculum
on Lead Poisoning Prevention
(EPA208-B-93-001, 1996)
Source
Region 4, Lead Coordinator,
Rose Anne Rudd, 404-562-8998
Regions, 215-814-5000
Region 1, Katie Mazer, 617-918-1523
NSCEP
http://www.epa.gov/children
http://www.epa.gov/region01/leadsafe
National Lead Information Center
http ://www. epa.gov/opptintr/lead/leadbase.htm
National Lead Information Center
http://www.epa.gov/lead/nlicdocs.htm
Region 1, James M. Bryson, 617-918-1524;
Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians,
Phillip Quint, 800-545-8524 or 207-532-4273
Region 1, Katie Mazer, 617-918-1523,
http: //www. epa.gov/regi onO 1 /eco/1 ead/
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Lead Publications and Sources (continued)
Publication
Home Repairs and Innovations:
What You Should Know
About Lead-Based Paints
Identifying Lead Hazards in
Your Home
(fact sheet, EPA 747-F-96-007)
IMPACT Lead Safe Renovator
Training Manual (also available
on interactive CD-ROM)
Lead in American Schools:
What School Districts
Should & Should Not Do
Lead in Your Drinking Water
(EPA 810-F-93-001)
Lead in Your Home: A Parent's
Reference Guide
Lead Prevention Videos: Lead
Poisoning—A Parent's Guide to
Prevention, Sesame Street Lead
Away!, and Living With Lead
Lead Poisoning and Your
Children
(pamphlet, EPA 800-B-92-002);
El Envenenamiento por el Plomo
y Sus Nifios (EPA 747-K-95-001)
Source
Region 7, 800-223-0425
NSCEP
Region 1, James M. Bryson, 617-918-1524
Regions, 215-814-5000
NSCEP Water Resource Center
National Lead Information Center,
http://www.epa.gov/lead/nlicdocs.htm,
Megan Carroll, 202-260-7269
National Lead Information Center
Region 4, Lead Coordinator,
Rose Anne Rudd, 404-562-8998
Children's Health Resources
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Lead Publications and Sources (continued)
Publication
Lead Poisoning Prevention
Wheel
Lead in Drinking Water Coolers
(fact sheet EPA 810-F-90-021)
Lead-Free Kids, Lead-Free
Homes (pamphlet)
Lead—Is Your Child At Risk?
(pamphlet)
Let's Get the Lead Out 1997
Teaching Materials
Making Your Kids & Your
Home Safe from Lead
Poisoning (pamphlet)
Our Mid-Atlantic Environment—
25 Years of Progress
(EPA903-R-017,
December 1995)
Protect Your Family from Lead
in Your Home
(pamphlet, EPA 747-DK-94-00,
May 1 1995);PotejaaSu
Familia del Plomo en Su Casa
(EPA747-K-94-001S)
Source
Region 7, 800-223-0425
NSCEP, Water Resource Center
Regions, 215-814-5000
Regions, 215-814-5000
Regions, 215-814-5000
Regions, 800-621-8431
Regions, 215-814-5000
Regions, 215-814-5000
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Lead Publications and Sources (continued)
Publication
Protecting Your Family from
Lead Poisoning: Como Proteger
a Sus Hijos y Su Hogar contra
el Envenenamiento por Plomo
(pamphlet)
Questions & Answers on the
EPA/HUD Disclosure Rule
(EPA 747-F-96-001,
March 1996)
Questions Parents Ask About
Lead Poisoning
Reducing Lead Hazards When
Remodeling Your Home
(EPA 747-R-94-002, April 1994);
Como Reducir Los Peligros del
Plomo al Remodelar Su Casa
(EPA 747-R-94-002S)
Testing Your Home for Lead
The Trouble with Lead (Video)
Source
National Lead Information Center,
http://www.epa.gov/lead/nlicdocs.htm
Regions, 215-814-5000
National Lead Information Center,
http://www.epa.gov/lead/nlicdocs.htm
Region 7, 800-223-0425
National Lead Information Center,
http://www.epa.gov/lead/nlicdocs.htm
Region 7, 800-223-0425
Children's Health Resources
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Information Resources for Endocrine Disrupters and Other
Neurotoxics
Office of Research and Development
National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, Mail Code MD-51
Research Triangle Park, NC 27711
Phone: 919-541-2281
Fax: 919-541-4324
Endocrine Disrupters Research Initiative home page: http://www.epa.gov/endocrine
Endocrine Disrupters and Other Neurotoxics Publications and Sources
Publication
Endocrine Disrupter Research
Initiative :Relevant Research
Publications
Public Health Implications of
PCB Exposures (ATSDR/EPA Report,
December 1996)
Special Report on Environmental
Endocrine Disruption: An Effects
Assessment and Analysis
(EPA 630-R-96-012)
Workshop Report on Developmental
Neurotoxic Effects Associated with
Exposure to PCB's
(EPA 630-R-92-004)
Report to Congress on Mercury
(Office of Air and Radiation,
December 1997)
Safe and Correct Handling of PCB s Is
Your Responsibility (EPA 910-F-99-009)
Source
http://www.epa.gov/endocrine/pubs.html
Region 5
http ://www. epa.gov/endocrine/pub s.html
http://www.epa.gov/endocrine/pubs.html
http: //www. epa. gov/oar/m ercury. html
Region 10
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Health Effects of Pesticides
Information Resources for Pesticides
Office of Pesticide Programs (OPP)
Field and External Affairs Division
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Ariel Rios Building
1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W.
Mail Code: 7506C
Washington, DC 20460-0001
Phone: 703-305-7012
Fax: 703-305-6244
National Pesticide Telecommunications Network (NPTN) Hotline
Toll Free Number: 800-858-7378
Internet: http://ace. orst. edu/info/nptn/
E-Mail: nptn@ace.orst.edu
A national toll-free telephone information service that provides callers (parents,
consumers, medical community, and federal, state and local governments) with
poisoning prevention and technical information on more than 600 pesticide active
ingredients and approximately 25,000 product registrations in the United States.
