By Bae Ji-sook
Staff Reporter
Countries should adopt a more systematic approach and strengthen coordination to prevent environment-related diseases, especially among children, delegates at an international conference in Busan were told Wednesday.
Wrapping up the World Health Organization (WHO) International Conference on Children's Health and the Environment, more than 500 health experts, scientists and civic group members from across the world called for joint action to develop countermeasures against factors such as asbestos, hazardous waste and climate change.
They shared information on global trends in environment-related diseases, research methods and translating data into feasible policy.
Through the Busan Pledge, participants heard about pregnant women and emphasis on health from the pre-natal stage.
Park Mee-ja, an official from the Ministry of Environment, said the conference helped draw greater public attention to the relationship between the environment and health.
``It was the largest event held in Korea on the subject. Citizens became aware that the environment can be more than just an abstract issue and something related directly to our lives,'' she said.
``Also, it drew attention to some of the most sensitive issues humans are facing at the moment, such as asbestos and nanoparticles. Simply raising issues is a huge step forward,'' she added.
Jenny Pronczuk of WHO said the meeting forged a network of health experts around the world who share common interests.
Research results from 250 new studies were reported.
Pronczuk said the emergence of effective tools to carry out what was discussed at the convention will be its most important legacy.
Though many of the harmful materials discussed are key to industries, Pronczuk stressed the need for materials to be tested and regulated.
She added that governments should carefully analyze data and develop measures accordingly.