Liliana Cori

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This study focused on involving people with intellectual disabilities in a citizen science project in Sardinia, Italy, to help gather information about environmental risks in their region. Collaborating with local organizations, the project used easy-to-understand language and professional support to ensure these individuals could participate meaningfully. The findings highlight the importance of including diverse community members in health-related discussions, which can lead to better-informed decisions by policymakers. Who this helps: This benefits individuals with intellectual disabilities and their communities.

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This study looked at how exposure to certain harmful chemicals during pregnancy affects babies' growth in their first year. Researchers found that higher levels of hexachlorobenzene (HCB) increased the chances of slower growth, especially in boys, while PCB-180 was linked to faster growth in girls. Additionally, higher selenium levels were associated with less excessive growth. Understanding these effects is important because it can help prevent growth issues and related health problems in infants exposed to these chemicals. Who this helps: This helps expectant mothers and healthcare providers in monitoring exposure to harmful substances during pregnancy.

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This study looked at how doctors diagnose hereditary ataxias, a group of disorders that affect movement, in 147 patients over a span of more than 24 years. The researchers found a clear diagnosis in about 37% of the patients, with the most common conditions being Friedreich ataxia (36%), SCA2 (28%), and RFC1-related ataxia/CANVAS (11%). This research is important because it highlights the effectiveness of specific genetic tests, showing that while many cases can be diagnosed with initial testing, newer methods like next-generation sequencing can help identify the cause in about 20% of patients who remain undiagnosed after standard tests. Who this helps: Patients with hereditary ataxias and their doctors benefit from improved diagnosis methods.

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This study looked at why some people in Italy were hesitant to get the COVID-19 vaccine at the start of the vaccination campaign. Among nearly 37,000 surveyed adults, about 6.7% were completely against the vaccine, while 12.1% were unsure, and 81.2% were willing to get vaccinated. The research found that factors like being female, having lower education, and distrust in institutions made people more hesitant, while being a student or retired, and having higher trust in science made them more likely to accept the vaccine. Who this helps: This information helps public health officials and communicators tailor their messages to encourage more people to get vaccinated.

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This research paper looked at how communication plays a vital role in the one health approach, which connects human health, animal health, and the environment. It found that effective communication is essential for teamwork among different fields, helping to tackle health and environmental threats. This matters because clearer communication can lead to better decision-making and safer ecosystems. Who this helps: This benefits patients, healthcare providers, and environmental policymakers.

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The study looked at how to improve communication about environmental risks in a citizen science project called the One Health Citizen Science Project (OHCS). Researchers created materials like information sheets about pollution sites and a guide on how to communicate effectively about risks. They found that while most experts (46 people, primarily educated women) recognize the need to mitigate risks, over two-thirds had not participated in citizen science projects, highlighting a gap in involvement despite a belief in the effectiveness of immediate preventative measures. Who this helps: This benefits patients, local communities, and environmental organizations.

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This study looked at how fear and stress during the COVID-19 pandemic affected sleep problems in people from Italy. Out of over 41,000 participants, 8.1% reported trouble sleeping, and this was more common among women, those in jobs at risk of infection, and the unemployed. The research found that fear about COVID-19 directly caused sleep issues, with nearly half of that effect coming from increased stress. Who this helps: This benefits patients, particularly those experiencing sleep disorders due to stress and fear related to the pandemic.

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This study focused on why some adults in Italy were hesitant to get the COVID-19 vaccine. Out of nearly 37,000 unvaccinated respondents, 6.7% were hesitant about getting vaccinated, with women and those aged 40-59 showing the most hesitation. Interestingly, individuals with less education had a higher rate of hesitancy, and those who were not afraid of getting COVID-19 were also more likely to hesitate about vaccination. Who this helps: This information is valuable for public health officials and educators aiming to increase vaccination rates.

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This study looked at health problems caused by air pollution in the Venafro Valley in southern Italy, where residents are exposed to emissions from local factories and heavy traffic. Researchers found that people living in the most polluted areas had higher rates of death and illness related to heart and blood vessel diseases, with men facing a 37% higher risk and women a 27% higher risk for these conditions. This is important because it highlights the serious health risks linked to industrial pollution, suggesting a need for better environmental protections. Who this helps: This helps residents living in polluted areas, as well as policymakers focused on improving air quality.