Children's Health Resources
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Pesticides Publications and Sources
Publication
Child-Resistant Packages for Pesticides
Citizen's Guide to Pest Control and
Pesticide Safety
(EPA 730-K-95-001, September 1995)
Diagnostico y Tratamiento de Los
Envenenamientos por Plaguicidas,
Cuarta Edicion
(Spanish, EPA 540-R-95-024)
Do You Really Need a Pesticide?
(EPA910-F-94-004)
Emergency Action Guide for Pesticide
Incidents (1992)
For Your Information: Protecting the
Public from Pesticide Residues in Food
(fact sheet, EPA 735-F-96-001)
Growing Food Crops on City Lots
(fact sheet, June 1994)
Integrated Pest Management
(poster, EPA 735-H-92-001)
Methyl Parathion in the Chicago
Area (1997)
Office of Pesticide Programs Annual
Report for 1996 (EPA 735-R-96-001)
Source
Region 4, 404-562-9900
NSCEP
NSCEP
Region 10, 800-424-4372
Region 5, Pesticides Program Section,
312-886-6003
NSCEP
Region 5, Pesticides Program Section,
312-886-6003
NSCEP
Region 5, Pesticides Program Section,
312-886-6003
NSCEP
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Pesticides Publications and Sources (continued)
Publication
Pest Control in the School
Environment: Adopting Integrated
Pest Management
(brochure, EPA 735-F-93-012)
Pesticide Poisoning Action Guide
for Agricultural Pesticides in the
Midwest: Resource Directory for
Medical Personnel
(EPA 905-B-94-001, May 1994)
Pesticides and Child Safety
(EPA 735-F-93-050R)
Protect Yourself from Pesticides:
A Guide for Pesticide Handlers
(EPA 735-B-93-003)
Protect Yourself from Pesticides:
A Guide for Agricultural Workers/
Protejase de Los Pesticidas: Guia para
Los Trabaj adores Agricolas
(EPA 735-B-93-002)
Protect Yourself from Pesticides
(poster, EPA 735-H-93-001)
Protejase de Los Pesticidas: Guia
Para Los Que Manejan Pesticidas
(EPA735-B-94-001)
Source
NSCEP
Region 5, Pesticides
Program Section,
312-886-6003
NSCEP
NSCEP
NSCEP
NSCEP
NSCEP
Children's Health Resources
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Pesticides Publications and Sources (continued)
Publication
Recognition and Management of Pesticide
Poisonings (Fourth Edition, EPA 540-R-98-001,
Fifth Edition, EPA 735-R-98-003. In Spanish,
EPA 735-R-98-004)
Status of Pesticides in Re-Registration
and Special Review
(Rainbow Report, EPA 738-R-94-008)
Steps to Protect Yourself from
Pesticides
(English/Laotian: EPA 735-F-95-006)
(English/Cambodian: EPA 735-F-95-005)
(English/Vietnamese: EPA 735-F-95-004)
(English/Haitian Creole: EPA 735-F-95-003)
(English/Spanish: EPA 735-F-95-002)
10 Tips to Protect Children from
Pesticide and Lead Poisonings around
the Home
(English/Spanish, EPA 735-F-97-001)
The Federal Insecticide, Fungicide,
and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) and
Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic
Act (FFDCA) as amended by the
Food Quality Protection Act (FQPA)
of August 3, 1996 (EPA 730-L-97-001)
To Spray or Not To Spray (pamphlet,
EPA 905-F-95-003)
Source
NSCEP
NSCEP
NSCEP
NSCEP
NSCEP
Region 5, Pesticides
Program Section,
312-886-6003
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Pesticides Publications and Sources (continued)
Publication
What You Need to Know About
Methyl Parathion and Your Health
(fact sheet, 1997)
Wood Preservatives for Applicators
(booklet, 1987)
Source
Region 5, Pesticides
Program Section,
312-886-6003
Region 5, Pesticides
Program Section,
312-886-6003
Potential Risks from Contaminated Water
Information Resources for Contaminants in Drinking Water,
Surface Water, and Fish
Safe Drinking Water Hotline
Phone: 800-426-4791
E-Mail: hotline-sdwa@epa.gov
The Safe Drinking Water Hotline is available to help the public, drinking water
stakeholders, and state and local officials understand the regulations and programs
developed in response to the Safe Drinking Water Act (as amended in 1986 and
1996). This includes information about drinking water regulations and publications,
source water protection programs, and public education materials. The Hotline can
be reached Monday through Friday (except federal holidays) from 9 a.m. to 5:30
p.m. (Eastern Standard Time).
Children's Health Resources
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EPA's Office of Water Resource Center
Water Resource Center (RC-4100)
Ariel Rios Building
1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W.
Washington, DC 20460-0001
Phone: 202-260-7786
Fax: 202-260-0386
E-mail: center.water-resource@epa.gov
Internet: http://www.epa.gov/ogwdw/rescnter.html
EPA's Office of Water Resource Center is a one-stop location for information and
materials produced by the Office of Ground Water and Drinking Water, the Office
of Science and Technology, and the Office of Wastewater Management, within
EPA's Office of Water. Materials available include: fact sheets, guidance manuals,
technical reports, models, educational kits, training materials, brochures, videotapes,
and posters. The Office of Water Resource Center is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30
p.m. EST
Office of Water Web Site
Internet: http://www.epa.gov/ow
EPA's Office of Water Web site contains current information about a variety of
responsibilities throughout the office. The Office of Ground Water and Drinking
Water site contains information about the public water system program and standard
setting for contaminants. The Office of Science and Technology site contains infor-
mation about beaches and fish, as well as contaminant health advisories. The
Office of Wetlands, Oceans and Watersheds site includes information about water-
shed protection. The Office of Wastewater Management site includes materials on
control and prevention of water pollution from industrial discharge and sludge.
Drinking Water Information in Spanish
http://www.epa.gov/safewater/agua.html
This Web site provides basic information about drinking water and some key drink-
ing water materials in Spanish.
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Local Drinking Water Information
http://www.epa.gov/safewater/dwinfo.htm
For information about drinking water in your state, click on a state within a U.S.
map and you will go to a page which lists major links for that state, including local
water systems and their water quality reports, data on whether local water systems
have met national drinking water standards, watershed maps, state programs listing
how the state intends to prioritize drinking water funding, state programs for drink-
ing water source assessment and protection.
