Environmental Influences on Health & Disease

Exploring External Factors in Disease & Injury

One-fourth of all diseases – and most injuries – are caused by environmental factors. Many more are influenced by environment.

Diet, drugs, toxins and physical activity greatly influence risk and progress of conditions like:

  • Arthritis
  • Brain function
  • Cancer
  • Diabetes
  • Heart disease
  • Lung disease
  • Obesity
  • Orthopedic injuries

At Sanford Research, we study how environmental factors influence cellular function and human disease. We also study how physical activity and nutrition improve health and well-being.

We work to understand these processes from conception to adulthood.

The Environmental Influences on Health and Disease group is home to:

Sanford Health News

Classes & Events

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    PROMISE Summer Programs

    Tue 07/22/25 8:30 AM - Fri 07/25/25 3:00 PM
    Sanford Research Center

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    PROMISE Summer Programs

    Mon 08/04/25 8:30 AM - Mon 08/04/25 3:00 PM
    Minnesota West Community & Technical College - Luverne Center