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This study looked at how many people in Italy got tested for COVID-19 during the first and second waves of the pandemic. Out of over 105,000 participants, about 52.8% got a nose swab test and 13.2% tested positive, while more than 40% had a blood test with 11.9% showing they had COVID-19. Importantly, many people who tested positive through blood tests had not been tested with the nose swab, suggesting that a lot of infections were missed and could spread further in the community. Who this helps: This benefits public health officials and researchers tracking virus spread and vaccination efforts.

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This study looked at how many people in Italy got the flu vaccine during the 2020-2021 flu season compared to the previous season. Out of nearly 42,000 respondents, only 20.1% received the vaccine that season, while 54.8% didn't get vaccinated at all in either season. The research found that people with higher education levels were more likely to get vaccinated, while those in socio-economically deprived situations were less likely to receive the vaccine. Who this helps: This information will help public health officials better target vaccination campaigns to increase flu shot uptake, especially among vulnerable communities.

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This study looked at how sex and gender affect the chances of getting infected with the virus that causes COVID-19, using data from over 198,000 people in Italy. The results showed that women had a 25% lower chance of testing positive for the virus and a 54% lower chance of having a severe infection compared to men. Additionally, older women who were on hormonal therapy had a 46% lower chance of testing positive than those who were not, but this effect was not seen in younger women. Who this helps: This helps patients, especially older women considering hormonal therapy.

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This research reviewed 25 studies on how virtual reality (VR) can help patients with Anorexia Nervosa (AN) by addressing their distorted body image. It found that VR technology has improved significantly over the last 20 years, becoming more accessible and effective, especially for treating adolescents with AN. The study proposes using VR combined with biofeedback techniques to better assess treatment outcomes. Who this helps: This benefits patients with Anorexia Nervosa and their doctors.

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This study looked at how people in the Mt. Amiata area of Italy feel about the health risks from pollutants produced by geothermal plants. Researchers surveyed 2,029 residents and found that 64% believed the environmental conditions were acceptable, while 32% thought they were serious but fixable, and 4% saw them as serious and unchangeable. Women, younger people, and those with higher education were more likely to feel at risk, especially if they noticed bad smells nearby. Understanding these perceptions can help further research on how pollution impacts health. Who this helps: This helps residents of geothermal areas and public health officials.

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The study looked at how afraid people were of getting COVID-19 and how that fear affected their families during the first wave of the pandemic in Italy. Out of over 207,000 participants, most were women, and many reported a greater fear for their family members than for themselves. Women generally had higher fear levels, and fear decreased with better education and self-perceived health; for example, 40.8% of flu-vaccinated individuals were afraid for themselves, compared to 34.2% of those not vaccinated. Who this helps: This helps public health officials and healthcare providers understand how fear impacts different groups, which can improve communication and support for patients.

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This study looked at how pregnant women in polluted areas of Southern Italy perceive the risks of environmental pollution. Researchers surveyed 611 mothers and found that mothers in the heavily polluted Milazzo area had the highest risk perception score of 0.64, while those in Crotone had a lower score of 0.5. Understanding these perceptions is important as it can help in developing strategies to encourage healthier lifestyles, which can prevent health problems while waiting for pollution cleanup efforts. Who this helps: This helps pregnant women living in polluted areas and healthcare providers working with them.

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This research examined how people perceive the risks associated with COVID-19 and how that understanding affects their behavior. The study found that many individuals underestimated the virus's dangers, with about 30% believing they were not at risk at all, even in high transmission areas. This is important because accurate risk perception can influence people's decisions to follow health guidelines, which impacts the overall control of the pandemic. Who this helps: This helps patients and the general public by improving awareness of the virus and encouraging safer practices.

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This study examined how people's views on air pollution, particularly particulate matter, relate to actual pollution levels. Researchers looked at 38 studies from various countries, finding that in about 20 of them, there was a clear link between how much people thought air pollution was a risk and the actual pollution they experienced. Understanding this connection is important because it can help shape public health policies and improve awareness about air quality risks. Who this helps: This helps patients, especially those with respiratory issues, and public health officials.

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This study focused on the health risks faced by people living in three heavily polluted areas in southern Italy. Researchers investigated how exposure to harmful chemicals might be linked to early signs of health issues: liver disease in Priolo, thyroid problems in Milazzo-Valle del Mela, and heart and kidney issues in Crotone. Around 1,300 people will participate, providing samples and health information to help understand these connections better, with findings aimed at informing policy and public health. Who this helps: This benefits patients living in contaminated areas, doctors treating them, and public health officials.

