1Institute of Environmental Medicine, Seoul National University Medical Research Center, Seoul, Korea
2Seoul Environmental Health Center, Seoul, Korea
3Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Inha University College of Medicine, Incheon, Korea
4Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, Kangwon National University, Chuncheon, Korea
5Gangwon Environmental Health Center, Chuncheon, Korea
6Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Gil Medical Center, Gachon University College of Medicine, Incheon, Korea
7Incheon Environmental Health Center, Incheon, Korea
8Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Daejeon University, Daejeon, Korea
9Daejeon Environmental Health Center, Daejeon, Korea
10Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Ulsan, Korea
11Ulsan Environmental Health Center, Ulsan, Korea
12Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Medicine, Dong-A University, Busan, Korea
13Busan Environmental Health Center, Busan, Korea
14Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Korea
15Chungbuk Environmental Health Center, Cheongju, Korea
16Jeju National University College of Medicine, Jeju, Korea
17Jeju Environmental Health Center, Jeju, Korea
18Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Institute of Medical Science, College of Medicine, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Korea
19Gyeongsangnam-do Environmental Health Center, Jinju, Korea
20Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Korea
21Gyeonggi-do Environmental Health Center, Suwon, Korea
22Department of Preventive Medicine, Dongguk University College of Medicine, Gyeongju, Korea
23Gyeongsangbuk-do Environmental Health Center, Gyeongju, Korea
24Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Chonnam National University Medical School and Chonnam National University Hwasun Hospital, Hwasun, Korea
25Jeollanam-do Environmental Health Center, Hwasun, Korea
26Division of Environmental Health, Korea Environment Institute, Sejong, Korea
27Environmental Health Center of Environmental Health Big Data, Sejong, Korea
28Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Soon Chun Hyang University School of Medicine, Gumi, Korea
29Environmental Health Center for Hazardous Chemical Exposure, Gumi, Korea
30Department of Nano Chemical and Biological Engineering, Seokyeong University, Seoul, Korea
31Seokyeong University Environmental Health Research Information Center, Seoul, Korea
32Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Wonju College of Medicine, Wonju Severance Christian Hospital, Yonsei University, Wonju, Korea
33Environmental Health Big Data Center, Wonju, Korea
34Department of Preventive Medicine, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
35Environmental Health Center, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
36School of Environmental Engineering, University of Seoul, Seoul, Korea
37Environmental Health Center of Korean Society of Environmental Health and Toxicology and University of Seoul, Seoul, Korea
38Environmental Health Center of Korean Society of Environmental Health, Seoul, Korea
*Corresponding author: Hwan-Cheol Kim,
Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Inha University College
of Medicine, 27, Inhang-Ro, Jung-gu, Incheon 22332, Korea, E-mail:
carpediem@inha.ac.kr
• Received: November 20, 2024 • Revised: January 6, 2025 • Accepted: January 7, 2025
This is an Open-Access article distributed under the terms of the
Creative Commons Attribution Non-Commercial License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0) which permits
unrestricted non-commercial use, distribution, and reproduction in any
medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
This study explores the development, roles, and key initiatives of the Regional
Environmental Health Centers in Korea, detailing their evolution through four
distinct phases and their impact on environmental health policy and local
governance. It chronicles the establishment and transformation of these centers
from their inception in May 2007, through four developmental stages. Originally
named Environmental Disease Research Centers, they were subsequently renamed
Environmental Health Centers following legislative changes. The analysis
includes the expansion in the number of centers, the transfer of
responsibilities to local governments, and the launch of significant projects
such as the Korean Children’s Environmental Health Study (Ko-CHENS ).
During the initial phase (May 2007–February 2009), the 10 centers
concentrated on research-driven activities, shifting from a media-centered to a
receptor-centered approach. In the second phase, prompted by the enactment of
the Environmental Health Act, six additional centers were established,
broadening their scope to address national environmental health issues. The
third phase introduced Ko-CHENS, a 20-year national cohort project designed to
influence environmental health policy by integrating research findings into
policy frameworks. The fourth phase marked a decentralization of authority,
empowering local governments and redefining the centers' roles to focus
on regional environmental health challenges. The Regional Environmental Health
Centers have significantly evolved and now play a crucial role in addressing
local environmental health issues and supporting local government policies.
