Are Airport Security Scanners Actually Safe? We Still Don’t Have a Clear Answer
With the holiday travel season in full swing, millions of Americans will pass through airport security—and many will step into full-body scanners without a second thought. These scanners, officially called advanced imaging technology (AIT), have been a routine part of TSA screening since 2009. They were introduced after the “underwear bomber” incident that same year, when a passenger hid explosives in his clothing on a flight to Detroit. Yet despite their widespread use, AIT scanners were rolled out with very little transparency. Most travelers don’t realize that there has been no meaningful long-term study proving their safety, and very limited evidence that they prevent terrorism. As a health-focused practitioner, I can’t ignore this imbalance. I’ve opted out of body scanners for years, not because I fear flying—but because the benefits of this technology still aren’t clearly established, while the risks remain uncertain.
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Navigating Environmental Toxins in Everyday Life
In our modern world, we are constantly surrounded by a myriad of environmental toxins that can have a profound impact on our health. From pollutants in the air we breathe to chemicals in the products we use, these toxins can contribute to a range of health issues. Environmental medicine, a field that examines the connections between environmental factors and health, has become increasingly important in understanding and addressing these concerns. In this article, we will explore the impact of environmental toxins on health, discuss ways to minimize exposure, and delve into detoxification methods supported by natural medicine.
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The Harmful Effects of Plastic: What’s the Alternative?
A staggering eight million tons of plastic are dumped into the oceans every year; plastic from carrier bags, packaging, food containers and drink bottles. Once released into the environment, plastic waste leaches toxic chemicals which kills wildlife and contaminates the ecosystem. Marine animals eat the plastic which compromises their health and spreads these toxic chemicals through the food chain. The chemicals in plastics have been linked to serious health conditions in humans, including birth defects, infertility, cognitive decline and cancer. Learn about the harmful effects of plastics and 7 ways to reduce plastic use to support your health and the environment.
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