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Researchers reviewed 19 studies from New Zealand, Iceland, and Italy examining whether people living near geothermal power plants that produce heat and electricity suffer health problems from the gases these plants release, particularly hydrogen sulfide. They found that exposure to low levels of hydrogen sulfide increases respiratory problems, asthma, lung cancer, and respiratory disease deaths, while high-level exposure paradoxically shows lower cancer rates but more hospitalizations for breathing and heart problems. The evidence suggests geothermal emissions do harm human health, but the research has major weaknesses—most studies looked at entire communities rather than tracking individuals—so better monitoring systems and stricter air quality controls around these plants are needed to protect public health.

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Researchers studied the health effects of an oil treatment plant in Val D'Agri, Italy, from 2015 to 2017, involving local communities and analysis from various experts. They found that people living near the plant experienced health and environmental issues due to pollution, including problems with respiratory function and increased hospital visits and mortality rates. These findings highlight the need for better prevention strategies to protect communities from harmful pollutants and promote fairness regarding environmental health. Who this helps: This helps local residents and public health officials.

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This research looked at how effectively communicating about environmental health risks can improve understanding and action among the community. The project, led by the Italian National Research Council, is studying health impacts from pollutants and involves three ongoing studies that monitor human health and development. Clear communication of research findings is essential; it can help guide policy decisions and raise public awareness, ultimately helping to manage health risks better. Who this helps: This benefits patients, policymakers, and local communities affected by environmental hazards.

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In Tuscany, Italy, health officials investigated a rise in leukemia deaths after local doctors noticed more cases than usual in their patients. The study lasted over two years and involved different health organizations, focusing on various factors like local environmental issues and patients' residential histories. The findings emphasized the importance of community involvement in the research process, helping to bridge the gap between health authorities and residents and ensuring that people had access to important information. Who this helps: This helps local communities and patients by addressing health concerns and improving communication about cancer risks.

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This study looked at how air pollution from a coal power plant in Italy affected the health of nearby residents over a period of time. Researchers found that people living close to the plant faced higher risks of dying and being hospitalized due to natural causes, heart diseases, respiratory issues, and cancers, with men having a 59% higher risk of lung cancer specifically. This matters because it highlights the severe health impacts of air pollution and stresses the need for preventative measures to protect the community. Who this helps: This helps patients and residents living near coal power plants.

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The study looked at whether children can understand and express how much they would be willing to pay to reduce their risk of asthma attacks, comparing their responses to those of their parents. Researchers found that children can grasp these concepts, and their ability improves as they get older; on average, parents are willing to spend twice as much on their child's health as the children would spend for themselves. This matters because it shows that including children's opinions in health decisions can lead to better understanding of their needs and preferences. Who this helps: This helps patients, especially children with asthma, and their parents in making informed health decisions.

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This research focused on eleven projects that work on linking environmental factors to health through a collaboration called the KTE LIFE EnvHealth Network. The projects aim to share important knowledge and tools to help improve the environment and public health in the European Union. By connecting different teams and sharing successful strategies, the network wants to boost the effectiveness of their work to protect communities better. Who this helps: This benefits patients and communities affected by environmental health issues.

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This study looked at how noise affects students' feelings and performance in schools across Italy. Researchers surveyed 521 students aged 11-18 in various classrooms and found that those in noisier areas reported higher annoyance levels; specifically, younger students in industrial locations showed more annoyance. Better classroom sound quality led to lower annoyance, meaning noise plays a big role in how well students learn and feel in school. Who this helps: This helps students and educators by highlighting the importance of reducing noise in school environments.

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This study looked at the health impacts of a new oil treatment plant in the Val d'Agri area of Southern Italy. Researchers gathered data on the environment and health of local residents, ultimately creating public health recommendations based on their findings. This matters because it helps ensure that future projects consider both health and environmental effects, promoting safer and healthier communities. Who this helps: This helps local residents and public health officials.

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This research looked at how different media reported on health assessments in Val d'Agri, Southern Italy, from September 2017 to January 2018. Researchers analyzed 138 articles and found that reports with an “alarmist tone” often included politicians' views, while more balanced reporting was associated with independent scientific sources. This is important because it shows how media framing can influence public perception and understanding of health issues, affecting community responses to risks. Who this helps: This benefits patients and community members who rely on accurate information about health risks in their area.

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This study looked at how different sectors of government and organizations in six European Union countries work together to promote health through physical activity policies. The researchers found that while collaboration varied by country, successful cooperation involved clear communication, shared goals, and solid planning, which together helped improve health policies. For instance, involving citizens and allowing local stakeholder input was essential for effective policymaking. Who this helps: This benefits policymakers, public health officials, and community organizations aimed at enhancing public health.

