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What is an example of the way the technological interconnectedness of the contemporary world creates health risks?

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Final answer:

Technological interconnectedness can create health risks such as the contamination of water supply systems, urban air pollution, and the rapid spread of diseases like COVID-19.

Step-by-step explanation:

A negative example of the links between environment and health can be viewed in the Flint, Michigan, water crisis. In this case, pollution of the city water system negatively affected health outcomes due to high exposure to lead-contaminated water. This is an example of how technological interconnectedness can create health risks as the use of outdated infrastructure and lack of proper maintenance led to the contamination of the water supply, impacting the health of the population.

In addition to this, modern hazards caused by technological development contribute to health risks in developing countries. For example, urban air pollution is highest in parts of China, India, and some cities in Asia and Latin America. Poor people in these countries often experience a "double burden" of traditional and modern environmental health risks, leading to a higher total burden of illness and death compared to rich countries.

Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic exemplifies the health risks created by globalization and technological developments. The virus spread rapidly across the globe through travel and trade, highlighting the interconnectedness of our world and the impact it can have on public health.

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User Matt
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