UNC-Chapel Hill experts available to discuss summer health and safety
June 21 marks the first day of summer. UNC-Chapel Hill experts are available for interviews this summer to share information on common health and injury risks, as well as practical tips on preventing illness and injury during the warmer months.
Today, June 21, marks the first day of summer. UNC-Chapel Hill experts are available for interviews this summer to share information on common health and injury risks, as well as practical tips on preventing illness and injury during the warmer months.
Heat-related illnesses are preventable, yet according to the CDC, about 600 people in the U.S. die from heat-related illnesses every year. Older adults, children and people with chronic illnesses are most at risk. Dr. Katie Davenport is available to discuss heat-related illness, how it happens and how to stay safe while enjoying the summer.
Hurricane season on the Atlantic Coast occurs June through November. Hurricanes can cause flooding and destructive winds, thus elevating the risk of injury or property damage. Rick Luettich and Chip Konrad are available to provide insight on storm surge and flooding, water quality, beach erosion and other storm-related issues. Emergency management instructor Kathryn Van Tol can also discuss the role of local governments during natural disasters, including how they should prepare for evacuations and debris removal and federal regulations like FEMA contract requirements.
Fireworks accidents often occur during summer holiday celebrations. Dr. Felicia Williams from the North Carolina Jaycee Burn Center is available to discuss firework burns and how to prevent them.
Sun safety is especially important during the summer when spending time outside. Most skin cancers are caused by damage to skin cells from too much exposure to ultraviolet light. Dr. Shweta Shukla is available to discuss the causes of skin cancer, how to reduce your risk and ways to recognize early signs of skin cancer.
Swimming is a great way to socialize and exercise this summer. Carolina expert Claudio Battaglini, a Professor of Exercise and Sport Science at UNC, is available to give tips on staying safe while swimming. Prior to his current work in exercise oncology research, he was an international-level endurance sports coach, with some of his athletes achieving World Champion status, Pan-American Champion status, and Olympic Game appearances.
Ticks are most active during the warmer months of the year. Ticks can spread various tick-borne illnesses, including alpha gal syndrome, an illness that can cause red meat allergies. Dr. Ross Boyce, Dr. Scott Commins and Dr. Onyinye I. Iweala are available to discuss how to prevent tick bites among humans and pets, as well as symptoms of tick-borne illnesses
If you are interested in speaking with an expert, please email mediarelations@unc.edu with the topics you’d like to cover or the experts you’d like to interview.
