"Guardians of the Environment and Public Health: The Expanding Role of Nurses in Addressing the Health Impacts of Air, Water, and Soil Pollution"

Abstract: Environmental pollution has emerged as one of the most significant global public health challenges of the twenty-first century, contributing substantially to morbidity and mortality worldwide. Air, water, and soil pollution adversely affect human health across the lifespan, increasing the burden of respiratory diseases, cardiovascular disorders, cancers, reproductive health problems, and infectious diseases. Nurses, as the largest group of healthcare professionals and frontline providers of care, are uniquely positioned to address the health impacts of environmental pollution through clinical practice, community engagement, advocacy, education, research, and policy development. This review article explores the multifaceted role of nurses in addressing the health consequences of air, water, and soil pollution. It examines the sources and health effects of environmental pollutants, outlines nursing responsibilities in prevention and mitigation, and highlights the importance of environmental health literacy in nursing practice. The article emphasizes the need for strengthening nursing education, intersectoral collaboration, and policy advocacy to empower nurses as key agents in promoting environmental sustainability and protecting population health.