The public health impacts of concentrated animal feeding operations on local communities

Fam Community Health. 2010 Jan-Mar;33(1):11-20. doi: 10.1097/FCH.0b013e3181c4e22a.

Abstract

Large-scale farm animal production facilities, also known as concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs), release a significant amount of contaminants into the air and water. Adverse health effects related to exposure to these contaminants among CAFO workers have been well-documented; however, less is known about their impact on the health of residents in nearby communities. Epidemiological research in this area suggests that neighboring residents are at increased risk of developing neurobehavioral symptoms and respiratory illnesses, including asthma. Additional research is needed to better understand community-scale exposures and health outcomes related to the management practices and emissions of CAFOs.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Animal Husbandry / organization & administration*
  • Animal Husbandry / standards
  • Animals
  • Animals, Domestic
  • Child
  • Disease Vectors
  • Environmental Exposure / adverse effects*
  • Humans
  • Nervous System Diseases / epidemiology
  • Occupational Exposure / adverse effects*
  • Outcome Assessment, Health Care*
  • Public Health / economics
  • Public Health / standards*
  • Public Health / statistics & numerical data
  • Respiratory Tract Diseases / epidemiology
  • Risk Factors
  • United States
  • United States Department of Agriculture
  • United States Environmental Protection Agency
  • Waste Management / standards
  • Water Pollutants

Substances

  • Water Pollutants