Great Lakes National Program Office
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Region 5
77 West Jackson Boulevard
Chicago, IL 60604-3507
Phone:312-886-4046
Fax:312-353-2018
Contaminated Drinking Water, Surface Water, and Fish
Publications and Sources
Publication
Before You Go to the Beach
(EPA 820-K-97-001, September 1997)
Children and Drinking Water
Standards (EPA 815-K-99-001)
Source
Water Resource Center
Safe Drinking Water
Hotline or Water Resource Center
www.epa.gov/safewater/dwhealth.html
Children's Health Resources
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Contaminated Drinking Water, Surface Water, and Fish
Publications and Sources (continued)
Publication
Drinking Water and Health
(EPA 811-F-95-002-C, October 1995)
Drinking Water and Health:
What You Need to Know
(EPA816-K-99-001)
Drinking Water Counts on You:.
Blue Thumb Kit (EPA 810-B-97-001)
Drinking Water Health Fact Sheet
on Atrazine
Drinking Water Health Advisories
(fact sheet listing)
Drinking Water Public Service
Announcements: "Now it Comes With
a List of Ingredients"; Drinking Water:
Pour Over the Facts" (Posters, line
screens, and CDs for radio spots, all in
English and Spanish)
Great Lakes Water Quality Initiative
Case Studies Show Benefits Outweigh
Costs (fact sheet, EPA 820-F-95-002)
Great Lakes Water Quality Initiative:
A Summary
(fact sheet, EPA 820-S-95-001)
Source
Water Resource Center
Safe Drinking Water
Hotline or Water Resource Center
www. epa.gov/safewater/dwhealth. html
NSCEP
Water Resource Center
Water Resource Center
Safe Water Hotline or
Water Resource Center
http://www.epa.gov/safewater/psa.html
Great Lakes National Program Office,
Regions, 312-886-4046
Great Lakes National Program Office,
Regions, 312-886-4046
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Contaminated Drinking Water, Surface Water, and Fish
Publications and Sources (continued)
Publication
Indicator I: Population Served by
Community Drinking Water Systems
Violating Health-Based Requirements
(Safe Drinking Water Information
System)
Kids Can Help Save Our Streams!
(EPA 840-F-96-900)
Lead in Drinking Water: An
Annotated List of Publications
(EPA 812-K-93-001, October 1993)
Lead in Your Drinking Water:
Actions You Can Take to Reduce
Lead in Your Drinking Water
(EPA 810-F-93-001)
National Listing of Fish
Consumption Advisories
(fact sheet, EPA 823-F-96-006)
National Listing of Fish
Consumption Advisories Software
(7 disk set, EPA 823-C-96-011)
National Study of Chemical
Residues in Fish
(fact sheet, EPA 823-F-92-001, 1992)
Source
Water Resource Center
NSCEP
Water Resource Center
Safe Drinking Water Hotline or
Water Resource Center
www.epa.gov/OGWDW/pubs/leadl .html
Water Resource Center
NSCEP
NSCEP
Children's Health Resources
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Contaminated Drinking Water, Surface Water, and Fish
Publications and Sources (continued)
Publication
National Primary Drinking Water
Standards (EPA 810-F-94-001A,
February 1994)
National Listing of Fish Consumption
Advisories, Update Fact Sheet
(EPA 823-F-95-004)
Preamble to National Primary
Drinking Water Regulations for
Lead and Copper
Protecting the Great Lakes: The
Cost and Benefits of Reducing Toxic
Pollution in Three Communities
Office (EPA 820-F-95-004)
Public Drinking Water
Information (brochure,
EPA816-F-99-010)
Public Water Systems Inventory and
Compliance Statistics, FY 1991-1995
(EPA 816-R-97-006)
Safe Drinking Water Act
Amendments of 1996: General Guide
to Provisions (EPA 810-S-96-001)
Safe Drinking Water is in
Our Hands (Poster,
EPA815-F-99-003;
Booklet, EPA 815-F-99-004)
Source
NSCEP
NSCEP
Federal Register, Volume 56,
Page 26460
Great Lakes National Program Office,
Regions, 312-886-4046
Safe Drinking Water
Hotline or Water
Resource Center
NSCEP
NSCEP
Safe Drinking Water Hotline
or Water Resource Center
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Contaminated Drinking Water, Surface Water, and Fish
Publications and Sources (continued)
Publication
Should I Eat the Fish I Catch?
(EPA 823-B-97-009, September 1997)
Student Activity Sheets For
Drinking Water Projects
(EPA 810-F-92-003)
Summary of U.S. Great Lakes
Beach Closings, 1981-1994
(EPA 905-R-97-003)
The Great Lakes: An Environmental
Atlas and Resource Book
(EPA 905-B-95-001)
The Effects of Great Lakes
Contaminants on Human Health:
Report to Congress
(EPA 905-R-95-017, September 1995)
U.S. EPA 1997 Supplementary
Fish Consumption Advisory for
Michigan's Great Lakes Waters
Fact Sheet
Water on Tap: A Consumer's Guide
to the Nation's Drinking Water
(EPA 810-K-97-002, July 1997)
Watersheds: Where We Live (poster)
We All Live Downstream (booklet)
Source
Water Resource Center
Water Resource Center
NTIS
Region 5,
http ://www. epa.gov/region5/fi sh
Great Lakes National Program Office,
Regions, 312-886-4046
Region 5,
http ://www. epa.gov/region5/fi sh
Water Resource Center
NSCEP
Regions, 215-814-5000
Children's Health Resources
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International Activities
Reducing Health Risks Worldwide: EPA's International Lead Risk Reduction
Program. EPA 160-K-98-001. Available from NSCEP.
http://www.epa.gov/oia/itc/htm
Environmental Education
Information Resources for Environmental Education
Office of Environmental Education
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Ariel Rios Building, MC-1701
1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W.
Washington, DC 20460-0001
Phone: 202-260-4865
Fax: 202-260-4095
Internet: http://www.epa.gov/enviroed
EPA's Office of Environmental Education mission is to advance and support nation-
al education efforts to develop an environmentally conscious and responsible
public, and to inspire a sense of personal responsibility for the care of the environ-
ment in all individuals. For more information regarding Environmental Education
Grants, please call 202-260-8619 or fax 202-260-4095.
