Flint Water Crisis

Definition

The Flint Water Crisis is an ongoing public health crisis that started in 2014 when the drinking water source for the city of Flint, Michigan was changed to a cheaper source. This new water source led to lead contamination causing numerous health problems for Flint residents.

Related terms

Environmental Justice: The fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people regardless of race, color, national origin, or income with respect to environmental policies.

Public Health Infrastructure: Refers to all aspects involved in delivering public health services within a community such as workforce capacity and competency; information and data systems; communication; organizational capacity; resources necessary for service delivery.

Lead Poisoning: A medical condition caused by increased levels of the heavy metal lead in the body. Lead interferes with a variety of body processes and is toxic to many organs and tissues.