Their capacity to adapt and respond to region-specific challenges is essential
for the effective implementation of environmental health policies, reflecting
geographical, socioeconomic, and demographic differences.
Industrialization has played a significant role in increasing environmental
pollution and the prevalence of diseases associated with hazardous chemicals,
profoundly impacting public health, quality of life, and socioeconomic systems.
In 1985, South Korea faced a major public health crisis known as the
"Onsan Disease" in Onsan-myeon, Ulsan. This incident was triggered
by pollutants discharged into the air and water from a nearby metal industrial
complex, leading to neuralgia, skin diseases, and systemic pain among 700 local
residents, including children. During the 1990s, health issues surfaced among
residents living near the Yeosu Yeocheon industrial complex, attributed to
unpleasant odors, particulate matter, and toxic gases released by oil refining
and fertilizer manufacturing facilities [1].
The 1991 Nakdong River phenol contamination incident, resulting from two illegal
discharges in March and April, polluted the middle and downstream sections of
the Nakdong River. This event heightened national awareness of environmental
issues and prompted substantial changes in environmental policies [2].
Abandoned metal mines, such as the one in Goseong County, Gyeongnam, have been
linked to suspected cases of itai-itai disease among nearby residents [3]. Additionally, residents living near
cement factories have experienced health impacts, including chronic obstructive
pulmonary disease and pneumoconiosis, due to exposure to dust. These incidents
exemplify the public health damages caused by environmental pollution during the
industrialization process [4].
Furthermore, the production, processing, and use of various chemical substances
have led to significant environmental issues. There is increasing evidence that
these environmental exposures negatively impact biologically vulnerable
populations, such as infants and children. Specifically, these exposures can
affect respiratory and pulmonary functions [5,6], growth and development
[7], neurocognitive development [8–11], and renal function [12].
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances were detected in 99% of participants in the
National Environmental Health Survey [13]. Higher concentrations of harmful substances in adults were
associated with the use of personal hygiene products, including cosmetics and
hair care items, as well as food storage containers [14,15].
Additionally, children's use of slime or clay was linked to exposure to
bisphenol A [16].
Public awareness of environmental issues is increasing, leading to a greater
interest in the relationship between the environment and human health. This
shift has encouraged the adoption of lifestyles that emphasize sustainability
and well-being. In response, the Ministry of Environment, pursuant to Article 26
of the Environmental Health Act [17], has
operated Environmental Health Centers since 2007. These centers aim to
proactively manage health risks linked to environmental hazards.
Objectives
This study explores the evolution of Environmental Health Centers over time and
assesses the roles and significance of the current Regional Environmental Health
Centers by evaluating their status and functions.
Evolution of Environmental Health Centers in Korea
Phase 1: Environmental Disease Research Centers (May 2007–February
2009)
Phase 1 marked the establishment of Environmental Disease Research Centers
following the formulation of the 10-Year Comprehensive Environmental Health Plan
in 2006 and the drafting of the Environmental Health Act [18]. This stage represented a shift from the traditional
media-centered approach, which focused on air, water, waste, and soil, to a
receptor-centered approach that emphasized the impacts of environmental
pollution on humans and ecosystems. Ten centers were designated in total: eight
focused on environmental diseases, one on hazardous factors, and one on asbestos
[19].
In 2007, three specialized research centers were established: the Asthma Research
Center at Korea University Anam Hospital, the Atopic Dermatitis Research Center
at Samsung Medical Center, and the Pediatric Developmental Disorders Research
Center at Dankook University Medical Center. These centers focused on
identifying vulnerable populations, investigating environmental factors
influencing asthma, and exploring the links between environmental exposure and
pediatric developmental disorders.
In 2008, six additional centers were established to focus on congenital
disorders, allergic diseases, pediatric cancers, and asbestos-related diseases.