National Education Association
Health Information Network (NBA, HIN)
1201 16th Street, N.W.
Washington, DC 20036-3290
Phone: 202-822-7570
Fax: 202-822-7775
Internet: http://www.neahin.org/
E-mail: neahin@aol.com
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National Parent Teacher's Association
National PTA Headquarters
330 N. Wabash Avenue, Suite 2100
Chicago, IL 60611-3 673
Phone: 800-307-4782
Fax:312-670-6783
Internet: http://www.pta.org/programs/envlibr.htm
E-mail: info@pta.org
Environmental Education Publications and Sources
Publication
1997 PTA Green Almanac
A Guide to Environmental
Education Resources
(January 1996)
The ABC's of
Environmental Education
(EPA 905-K-94-001)
Acid Rain: A Student's
First Source Book
(children's workbook,
EPA 600-990-027A)
Breakfast With UEI: Film
Descriptions and Ordering
Information
(a list of educational videos)
Children's Environmental
Health Yearbook
(EPA 100-R-98-100)
Source
OAR-Sponsored National PTA Resources
Region 1, Kristen Conroy, 617-918-1069
NSCEP
http://www.epa.gov/acidrain/student/student2.html,
Acid Rain Hotline, 202-564-9620
Region 1, Kristy Rea, 617-918-1595
NSCEP
OCHP, 202-260-7778
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Children's Health Resources
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Environmental Education Publications and Sources (continued)
Publication
Environmental Hazards in
Your School: A Resource
Handbook
Children's Health Booklet
and Video: "E-Hazards"—
They're Out There . . .
Drinking Water Activities
for Students, Teachers, and
Parents (EPA 810-B-99-002)
Environmental Justice
Grants Bulletin
Environmental Justice and
the Indoor Environment
(November 1997)
Guidelines for Prevention,
Recognition, and Resolution
of Environmentally-
Related Illness in Schools
HAZ-ED: Classroom
Activities for Understanding
Hazardous Waste
(EPA 540-K-95-005,
April 1996)
The Importance of Parent
Involvement in Addressing
Children's Environmental
Health Issues
Source
Regions, 215-814-5000
Region 6, Paula Flores-Gregg, 214-665-8123,
or Laura Talbot, 214-665-6678
Safe Drinking Water Hotline,
800-426-4791, or Water Resource Center,
202-260-7786
OAR-Sponsored NEA, Health Information
Network Resources
OAR-Sponsored NEA, Health Information
Network Resources
Region 2, Environmental Education,
212-637-3674
http://www.epa.gov/superfund/students/
clas act/haz-ed/hazindex.htm
OAR-Sponsored National PTA Resources
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Environmental Education Publications and Sources (continued)
Publication
Internet Teacher's Lounge
Kids Page
Leader's Guide to
Environmental Issues,
February 1997
Meeting New York State's
Crisis in School Facilities
Today
NEA Health Information
Network: IAQ in Schools
New England Area
Environmental Education
Grants Program, Federal
Fiscal Year 1998
Report to the New York State
Board of Regents on the
Environmental Quality
of Schools
School Recycling Programs:
A Handbook for Educators
(booklet)
Student Activity Sheet:
Tracking Pollution, a
Hazardous Whodunnit
(EPA810-F-93-003)
Source
http://www.epa.gov/region07/kids/teachres.htm
Region 7
http://www.epa.gov/region07/kids/welcome.htm
OAR-Sponsored National PTA Resources
Region 2, Environmental Education,
212-637-3674
OAR-Sponsored NEA Health Information
Network Resources
Region 1
http: //www. epa.gov/regi on/ra/ed/grant9 8. html
Region 2,
Environmental Education, 212-637-3674
Regions, 215-814-5000
NSCEP
Children's Health Resources
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Environmental Education Publications and Sources (continued)
Publication
The Source: Indoor Air, Water
and Your Schools
(Volumes 1-4, June 1997)
Tips to Protect Children from
Environmental Health Threats
(EPA 100-F-00-008)
Tips to Protect Children from
Environmental Threats-NSC
Video "My Kids"
Workshop Presentation Kit (for
use by PTA leaders to conduct
environmental workshops at
state PTA conventions)
Source
OAR-Sponsored NEA Health Information
Network Resources
NSCEP
OCHP, 202-260-7778
OCHP-sponsored NSC-EHC
202-293-2270
OAR-Sponsored National PTA Resources
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Enhanced Community Right-to-Know
Information Resources for Community Right-to-Know
Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic Substances
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Ariel Rios Building, MC-7404
1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W.
Washington, DC 20460-0001
Phone:202-260-1531
Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) home page: http://www.epa.gov/opptintr/tri
Defines TRI and provides information on accessing and using TRI data; program
development; national and international programs; stakeholder dialogue; contacts;
latest public data release report; training for newly added industries; guidance docu-
ments for newly added industries; and public meetings.
Community Right-to-Know Publications and Sources
Publication Source
1997 Toxics Release
Inventory Public Data
Release, April, 1999
1997 Toxics Release
Inventory State Fact Sheets
(EPA745-F-99-001,
April 1999)
Chemicals in Our
Community
http://www.epa.gov/opptintr/tri
NSCEP
http://www.epa.gov/opptintr
H
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I
Children's Health Resources
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Community Right-to-Know Publications and Sources
Publication
Chemical Right to Know
Fact Sheet Series
(EPA 745-F-98-002)
Children's Health Testing
Program
Children's Healthline
Consumer Labeling
Initiative (CLI)
EPA's Guide to
Environmental Database
Basics
Guidance for Chemical
Indexing Abstract
The Right to Know Network
TRI Information Kit
(EPA749-K-98-001)
The TRI Teachers Guide,
Getting Started (CD-ROM)
Source
NSCEP
http://www.epa.gov/opptintr/chemrtk/childhlt.htm
http ://www. epa.gov/reg03 esd 1/childhealth/index.htm
http://www.epa.gov/opptintr/labeling/index.html
OPPTS, Georgianne McDonald, 202-260-4182
http://www.epa.gov/reg3artd/tchem/chemind.htm
(for a complete copy, contact Debra L. Forman at
215-566-2073)
http://www.rtk.net
http://www.epa.gov/opptintr/tri/whatis.htm
or NSCEP
OPPTS, Georgianne McDonald, 202-260-4182
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Other Federal Agencies with Programs Related to
Children's Environmental Health
Nearly all federal agencies are pursuing children's environmental health. The Task
Force to Reduce Environmental Health Risks and Safety Risks to Children (estab-
lished by President Clinton's Executive Order on Protection of Children from
Environmental Health Risks and Safety Risks) involves EPA and the following:
• Office of Science and Technology Policy, National Science and Technology
Council (NSTC) Old Executive Office Building, 17th Street and Pennsylvania
Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20502, 202-456-7116. Internet:
http://www.whitehouse.gov/WH/EOP/OSTP/NSTC/html/NSTCJIome.html
• Council of Economic Advisers (CEA) Old Executive Office Building, 17th
Street and Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20502, 202-395-5042.
