Environmental Health Data

The World Health Organization estimates that 13% of the overall disease burden in the United States is due to environmental factors. In Massachusetts, we know that environmental exposures and health outcomes can occur at higher rates in low income areas and communities of color than in the statewide population in general. Collecting and using environmental health data can be used to identify health disparities among Massachusetts residents and help community partners and others make informed decisions on community health needs and identify opportunities for preventive actions to protect the public’s health.

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health reduces and prevents environmentally-related risks by tracking and evaluating potential exposure pathways and disease, supporting policies and programs to reduce exposure to environmental hazards, and providing communities with healthier environments. The data provided below can be used to learn about environmental health in your community.