This practice lab utilized the principles of environmental health to evaluate the hazards posed by lead exposure in a mock community called HappyTown. This lab served as the final assignment for MPH 613.

HappyTown, USA is a fictional city with a diverse community and is welcoming to newcomers including young families, retirees, and recent immigrants. The city has many apartment buildings and single-family homes built before the 1950s. They also offer restaurants and stores that sell products which are known to contain lead.

The purpose of this assignment was to first identify all sources of lead exposure and at-risk populations. Sources included housing, toys, jewelry, cosmetics, and food for sale in the community. Lead is especially dangerous for young children, and this posed a large risk since the community included many families with children. Additionally, families that live in older apartment buildings are more at risk of being exposed to chipping paint that may contain lead.

Risk communication strategies were also identified. Cultural factors had to be taken into account to ensure that the diverse population was made aware of the risks associated with lead exposure and the sources of exposure in their community.

This practice lab is of significance in the field of public health to identify hazards in communities and those populations who are most at risk. Further, once target populations are identified it is crucial to communicate the risks to them in a way that is easily understood and allows them to take actions to protect themselves.

Practice-Lab-Integrated-Lead-Poisoning-Prevention