Internet: http://www.whitehouse.gov/WH/EOP/CEA/html/
• Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) Old Executive Office Building,
17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20502, 202-465-
6224. Internet: http://www.whitehouse.gov/CEQ
• Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Old Executive Office Building,
17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20502, 202-395-
5042. Internet: http://www.whitehouse.gov/OMB
• Department of Health and Human Services, National Institute of
Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) Building 101, Headquarters, P.O.
Box 12233, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, 919-541-3345. Internet:
http://www.niehs.nih.gov
• Department of Health and Human Services, Agency for Toxic Substances
and Disease Registry (ATSDR) Building 16, Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention, 1600 Clifton Road, N.E., Atlanta, GA 30333, 888-42-ATSDR.
Internet: http: //www. atsdr. cdc. gov/chil d
• Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention (CDC) Building 16, Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention, 1600 Clifton Road, N.E., Atlanta, GA 30333, 404-639-3534.
Internet: http://www.cdc.gov; and Mail Stop F-29, 4770 Buford Highway, N.E.,
Atlanta, GA 30341-3724, 888-232-6789. Internet:
http://www.cdc.gov/nceh/info/programs.html
Children's Health Resources
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Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Disease Prevention
and Health Promotion (ODPHP) Hubert H. Humphrey Building, 200
Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, DC 20202, 202-205-8611. Internet:
http://odphp.osophs.dhhs.gov
Department of Education (DoED) 400 Maryland Ave, S.W., Washington, DC
20202, 800-USA-LEARN. Internet: http://www.ed.gov
Department of Labor (DOL) Francis Perkins Building, 200 Constitution
Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20210, 202-693-4650. Internet:
http://www.dol.gov
Department of Justice (DOJ) Main Justice Building, 950 Pennsylvania
Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20530-0001, 202-514-2001. Internet:
http://www.usdoj .gov
Department of Energy (DOE) Forrestall Building, 1000 Independence
Avenue, S.W., Washington, DC 20585, 202-586-6210. Internet:
http://www.doe.gov
Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) HUD Building, 451
Seventh Street, S.W., Washington, DC 20410, 202-708-0417. Internet:
http ://www.hud.gov
Department of Transportation (DOT) National Highway Traffic Safety
Administration Nassif Building, 400 Seventh Street, S.W., Washington, DC
20590, 202-366-1111. Internet: http://www.dot.gov
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Jamie L. Whitten Federal Building, 1400
Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, DC 20250, 202-720-3631. Internet:
http ://www.usda.gov
Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) East West Towers, 4330 East
West Highway, Bethesda, MD 20814, 301-504-0213. Internet:
http://www.cpsc.gov
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Index
EPA Program Offices
Office of Air and Radiation
IAQ Tools for Schools 23
Working with Partners to Improve Indoor Air
Quality in Schools 23
National Education Association 23
American Association of School
Administrators 23
National Parent-Teacher Association 24
Urban Schools IAQ Project 24
Training School Nurses on IAQ Tools
for Schools and Asthma 25
School Intervention Study 25
American Lung Association Open
Airways 25
Environmental Tobacco Smoke Media
Campaign 29
Reducing Exposure to ETS through Child Care
Outreach 30
Community-Based Pediatrician Outreach 30
Hispanic Health Project 30
Asthma Media Campaign 33
Asthma Case Studies 33
Increasing Indoor Air Action in American Asian
and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Communities . . .33
Asthma and Allergy Essentials for Childcare
Providers 34
Asthma Collaborative Program 34
Early Intervention and Treatment of Asthma ... .35
Clearing The Air: Asthma and Indoor Air
Exposures 45
Let Kids Lead 51
SunWise School Program 59
Ozone Depletion Art Project 60
U.S.-Canada Air Quality Agreement 138
Office of Children's Health Protection
Centers of Excellence in Children's Environmental
Health Research 7
University of Southern California,
Department of Preventive Medicine,
Los Angeles, California 8
University of Iowa, College of Medicine,
Iowa City, Iowa 8
University of Michigan, School of Public
Health, Ann Arbor, Michigan 8
Johns Hopkins University, School of
Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland 8
University of California at Berkeley,
School of Public Health, Berkeley,
California 9
University of Washington, Department of
Environmental Health, Seattle,
Washington 9
Mount Sinai School of Medicine,
New York, New York 9
Columbia University, School of Public
Health, New York, New York 9
Children's Environmental Health and Safety
Inventory of Research 10
Institutionalizing Children's Health Protection
in EPA's Rule Making 10
Federal Advisory Committee on Protection of
Children's Environmental Health 10
Reviewing Existing Regulations and
Standards 11
Workshop on Valuing Children's Health
Effects 11
Child Health Champion Campaign 11
Incorporating Children's Environmental Health
into Youth-Based Organizations 14
Targeting Criminal Violations that Threaten the
Health and Safety of Children 15
State Profiles - Children's Environmental
Health 15
Promoting Children's Environmental Health
With Pediatric Chief Residents 15
Action to Eliminate Major Uses of the Pesticide
Dursban to Protect Children and Public
Health 15
Tips to Protect Children from Environmental
Threats 16
Eliminating Childhood Lead Poisoning: A
Federal Strategy Targeting Lead Paint
Hazards 65
Office of International Activities