Notable initiatives included monitoring and public health interventions in areas
impacted by environmental pollution, such as the oil spill in Taean [20]. By 2009, the Asbestos Pulmonary
Disease Research Center at Soonchunhyang University Cheonan Hospital had been
designated to study asbestos-related diseases.
This phase was pivotal in changing the paradigm surrounding environmental issues
and enhancing public awareness of environmental diseases. However, its emphasis
on research faced difficulties in effectively communicating findings to the
public and translating them into actionable policies [21].
Phase 2: Environmental Health Centers (March 2009–2015)
The second phase commenced with the enactment of the Environmental Health Act in
2009, which led to the renaming of the centers as Environmental Health Centers.
This phase signaled a nationwide expansion to 16 centers, including nine
disease-focused centers, five centers concentrating on hazardous factors, and
two centers specifically addressing asbestos-related issues.
The six new centers are each dedicated to a specific area of research: Ulsan
University Hospital focuses on atopic diseases, Yonsei University Wonju Campus
investigates natural radon exposure, Gangwon National University Hospital
explores respiratory diseases, Dong-A University studies heavy metal exposure,
Soonchunhyang University Gumi Hospital examines harmful gas exposure, and Asan
Medical Center researches hazardous chemicals.
During this phase, the Environmental Health Centers played a critical role in
addressing emerging environmental health issues and generating diverse research
outcomes.
Phase 3: Environmental Health Centers with National Cohort Projects
(2015–2019)
Phase 3 introduced the Korean Children's Environmental Health Study
(Ko-CHENS) [22], a 20-year national
cohort project aimed at examining the effects of environmental hazards on
growth, development, allergies, and emotional health from fetal to adolescent
stages. Between 2015 and 2020, approximately 70,000 pregnant women enrolled in
the study, with follow-up assessments planned until their children reach the age
of 16.
Environmental Health Centers engaged in various cohort-related activities,
including conducting environmental surveys, collecting biological samples,
assessing growth and neurocognitive development, and monitoring indoor air
quality. Throughout this phase, the centers strategically shifted their focus,
contributing to the development of comprehensive environmental health policies
through evidence-based research.
Phase 4: Regional Environmental Health Centers (2020–Present)
The Fourth Comprehensive Environmental Health Plan (2020) highlighted the
importance of a "community-centered environmental health
foundation" [23]. This shift
transferred responsibilities from the central government to local governments,
thereby strengthening the legal framework for regional environmental health
planning, health impact assessments, and governance.
Regional Environmental Health Centers are now focused on developing local
environmental health systems, addressing issues specific to each region,
managing regional governance, and delivering tailored environmental health
services. By integrating local characteristics into their policies, these
centers strive to improve community well-being and promote sustainable
development.
In addition to the Regional Environmental Health Centers, four Policy
Environmental Health Centers have been established to support the development
and implementation of environmental health policies. These centers specialize in
different areas of expertise and are divided into four distinct categories. The
Environmental Big Data Center, managed by the Korea Environment Institute, is
dedicated to developing an integrated environmental health information system.
It focuses on monitoring environmental factors and using advanced data analysis
techniques to predict health impacts. The Environmental Toxicology Center,
situated at Soonchunhyang University Gumi Hospital, aims to create a
comprehensive database of chemical information related to bioactive ingredients
found in consumer products. This center also plays a crucial role in enhancing
public education and outreach concerning toxic substances.
The Environmental Health Research Information Center, managed by Seokyeong
University, consolidates environmental health research into a centralized
database. It performs literature reviews and generates reports on both domestic
and international environmental health issues and research trends, offering
valuable insights for policymakers and researchers. The Health Big Data Center,
located at Wonju Severance Christian Hospital, leverages data from the National
Health Insurance Service to produce detailed statistics on environmental
diseases. The work of this center enhances our understanding of the connections
between environmental factors and public health, aiding in evidence-based
decision-making. Together, these centers provide essential infrastructure and
expertise that bolster environmental health policies and research in Korea.
