08: An Advocate for Flint

Dr. Mona Hanna-Attisha is a pediatrician and a public health advocate whose research helped expose the Flint water crisis. Dr. Mona is founder and director of the Michigan State University and the Hurley Children's Hospital Pediatric Public Health Initiative, an innovative and model public health program in Flint, Michigan. In this episode, Dr. Mona shares how she became an advocate for the people of Flint during the water crisis, and discusses the community-centered work that is creating a better future for families and children in Flint today. For more information and full episode transcription go to Contagious Conversations (www.cdcfoundation.org/conversations). Key Takeaways: [1:12] Dr. Mona discusses her background and career path. [3:13] A pediatrician's job is to be an advocate. [3:50] What Mona loves the most about being a pediatrician. [5:01] Becoming an advocate during the water crisis in Flint. [8:20] Why is lead so dangerous for children? [9:22] There is no safe level of lead. [11:22] Lead as an environmental injustice. [12:04] Alice Hamilton, a hero in the battle against industrial poisons. [13:40] Why the story of Hamilton resonated with Dr. Mona. [18:13] What the Eyes Don't See, Dr. Mona's book. [20:54] Dr. Mona talks about her work at Michigan State University. [21:28] The Flint water crisis: a crisis of trust. [25:11] The success of the nutrition prescription program. [26:25] All kids need great nutrition, early education resources and access to health. [27:03] How can we inspire people to play a larger role in improving the health of their community? [28:05] Community work in Flint and how this is making an impact. [30:15] How is the situation in Flint today? [32:15] Other health challenges Dr. Mona Hanna-Attisha wants to tackle in the near future. Mentioned in This Episode: CDC Foundation What the Eyes Don't See: A Story of Crisis, Resistance and Hope in an American City Answer this episode's question: How have you made an impact on your community? Email your answer to [email protected] and win some CDC Foundation merchandise.