Children's Lung Function Study in China 138
Alaska Native Cord Blood Monitoring
Program 139
Children's Health Resources
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National Strategy for Lead Risk Reduction in
Russia 139
Children's Blood Lead Level Screening in
Russia 140
Mobile Source Training/Lead Phase-Out
Training 140
Pesticides Management Project in
Central America 141
Microbiologically Safe Drinking Water
Laboratory Capacity in Latin America 142
Municipal Water Management in Latin
America 143
The Central American Small Community
Wastewater Treatment Project 143
Office of Policy, Economics and Innovation
Direct and Indirect Costs of Asthma and the
Potential Benefit of Education and
Intervention 45
Office of Prevention, Pesticides, and Toxic
Substances
Public Education and Outreach Grants 66
The National Cinema Outreach Pilot Project . . . .67
Proposed Labeling Restriction for Insect
Repellents used on Infants and Children 95
Cockroaches, Kids and Asthma Video 96
IPM in School Projects 98
IPM in Schools Training/Workshops 99
Children's Health Chemical Testing Program . . 159
Pre-Renovation Information Rule 159
Lower Threshold for Lead TRI Reporting 160
TRI Education Product 160
Office of Research and Development
Increased Vulnerability of Neonates to
Naphthalene and Its Derivatives 46
Childhood Susceptibility to Air Pollutants 52
Oro-Nasal Ventilation Pattern in Children and
Associated Fine Particulate Matter
Deposition 52
Exacerbation of Asthma among Inner
City Children 52
Acute Respiratory Health and Ambient Air
Quality in the Paso del Norte Airshed 53
Mechanisms of Age-Dependent Ozone-Induced
Airway Dysfunction 53
Deposition of Air Pollutants in the Developing
Human Lung 54
Assessment of Genetic Alterations in
Newborns and Adults 61
Fetal Metabolism of Aflatoxin Bl and
Susceptibility to Childhood Cancer 61
Identification of Lead Exposure and Risk
Reduction 66
Environmental Lead Risks 66
Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals Theme 86
Receptor and Signal Transduction Pathways in
Developmental Toxicity 86
Developmental and Reproductive Toxicology
(DART) Database 88
Heat Shock Model (Mechanisms) for
Developmental Toxicity 88
Biologically Based Dose-Response Modeling
of Developmental Toxicity 89
Texas Neural Tube Defect Project 89
Cellular and Molecular Markers of
Developmental Neurotoxicity 89
Environmental Exposures and Human
Neurological Function 90
Role of Apoptosis in Developmental Toxicity . . .90
Improved Evaluation of Gamete Function 90
Molecular Characterization of a Biological
Threshold in Developmental Toxicity 91
Using Biomarkers of Exposure and
Neurobehavioral Test Batteries to Assess
Children's Neurological Vulnerability to
Residential Exposure to
Tetrachloroethene (Perc) 91
Study of Exposure and Body Burden of
Children of Different Ages to Pesticides in
the Environment 102
Ingestion of Pesticides by Children in an
Agricultural Community on the U.S.-Mexico
Border 102
Exposure of Children to Persistent Organic
Pollutants and Pesticides 103
NAFTA Border Project: Pesticides and Kids . . .103
Microenvironmental Methods for Residential
Exposure to Pesticides 103
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Exposure of Children to Pesticides and
Toxics 104
Exposure of Children to Pesticides in Yuma
County, Arizona 104
Vulnerability of Young Children to
Organophosphate Pesticides and Selected
Metals Through Intermittent Exposures in
Yuma County, Arizona 105
Exposure of Children to Pesticide Residues . . . .105
Interactions and Mechanisms of Pesticide
Mixtures—Children's Risk 105
Pesticide Interactions Affecting Fate and
Transport and Children's Risk 106
Long-Term Potentiation as a Model System for
Cognitive Function 106
Pilot Study of Symptomatic Young Children for
Pesticide Exposure 106
Pilot Study of Immunologic Effects of Pesticide
Exposure in Infants 107
Biochemical Effects of Pesticides on the Central
Nervous System 107
Cognitive Effects of Pesticide Exposure During
Development 107
Identifying the Mode and Mechanism of
Action of Atrazine on Endocrine Function
in the Female Rat 108
The Effects of Pesticides on the Immune System
and Allergic Response 108
Perinatal Exposure of Rats to Toxic Chemicals
and Pesticides and the Effects on Immune
Function Development 108
A Study of Childhood Pesticide Poisoning in
the Lower Rio Grande Valley 109
Non-Occupational Pesticide Illness
Surveillance 109
Pesticide Exposure and Health Effects in
Young Children along the U.S.-Mexico
Border 109
Neurobehavioral Characterization of Susceptible
Populations and Pesticide Neurotoxicity . . . .110
Metabolic Basis for Age-Dependent Effects of
Pesticides 110
Chronic Arsenic Exposure and Reproductive
Effects from Drinking Water 113
Evaluation of Arsenic Metabolic Profiles in
Adults and Children 114
Disinfectant Byproducts and Birth Defects . . . .114
Community Intervention Studies for Drinking
Water 114
Exposure of Children and Susceptible
Populations to Chemicals in Drinking
Water 115
Genetic Damage Associated with DBFs 121
Rapid Scientific Methods for Measuring the
Quality of Bathing Beach Waters 121
Bathing Beaches Monitoring Protocols and
Communicating Swimming Activity Risk
to the Public 122
Human Exposure-to-Dose Models: Models and
Modeling Methods for Assessing Human
Exposure and Dose to Toxic Chemicals and
Pollutants 126
Dietary Exposure of Children 126
Developing Risk Assessment and Risk
Management Models for Exposure of
Children to Toxic Mold, Using Stachybotrys
chartarum as the Model Mold 127
Multipathway Exposure Modeling of Children
and Adults to Pesticides and Toxics 127
Workshop to Identify Critical Windows of
Exposure for Children's Health 128
Childhood Exposure Factors Handbook 128
IEUBK Model Expansion 128
EPA's Contribution to Children's Assessment