To cultivate environmental health professionals, the Department of Preventive
Medicine at Catholic University, University of Seoul, Inha University Hospital,
and the Korean Society of Environmental Health are actively training experts in
preventive medicine, toxicology, occupational and environmental medicine, and
environmental health sciences.
Status and role of regional Environmental Health Centers
Current status
As of December 2024, 14 Regional Environmental Health Centers are operational
across South Korea, located in Gangwon, Chungnam, Seoul, Incheon, Daejeon,
Ulsan, Busan, Chungbuk, Jeju, Jeonbuk, Gyeongnam, Gyeonggi, Gyeongbuk, and
Jeonnam (Table 1) [24]. These centers are hosted by leading institutions,
including Kangwon National University Hospital in Gangwon, Ajou University in
Gyeonggi, Gyeongsang National University in Gyeongnam, Dongguk University in
Gyeongbuk, and Seoul National University College of Medicine in Seoul, among
others (Fig. 1).
Table 1.
Current status of regional Environmental Health Centers (as of
December 2024)
No.
Designated area
Host institution
Operating period
Project focus
1
Gangwon
Kangwon National University
Hospital
`20.01.01–`24.12.31
Establishing an environmental health
foundation for the Gangwon region
2
Chungnam
Soonchunhyang University Cheonan
Hospital
`21.01.04–`24.12.31
Establishing an environmental health
foundation for the Chungnam region
3
Seoul
Seoul National University College of
Medicine
`22.03.02–`26.12.31
Establishing an environmental health
foundation for the Seoul region
4
Incheon
Gachon University
`22.03.02–`26.12.31
Establishing an environmental health
foundation for the Incheon region
5
Daejeon
Daejeon University
`22.03.02–`26.12.31
Establishing an environmental health
foundation for the Daejeon region
6
Ulsan
Ulsan University Hospital
`22.03.02–`26.12.31
Establishing an environmental health
foundation for the Ulsan region
7
Busan
Dong-A University
`22.03.02–`26.12.31
Establishing an environmental health
foundation for the Busan region
8
Chungbuk
Chungbuk National University
Hospital
`22.03.02–`26.12.31
Establishing an environmental health
foundation for the Chungbuk region
9
Jeju
Jeju National University
`22.03.02–`26.12.31
Establishing an environmental health
foundation for the Jeju region
10
Jeonbuk
Jeonbuk National University
`23.04.01–`27.12.31
Establishing an environmental health
foundation for the Jeonbuk region
11
Gyeongnam
Gyeongsang National University
`23.04.01–`27.12.31
Establishing an environmental health
foundation for the Gyeongnam region
12
Gyeonggi
Ajou University
`24.03.20–`28.12.31
Establishing an environmental health
foundation for the Gyeonggi region
13
Gyeongbuk
Dongguk University (WISE
Campus)
`24.03.20–`28.12.31
Establishing an environmental health
foundation for the Gyeongbuk region
14
Jeonnam
Chonnam National University
Hospital, Hwasun
`24.03.20–`28.12.31
Establishing an environmental health
foundation for the Jeonnam region
Fig. 1.
Current landscape of Environmental Health Centers in Korea.
Personnel structure
The Ministry of Environment mandates that organizations eligible to operate
Regional Environmental Health Centers must possess the capability to conduct
research and surveys, as well as provide policy support related to environmental
health information [25]. Eligible
organizations include national or public research institutions, universities,
and public or private hospitals located within the specified region.
Each center is comprised of a director, a secretariat head, and administrative
staff. The director is generally an expert in disciplines pertinent to the
center's goals, while the secretariat head is usually a specialist with a
background in environmental health, either academic or professional. Currently,
the directors are predominantly physicians and professors with expertise in
preventive medicine, occupational and environmental medicine, and respiratory
medicine. Secretariat heads, on the other hand, often hold doctoral degrees in
fields such as preventive medicine, public health, or environmental engineering,
reflecting the center's focus. As of 2024, the 14 Regional Environmental
Health Centers employ approximately 200 personnel, including both full-time and
part-time staff. The staffing at each center varies, ranging from as many as 30
to as few as 5 members, based on the center's size and operational
scope.
