M15: Final Blog!

Final Blog!

IN THIS WEEK'S BLOG, please provide a summary of the highlights of your learning for the semester. I'd also especially like to know how the small group blogging experience was for you? 

It seems hard to believe that this semester is already coming to the end. I enjoyed learning about the many interesting areas of environmental and occupational health within public health. Areas such as toxic chemicals in a person’s everyday life like personal care or household products. I’m still blown away that regulations for personal care products have not been updated since the 1930s. Another area that blew my mind had to due with the safety of drinking water, and how the bottled water industry has been marketing to consumers that tap water is unsafe to drink, even though tap water is better regulated than most bottled water. 

There were so many topics regarding environmental health that completely blew my mind. One area in particular was agriculture and food, and how live stock are being provided antibiotics as a way to prevent disease. However, as a result of this, individuals who work directly with these animals are becoming resistant to the current antibiotics on the market. From a public health standpoint, this is a huge issue. If people become sick, and the usual antibiotics do not work then there is the potential for an epidemic to take place. Additionally, the occupational health and safety module made me realize just how vulnerable workers are to their work environment, and how important safety is even in an office setting. From topics such as waste, climate change, and disaster preparation the course provided a solid foundation regarding environmental health issues and important implications for public health professionals. 

This is my first experience blogging as part of a small group, and I found it very beneficial. It allowed me analyze and present my thoughts and knowledge after going through each module. Also, through reading the blogs of the other group members, I was able to learn and gain further insight on the same topic, but from a different point of view. For these reasons, I would recommend utilizing the small group blogging in your future classes.