INFLUENCE OF THE ENVIRONMENT ON PUBLIC HEALTH

Abstract

The environment accompanies a person at every step — from the morning breath of fresh or polluted air to an evening walk in the park that can relieve stress better than any medicine. Everything around us affects our health, sometimes subtly and sometimes very noticeably. According to WHO, about 23–25% of all diseases are related to environmental factors. At the same time, natural resources, clean spaces, and green areas can improve well-being, strengthen the immune system, reduce anxiety levels, and help the body recover.

This article examines how various components of the environment—air and water quality, noise levels, chemical exposure, and the presence of natural areas—can both deteriorate and improve human health. It considers not only the negative impact of pollution, but also the positive role of nature, clean territories, and favorable ecological conditions.

The aim of the study is to reveal the dual nature of the environment and explain why human health directly depends on the quality of the space in which one lives. The paper also discusses measures that can reduce environmental risks and enhance the positive influence of natural surroundings to ensure a safer, more comfortable, and healthier life for people.