Funding
The financial support for Regional Environmental Health Centers is equally
divided between the Ministry of Environment and local governments, with each
contributing 50%. Starting in 2024, each center will operate with an annual
budget of approximately 600 million KRW, which is split evenly between the
Ministry of Environment and local governments, each providing 300 million
KRW.
Major activities
The primary activities of the Regional Environmental Health Centers are outlined
in Table 2.
Table 2.
Activities of regional Environmental Health Centers
Category
Detailed activities
Establishing preliminary monitoring
systems
- Investigation and monitoring of
environmental diseases and hazardous factors - Exposure
and health monitoring in environmentally vulnerable
areas - Chemical exposure assessment using biological
samples (e.g., blood or urine) by region
Strengthening regional environmental
health systems
- Supporting the development of
regional environmental health policies - Establishing
collaborative governance for environmental health -
Supporting health impact assessments and petition
handling - Building regional environmental health big
data - Conducting expert forums and related initiatives
to strengthen the regional environmental health foundation
Developing regional risk communication
systems
- Establishing and operating
environmental health information delivery systems -
Hosting environmental health camps for residents on local
environmental health issues - Conducting environmental
health communication activities (e.g., Environmental Health Open
Concerts, newsletters)
Collaboration in key research projects
of the Ministry of Environment
- Conducting health impact studies in
environmentally vulnerable areas - Participating in the
Ko-CHENS - Supporting investigations and assessments
related to humidifier disinfectants - Conducting
preventive initiatives for vulnerable groups with environmental
diseases - Health support projects in health impact
assessment areas
Other activities
- Supporting the Environmental Health
Integrated Information System - Conducting research,
investigations, or providing consultations, as stipulated in the
Environmental Health Act or as requested by the Minister of
Environment or local governments
Establishing a preliminary monitoring system
Centers are responsible for investigating and monitoring environmental
diseases and hazardous factors. Their activities include assessing and
monitoring exposure in vulnerable areas, as well as using biological samples
(e.g., blood and urine) to evaluate region-specific exposures.
Building a regional environmental health foundation
While the authority and responsibility for environmental health have been
transferred to local governments, many still lack the necessary human and
systemic resources for effective implementation. The centers are vital in
supporting local governments to carry out environmental health policies.
They assist in developing regional environmental health plans, establishing
collaborative governance structures, conducting regional health impact
assessments, and building big data systems for environmental health. This
support provides the scientific evidence needed for local policymaking.
Facilitating risk communication
Centers increase public awareness of environmental health by providing
information to local residents, offering tailored education programs for
sensitive populations, conducting environmental health camps, and
disseminating information online. These efforts help to raise public
consciousness about environmental health.
Supporting research and investigations
Centers support health impact assessments in environmentally vulnerable areas
and support projects like the Children's Environmental Health Birth
Cohort Study.
Other activities
Centers are responsible for managing the Environmental Health Integrated
Information System, which was established by the Ministry of Environment.
They also conduct research, investigations, and consultations as required by
the Environmental Health Act or as requested by the Minister of Environment
and local governments.
Establishment of a preliminary monitoring system for environmental
hazards
- Health impact surveys supported vulnerable populations, with 2,776
individuals completing questionnaires and 2,893 undergoing clinical
examinations.
- For environmental hazard monitoring, 34 internet of
things–based air quality monitoring stations were
established, and a database of 10,788 entries was developed.
Strengthening regional environmental health systems
- Identifying regional environmental health issues and supporting the
development of environmental health plans.
- Article 6-2 of the Environmental Health Act mandates that mayors
and governors formulate regional environmental health plans
considering local characteristics. Centers in Seoul, Jeju, and
Gangwon have supported the formulation and implementation of these
plans for respective local governments.
Strengthening governance for environmental health systems
- Projects were initiated to strengthen governance by facilitating
local environmental health petitions and supporting risk
communication during health impact assessments, as specified in
Article 17 of the Environmental Health Act. For example, the Ulsan
Center carried out health impact assessments and improved
communication for residents living near an asphalt concrete plant.
