Using Science for Policies that Protect Children

P.J. van den Hazel
Gelderland Midden Public Health Services
The Netherlands

Citation: van den Hazel, P.J. (2005). "Using Science for Policies that Protect Children." Children, Youth and Environments 15 (1): 278-286. Retrieved [date] from http://www.colorado.edu/journals/cye/

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Abstract

The results from scientific studies can and should be used to make appropriate policies. However, in children’s environmental health, no systematic approach has been used to provide policy recommendations. The complexity of establishing causal relations between the environment and children’s health has hindered the development of policy recommendations. It is argued that there is a need for knowledge, for policies, for information and public participation, and for action. The Policy Interpretation Network on Children’s Health and Environment (PINCHE) collects and discusses scientific results. Furthermore, it provides an analysis on a range of topics, such as childhood cancer, asthma and allergies, persistent chemicals, noise, passive smoking. Some possible core policies are presented as part of an integral approach to develop policies on children’s environmental health.

Keywords: children, health, environment, policy, science-policy interface