Indicators of ocean health and human health: Developing a research and monitoring framework--Commentary

UNCW Author/Contributor (non-UNCW co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
Daniel G Baden, Director (Creator)
Institution
The University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW )
Web Site: http://library.uncw.edu/

Abstract: We need to critically assess the present quality of the marine ecosystem, especially the connection between ecosystem change and threats to human health. In this article we review the current state of indicators to link changes in marine organisms with eventual effects to human health, identify research opportunities in the use of indicators of ocean and human health, and discuss how to establish collaborations between national and international governmental and private sector groups. We present a synthesis of the present state of understanding of the connection between ocean health and human health, a discussion of areas where resources are required, and a discussion of critical research needs and a template for future work in this field. To understand fully the interactions between ocean health and human health, programs should be organized around a “models-based” approach focusing on critical themes and attributes of marine environmental and public health risks. Given the extent and complex nature of ocean and human health issues, a program networking across geographic and disciplinary boundaries is essential. The overall goal of this approach would be the early detection of potential marine-based contaminants, the protection of marine ecosystems, the prevention of associated human illness, and by implication, the development of products to enhance human well-being. The tight connection between research and monitoring is essential to develop such an indicator-based effort. Key words: biologic effects, biomarkers, contamination, human health, indicators, ocean health. Environ Health Perspect 110:839–845 (2002). [Online 17 July 2002] http://ehpnet1.niehs.nih.gov/docs/2002/110p839-845knap/abstract.html

Additional Information

Publication
Knap, A., Dewailly, E., Furgal, C., Galvin, J., Baden, D., Bowen, R. E., et al. (2002). Indicators of ocean health and human health: Developing a research and monitoring framework--Commentary. Environmental health perspectives, 110(9), 842-845. Retrieved from http://ehpnet1.niehs.nih.gov/docs/2002/110p839-845knap/abstract.html. [Reproduced with permission from Environmental Health Perspectives.]
Language: English
Date: 2008
Keywords
Biochemical markers, Marine ecology
Subjects
Marine ecology
Biochemical markers

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