Additionally, governance structures were reinforced by disseminating
information about regional environmental health conditions and
policy trends, and by exploring solutions to local challenges.
Advancing risk communication in environmental health
- Efforts include establishing cooperative frameworks with relevant
institutions to efficiently address environmental health issues.
The "Mobile Environmental School" initiative was
launched in collaboration with environmental disease prevention
centers to provide elementary students with education and activities
focused on the climate crisis and disease prevention. In 2023, this
program reached 1,159 students across 55 classes in 24 schools,
including those in underserved island regions, thereby ensuring
equitable access to environmental health education.
- An environmental health concert was held to address
citizens' concerns about environmental health through a
series of online and offline lectures, complemented by real-time
Q&A sessions. In 2023, the event comprised five sessions,
which were attended by 1,474 participants, thereby increasing public
awareness.
Hosting international symposia on environmental health
- Centers collaborated with domestic and international experts to
host symposia, fostering knowledge-sharing and networking. For
example, in 2024, the Seoul Center co-hosted two symposia with WHO
ACE, focusing on "Environmental Health Indicators for Climate
Change." These events shared global and local case studies
and identified actionable points for Seoul.
Health Sharing Camps and support programs
- Health Sharing Camps were organized to serve individuals with
environmental diseases and vulnerable populations, offering
educational and ecological experiences. In 2023, a total of 27 camps
were conducted, engaging 1,097 participants in collaboration with
the National Park Service.
- The Vulnerable Population Support Program offered medical and
prescription cost assistance to 118 individuals with environmental
diseases.
Participation in the National Children's Environmental Health
Birth Cohort Study
- Since 2015, various centers have been involved in a long-term
cohort project aimed at investigating the health impacts of
environmental factors from pregnancy through adolescence. As of
2023, follow-up studies have been conducted for 2,223 children.
Conclusion
The role of Environmental Health Centers has evolved significantly over time.
Initially established as Environmental Disease Research Centers with a focus on
research-oriented activities, their responsibilities have now expanded to include
education, public outreach, and risk communication with citizens. This transition
reflects a shift from a centrally driven model to one where local governments are
supported in developing and implementing environmental health policies, as well as
in identifying and addressing region-specific issues.
Currently, 14 Environmental Health Centers are operational, and the Ministry of
Environment intends to increase this number. Addressing environmental health
challenges necessitates tailored solutions that consider the geographical,
environmental, socioeconomic, and demographic characteristics specific to each
region. In this context, the Regional Environmental Health Centers function as
specialized institutions that assist in developing and implementing localized
environmental health policies.
Moreover, these centers play an important role in promoting governance by
facilitating discussions among local governments, experts, and residents to address
regional environmental issues. They serve as communication hubs, responding to the
growing public need for information on environmental health and offering services
focused on citizen well-being. As primary contacts for local environmental health
matters, these centers aim to boost public involvement and provide concrete benefits
to communities, in line with the increasing awareness and expectations of citizens
about the relationship between the environment and health.
Authors' contributions
Project administration: Kim HC
Conceptualization: Kim HC, Kim WJ, Hong YC, Choi WJ, Hwang SY, Lee J, Hong YS,
Kim YD, Hong SC, Sung JH, Jeong I, Lee K, Park WJ, Bae HJ, Yoon SY, Lee C, Jeong
KS, Bae S, Choi J, Kim HH
Methodology & data curation: Park MS, Kim HC
Funding acquisition: not applicable
Writing – original draft: Park MS, Kim HC
Writing – review & editing : Park MS, Kim HC, Kim WJ, Hong YC, Choi
WJ, Hwang SY, Lee J, Hong YS, Kim YD, Hong SC, Sung JH, Jeong I, Lee K, Park WJ,
Bae HJ, Yoon SY, Lee C, Jeong KS, Bae S, Choi J, Kim HH
Conflict of interest
No potential conflict of interest relevant to this article was reported.
Funding
Not applicable.