inNHANESIV 129
Children's Risk: Summary Statistics of Selected
Data Elements of NHANES III 130
Evaluation of Methods to Scale Pharmacokinetic
Parameters between Adults and Children . . .130
Ethnic and Minority Highly Exposed Children's
Populations 130
Children's Environmental Health and Safety
Inventory of Research 130
Protective Mechanisms Theme 131
North Carolina Birth Cohort Study 131
A Survey of Health and Environmental
Conditions along the Texas-Mexico
Border 132
Assessment of Chemical Mixtures 134
Children's Health Resources
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The EPA Children's Environmental Health Yearbook Supplement
Particulate Matter Epidemiology in Children . . .137
China Urban Respiratory Health Study 137
The Effects of Lead in Children and Adolescent
Development 139
Office of Solid Waste and Emergency Response
Development of Guidance on the Use of
Probabilistic Analysis in Risk Assessment
at Superfund Sites 122
Community Involvement in Superfund Risk
Assessments 123
Superfund Basic Research Program 123
Office of Solid Waste Risk Assessments 124
Office of Water
Children and Drinking Water Standards
Brochure 113
Microbial Disinfectants and Disinfection
Byproducts 115
Non-Commercial Fish Consumption Kit for
Health Care Providers 118
Drinking Water Quality Reports 161
EPA Regions
Region 1
Child Health Champion Program, Manchester,
New Hampshire 12
EPA Regional School-Based Programs to
Improve Indoor Air Quality 26
National Civil League Coalition Building
Training 35
ZAP Asthma Community Conference 36
Urban Asthma Community Conference and
Coalitions 36
Asbestos-in-Schools Rule 59
Environmental Justice Grant: Lead Action
Collaborative, Boston, Massachusetts 67
Consortium of North East States and Tribes
(CONEST) 68
New England Lead Coordinating Committee
(NELCC) 68
Tribal Based Environmental Protection (TBEP)
Program 69
Environmental Monitoring for Public Access and
Community Tracking (EMPACT) Lead Safe
Yard Program 69
EPA National Lead Poisoning Prevention and
Lead Hazard Awareness Public Education and
Outreach Program: Crittenton Hastings House,
Boston, Massachusetts 70
EPA Supplemental Environmental Projects
(SEP), Providence, Rhode Island 70
Keep It Clean Campaign, Video, Posters,
Billboards 70
Providence, Rhode Island, Mayor's Safe
Housing Lead Task Force 71
IMPACT CD-ROM Technology 71
Lead Safe Renovation Training - Interactive
CD-ROM 71
First Steps: Childcare Provider/Parent Lead
Awareness Manuals, Video, and CD-ROM . . .72
Urban Environmental Initiative (UEI)
Cooperative Agreement: Urban Revival, Inc.,
Prevent Lead Poisoning Project 72
Time Related Environmental Numeric Health
Data System (TRENHDS) CD-ROM 73
UEI Cooperative Agreement: Lead Poisoning
Prevention Awareness Program for Childcare
Providers 73
UEI Cooperative Agreement: Codman Square
Lead Poisoning Prevention Initiative 73
UEI Cooperative Agreement: Revision House,
Roxbury, Massachusetts 74
Healthy Beginnings: Lead Safe Families 74
Lead Suite CD-ROM 75
One Way to Increase the Commitment:
Conference on the Food Quality Protection
Act 96
Environmental Justice in the "Hood" 1999 . . . .146
An Afternoon with UEI: Community
Gardens/Urban Agriculture 147
Healthy Schools: Designing, Renovating, and
Maintaining Our School Buildings 147
Urban and Environmental Initiative 148
Region 2
Child Health Champion Program, Ironbound
Section, Newark, New Jersey 12
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The EPA Children's Environmental Health Yearbook Supplement
Puerto Rico Department of Health—Asthma
Coordinator 37
Integrated Pest Management in Urban Low-
Income Housing Projects 37
Educational Photoliterature as a Means to Reduce
Cockroach and Rodent Infestations Without
Pesticides in a Low-Income Setting 37
Asthma Education in East Harlem 38
Fighting Asthma in HUD Housing 38
Clinical Directors Network Asthma Intervention
Project 39
Camden-Rutgers University Asthma
Project 39, 75
English/Spanish Video on Reducing Indoor
Asthma Triggers in Inner City Dwellings . . .40
Meeting of Hispanic Biomedical Association . . .46
Asthma Intervention Study in Hunts Point 47
Montefiore Medical Center Asthma Intervention
Project 47
Allergen Levels in Homes of Native
Americans 48
Indoor Allergens Study in Puerto Rico 48
Educational Photoliterature on Pesticide
Misuse 99
Non-PRASA (Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer
Authority) Initiative 116
Fish Advisories 118
Determining Potential Exposure of Children
near Superfund Sites 124
Vega Baja Solid Waste Disposal 125
Education about Asthma, Environmental
Tobacco Smoke, and Lead 148
Asthma and Lead Abatement Training and
Education (ALATE), Camden, New Jersey,
and Northern Philadelphia, Pennsylvania . . . 148
Environmental Education Grants 149
Environmental Justice Grants 149
Getting a Head Start on Environmental
Education 150
Newark Asthma and Lead Poisoning Education
and Risk Reduction Project 150
Region 3
Child Health Champion Program, Anacostia
Section, Washington, DC 12
SunWise 60
Environmental Education Project 75
Lead-Safe Babies Project 76
Reducing Exposure to Lead in Drinking Water
in Philadelphia's School District 77
Childhood Risk Assessment at Superfund
Sites 91
The Children's Healthline 161
Region 4
Child Health Champion Program, Prichard,
Alabama 12
EPA Regional School-Based Programs to
Improve Indoor Air Quality 27
Outreach Campaign on Secondhand Smoke
and Children 31
Indoor Asthma and Allergen Control 40
Radon Mitigation for School Maintenance
Personnel 57
Lead Umbrella Workshop 77
The National Urban and Residential Pesticide
Control and Enforcement Program (Urban
Initiative) 100
Preparing Maps of Region 4 Depicting
Environmental, Health, and Demographic
Characteristics 132
Pediatric Environmental Health Specialty
Unit 145
