Health on the Rocks: Geohealth in Kentucky

Authors

Rachel L. Washburn, University of KentuckyFollow

Researcher ORCID Identifier

0000-0002-7489-5092

Files

Abstract

Geohealth bridges the earth and life sciences, revealing how Kentucky’s unique geology directly shapes public health risks, clinical outcomes, and opportunities for innovation. This factsheet highlights the critical intersections between geologic processes and human health across the Commonwealth—from landslides, floods, and tornadoes to radon, mine drainage, and microbial contamination. It outlines how natural and anthropogenic forces influence respiratory illness, cancer, trauma, and infectious disease, and how bedrock and weather extremes define local exposure pathways. Beyond risk, it also showcases Kentucky’s leadership in developing geoscience-informed health solutions: bioremediation, microbial drug discovery, and geologic-health monitoring networks that strengthen preparedness and resilience. Understanding the health of our landscapes is no longer optional—it’s essential to safeguarding the health of our communities.

Publication Date

9-11-2025

Series

14

Issue Number

2

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

https://doi.org/10.13023/KGS.14.SP.2.2025

Spatial Coverage

Kentucky

Language

English

Repository Citation

Washburn, R.L., 2025, Health on the Rocks: Geohealth in Kentucky: Kentucky Geological Survey, ser. 14, Special Publication 2, 4 p.