Data availability
Not applicable.
Acknowledgments
Not applicable.
Supplementary materials
Not applicable.
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Environmental disease monitoring by regional Environmental Health
Centers in Korea: a narrative review
Fig. 1.
Current landscape of Environmental Health Centers in Korea.
Fig. 1.
Environmental disease monitoring by regional Environmental Health
Centers in Korea: a narrative review
Current status of regional Environmental Health Centers (as of
December 2024)
No.
Designated area
Host institution
Operating period
Project focus
1
Gangwon
Kangwon National University
Hospital
`20.01.01–`24.12.31
Establishing an environmental health
foundation for the Gangwon region
2
Chungnam
Soonchunhyang University Cheonan
Hospital
`21.01.04–`24.12.31
Establishing an environmental health
foundation for the Chungnam region
3
Seoul
Seoul National University College of
Medicine
`22.03.02–`26.12.31
Establishing an environmental health
foundation for the Seoul region
4
Incheon
Gachon University
`22.03.02–`26.12.31
Establishing an environmental health
foundation for the Incheon region
5
Daejeon
Daejeon University
`22.03.02–`26.12.31
Establishing an environmental health
foundation for the Daejeon region
6
Ulsan
Ulsan University Hospital
`22.03.02–`26.12.31
Establishing an environmental health
foundation for the Ulsan region
7
Busan
Dong-A University
`22.03.02–`26.12.31
Establishing an environmental health
foundation for the Busan region
8
Chungbuk
Chungbuk National University
Hospital
`22.03.02–`26.12.31
Establishing an environmental health
foundation for the Chungbuk region
9
Jeju
Jeju National University
`22.03.02–`26.12.31
Establishing an environmental health
foundation for the Jeju region
10
Jeonbuk
Jeonbuk National University
`23.04.01–`27.12.31
Establishing an environmental health
foundation for the Jeonbuk region
11
Gyeongnam
Gyeongsang National University
`23.04.01–`27.12.31
Establishing an environmental health
foundation for the Gyeongnam region
12
Gyeonggi
Ajou University
`24.03.20–`28.12.31
Establishing an environmental health
foundation for the Gyeonggi region
13
Gyeongbuk
Dongguk University (WISE
Campus)
`24.03.20–`28.12.31
Establishing an environmental health
foundation for the Gyeongbuk region
14
Jeonnam
Chonnam National University
Hospital, Hwasun
`24.03.20–`28.12.31
Establishing an environmental health
foundation for the Jeonnam region
Activities of regional Environmental Health Centers
Category
Detailed activities
Establishing preliminary monitoring
systems
- Investigation and monitoring of
environmental diseases and hazardous factors - Exposure
and health monitoring in environmentally vulnerable
areas - Chemical exposure assessment using biological
samples (e.g., blood or urine) by region
Strengthening regional environmental
health systems
- Supporting the development of
regional environmental health policies - Establishing
collaborative governance for environmental health -
Supporting health impact assessments and petition
handling - Building regional environmental health big
data - Conducting expert forums and related initiatives
to strengthen the regional environmental health foundation
Developing regional risk communication
systems
- Establishing and operating
environmental health information delivery systems -
Hosting environmental health camps for residents on local
environmental health issues - Conducting environmental
health communication activities (e.g., Environmental Health Open
Concerts, newsletters)
Collaboration in key research projects
of the Ministry of Environment
- Conducting health impact studies in
environmentally vulnerable areas - Participating in the
Ko-CHENS - Supporting investigations and assessments
related to humidifier disinfectants - Conducting
preventive initiatives for vulnerable groups with environmental
diseases - Health support projects in health impact
assessment areas
Other activities
- Supporting the Environmental Health
Integrated Information System - Conducting research,
investigations, or providing consultations, as stipulated in the
Environmental Health Act or as requested by the Minister of
Environment or local governments
Table 1.
Current status of regional Environmental Health Centers (as of
December 2024)
Table 2.
Activities of regional Environmental Health Centers
, Hwan-Cheol Kim3,*
