Dr. Catherine Zeman's presentation delves into the intricate relationship between environmental factors and health outcomes, particularly focusing on disparities across human communities. By analyzing trends in U.S. lifespan and healthcare expenditures, Dr. Zeman highlights the divergent pathways experienced by different racial/ethnic groups. She underscores the impact of neighborhood characteristics, such as income levels and educational attainment, on health outcomes, emphasizing the increased risk of chronic diseases and limited access to healthcare services in disadvantaged areas. Chronic inflammation emerges as a critical factor linking environmental pollutants to various diseases, including cardiovascular conditions and cancer. The presentation also addresses lifestyle factors, such as diet and exercise, and their implications for health disparities. To address these issues, Dr. Zeman advocates for cutting edge systems-oriented research, informed action, political accountability, the use of advanced computer intelligence and community engagement, stressing the importance of inclusive, effective solutions for achieving environmental and health equity.

Dr. Catherine Zeman is a Professor in the Department of Health Sciences at James Madison University where she teaches environmental health.  In the past, she has taught epidemiology, anatomy, and physiology for health sciences, toxicology, human diseases, environmental and occupational health regulations/policy, and complementary, alternative, and integrative health. Dr. Zeman’s research has focused on the acute and chronic hematopoietic and immunotoxicological impacts of nitrate, children’s environmental health and learning, select pesticides and the development of methodologies for exposure assessment in epidemiological research.