What is a commonly used method for assessing environmental health risks?

Risk assessment is a systematic process used to evaluate the potential health risks associated with exposure to environmental hazards. This method involves identifying the hazard, assessing the dose-response relationship, and characterizing the exposure. It provides a framework for understanding how environmental factors might adversely affect health, allowing health professionals and policymakers to make informed decisions about managing and mitigating those risks.

By utilizing risk assessment, practitioners can prioritize which environmental hazards need immediate attention based on the severity and likelihood of potential health impacts. This method also helps in developing regulations and guidelines aimed at protecting public health.

In contrast, while options like cost-benefit analysis and environmental impact statements play important roles in environmental decision-making, they do not specifically focus on the health risks associated with environmental exposure. Cost-benefit analysis evaluates the economic implications of decisions, and environmental impact statements provide comprehensive assessments of potential environmental effects of proposed actions. Community surveys can gather valuable insights into public perceptions and experiences but do not directly assess environmental health risks.