Integrating Environmental Health into Primary Care: Addressing Gaps in Screening and Practice.

Abstract

The environment in which people live, work, and play is a key dimension of health, with environmental exposures contributing significantly to a wide range of adverse health outcomes. Despite strong evidence linking these exposures to disease, primary care physicians underscreen for related risks, resulting in missed opportunities for prevention and early intervention. Conditions such as lead poisoning and asthma are prevalent examples of environmentally mediated illnesses where gaps in screening persist. Strengthening screening in primary care is essential. Although certain barriers exist, guidelines and available resources can support the effective integration of environmental health considerations into routine primary care practice.