Children's Pesticides, Asbestos, and Lead
(PAL) Initiative 151
Region 5
Child Health Champion Program, Near
South/North Side Sections, Milwaukee,
Wisconsin 13
EPA Regional School-Based Programs to
Improve Indoor Air Quality 27
Grant to Cuyahoga County Board of Health,
Ohio 31
Seminar Series on Asthma 40
Community Partnership to Improve the Lives
of Asthmatic Children in Chicago 41
Managing Asthma in the Childcare Setting 41
Children's Health Resources
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School Intervention Project—Headquarters/
Springfield School Indoor Air Risk Factors
Study 49
Asthma Risk Factor Study of Chicago Public
School, Before and After Implementation of
an Integrated Pest Management Program ... .49
Elevated Blood Lead Levels - Regions 5
States 78
Outreach to Migrant Farm Worker Health
Promoters on Reducing Lead Exposure
Risks to Children 78
Environmental WATCH Small Grants (Lead) . . .78
Environmental WATCH Small Grants
(Mercury) 87
Elemental Mercury Exposures in Children: A
Workshop to Examine the Scope of the
Problem and Opportunities for Prevention . . .87
Pesticide Regulatory Education Program 99
Environmental WATCH Small Grants
(Pesticides) 99
Safe Drinking Water Branch Compliance
Workshops 116
Reduction/Elimination of Persistent Toxic
Substance in Great Lakes 117
Children's Exposure Priorities at/near
Superfund Sites 125
Environmental Pollutant Exposures in Children
(EPEC) Project 133
Update on Chicago Cumulative Risk Initiative
(CCRI) Project 135
U.S.-Canada Great Lakes Water Quality
Agreement (GLWQA) 142
Center for Children's Environmental Health at
Cook County Hospital, Chicago, Illinois . . . 146
Second Annual Region 5 Children's
Environmental Health Conference 152
Pollution Prevention Educational
Demonstrations 152
Environmental WATCH Small Grants: Operation
Clean Sweep 153
Region 6
Child Health Champion Program, Cherokee
Nation, Talequah, Oklahoma 13
Childhood Asthma and Allergies
Conference 41, 154
Environmental House Calls 42
Indoor Biological Risk Factors for Asthma in
School Age Children 49
Lead Poisoning Prevention and Control
Training 79
TSCA Section 406(b) Pre-Renovation
Notification Rule 79
Bilingual (English/Spanish) Pesticide Safety
Bingo Game 97
Water Awareness Program 117
Environmental Health Workshops 144
Community-Based Training for Lay Health
Promoters (Promotores) and Primary Care
Clinicians 145
Children's Video: "E-Hazards"—They're Out
There 153
Children's Health Booklet: "E-Hazards"—
They're Out There 153
Educating Parents about Environmental
Dangers to Children 154
Healthy Environments and Living Places
(HELP) for Kids 154
Region 7
Child Health Champion Program, New Madrid
County, Missouri 13
EPA Regional School-Based Programs to
Improve Indoor Air Quality 28
Indoor Air Environment Program for
Children 31
Radon Outreach 57
Asbestos Outreach and Technical Assistance ... .59
Region 7 Lead-Based Paint Activities 80
Local Lead Awareness Campaign 81
Environmental Education in the Paris School
District 155
Region 8
Child Health Champion Program, Chippewa
Cree Tribe, Rocky Boy's Reservation,
Montana 13
EPA Regional School-Based Programs to
Improve Indoor Air Quality 28
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Index
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The EPA Children's Environmental Health Yearbook Supplement
ETS Outreach Project 32
Colorado Asthma Summit 42
Girl Scouts Asthma Awareness Badge 43
Indoor Environmental Intervention Study in
Grade Schools and Childcare Centers to Reduce
Childhood Asthma Symptoms 50
Radon Outreach/Community Projects 58
Environmental Justice and Children's Health
Data: Investigating Potential Relationships
with Spatial Data 62
Determining the Effectiveness of a Pesticide Risk
Reduction Program for Migrant Farm Workers
in Colorado 97
Assessment of Urban Residential Exposure
to2,4-D Ill
Children's Health Forum 156
Children's Health Display 156
Region 9
Child Health Champion Program, Nogales,
Arizona 13
Child Health Champion Program, East Side/Pico
Section, Los Angeles, California 14
EPA Regional School-Based Programs to
Improve Indoor Air Quality 28
Asbestos-in-Schools Rule 59
Region 9 Lead Poisoning Prevention 81
Farm Worker Safety in San Luis Obispo,
California 98
Reducing Use of Pesticides in Schools 100
Reducing Pesticide Misuse 101
Pesticides at the Border Ill
Site Assessment in Response to Cancer in
Children: McFarland, California 133
West Oakland Urban Pilot Project 134
Defensible Space Project 134
Epidemic logic Survey of Lead Exposure of
Children in Tijuana, Mexico 141
Hazardous Materials Awareness and
Preparedness Training 156
Region 10
Child Health Champion Program, Toppenish,
Washington 14
EPA Regional School-Based Programs to
Improve Indoor Air Quality 29
Environmental Tobacco Smoke Outreach 32
Neighbor to Neighbor Indoor Air Quality:
Environmental Justice Education Program . . .43
Master Home Environmentalist Program 43
Community Outreach on Indoor Air and
Asthma 44
Seattle Healthy Homes Project 50
Community-Based Environmental Monitoring
with the Toppenish School District and the
Yakama Nation 51
Community-Based Lead Projects in Oregon ... .82
Urban League Lead Outreach Program 82
Lead Hazard Reduction Act Compliance,
Oregon 83
"Runs Better Unleaded" Bus Campaign 83
Tri-Regional Lead Conference 83
Advance Notice of Funds Available for
Lead Grant Program for Indian Tribes 84
Focused Outreach to Realtors 84
Preventing Lead Exposure in Northern Idaho . . .85
Yakima County, Childhood Lead Poisoning
Reduction Program 85
PCBs in Schools 86
Shoalwater Bay Indian Tribe Reproductive
Health 92
IPM in Schools 100
Protecting Drinking Water Supplies 117
Environmental Health Resources for
Schools 157
Children's Health Resources
Page 217
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