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This study looked at how people in four polluted areas of Italy understand environmental risks and access information about pollution, focusing on arsenic. Researchers surveyed 282 residents and found that those in industrial areas felt more aware of pollution hazards and trusted NGOs more than government sources, but they also noted a lack of information available to them. The study revealed that higher awareness of pollution was linked to lower consumption of local fish, suggesting that people's perceptions of risk influence their food choices. Who this helps: This benefits local residents living in polluted areas by providing insights that can improve communication and risk management strategies.

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This study looked at how environmental factors affect children's health in Latin America, where chronic diseases are on the rise. It found that children face many health risks from pollution, contaminated water, and toxic chemicals, with both old and new dangers impacting their well-being. Specifically, issues like poor indoor air quality, urban air pollution, and exposure to harmful substances like lead and pesticides are significant concerns that vary by region. These findings highlight the urgent need for better strategies to protect children's health from environmental threats. Who this helps: This helps children in Latin America by aiming to improve their health and reduce the risks from harmful environmental factors.

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Researchers studied how exposure to arsenic affects heart health. They found that people exposed to high levels of arsenic have a higher risk of heart disease and related deaths, and they also showed signs of high blood pressure and diabetes. Understanding these links is important because it can help protect public health and prevent heart-related issues. Who this helps: This helps patients and healthcare providers by highlighting the risks of arsenic exposure.

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This study looked at the levels of harmful chemicals in the blood, blood serum, and breast milk of residents in the Caserta and Naples areas of Campania, Italy. Researchers found concerning levels of various pollutants, including toxic substances like dioxins and heavy metals; for instance, lead levels in blood ranged from about 10 to 56 micrograms per liter, while dioxin-like PCBs reached up to 647 nanograms per gram of fat in blood samples. These findings are important because they highlight potential health risks to people living in polluted environments, particularly in certain towns which may need health-focused interventions. Who this helps: This information benefits local residents and health officials looking to address environmental health issues.

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This study looked at two different surgical techniques for total knee replacement to see which one led to less pain and faster recovery. The researchers compared a new method that spares the quadriceps muscle with a traditional approach. They found that while both techniques showed significant improvement in knee function over time, the quadriceps-sparing method resulted in slightly less pain on the first day after surgery and during activities by day three. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing total knee replacement by providing options that may lead to less pain immediately after surgery.

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This research paper looks at how health is considered in studies that assess the environmental impact of projects in Italy. The authors found that while these studies aim to protect health, they often overlook important health factors, with many health assessments not formally included in decision-making. For instance, the integration of Health Impact Assessments (HIAs) into Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) is limited, leading to a lack of effective health protection measures. This matters because improving how health is considered in these environmental assessments can lead to better health outcomes for communities. Who this helps: Patients and communities affected by environmental decisions.

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This study looked at the effects of arsenic pollution in drinking water on people living in specific regions of Italy. Researchers found that 50.6% of participants had arsenic levels in their urine that exceeded safe limits, with higher concentrations seen in areas like Gela and Taranto. The findings highlight the need for better prevention measures to protect communities from arsenic exposure. Who this helps: This helps patients living in arsenic-affected areas, public health officials, and doctors.

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This research looks at how arsenic exposure can harm our cells and lead to various health problems like cancer and heart disease. Over 100 million people are affected by arsenic in their drinking water, which makes understanding these effects crucial. The study highlights the importance of identifying specific genes that make some people more vulnerable to arsenic-related diseases, which could help improve early detection and prevention strategies. Who this helps: Patients exposed to arsenic and healthcare providers aiming to prevent related health issues.

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The study examined the polluted industrial areas of Gela and Priolo in Italy, evaluating the financial benefits of cleaning up the toxic sites. Researchers estimated that proper clean-up could prevent about 47 premature deaths, 281 cancer cases, and 2,702 non-cancer hospital admissions each year. The total monetary benefit from cleaning these areas could reach approximately €10.2 billion, far exceeding the €902 million already allocated for clean-up, indicating that investing more in these efforts would be worthwhile. Who this helps: This helps local residents and communities affected by pollution.

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This research focused on the environmental impacts of pollution in Gela and surrounding areas in Sicily, highlighting the significant health problems faced by local residents. The study found that Gela has higher rates of illnesses, including lung cancer, compared to nearby regions, with specific records showing that overall death rates are higher, especially for tumors, among both men and women. Addressing these health concerns is crucial for developing better public health strategies and environmental protections to safeguard the community. Who this helps: This helps local residents and health officials by providing essential data for improving public health and environmental safety in Gela.