In this keynote address, Dr. Vatovec shares an overview of Climate Change and Cancer: Unraveling Connections between Health, Healthcare, and the Health of the Planet. Climate change intersects with cancer in several ways. Extreme weather events like the recent flooding seen across Vermont increase environmental exposure to carcinogens, and disrupt access to cancer care. At the same time, the large carbon footprint of the healthcare system compels us to rethink the way we provide care in a move toward carbon-neutrality. In this presentation, we consider the bi-directional connections between cancer and climate in order to identify pathways forward that are better for both people and the planet.  

Dr. Vatovec discusses her research on pharmaceuticals in Lake Champlain and their effect on ecosystem health.

Dr. Vatovec joined Thomas Anderson (Commissioner, Vermont Department of Public Safety) and Roger Marcoux (Sheriff of Lamoille County and coordinator of the state’s year-round dropbox program) to discuss the importance of appropriate disposal of pharmaceuticals for both public health and to protect the health of the environment.

Dr. Vatovec discusses the health benefits of spending time in nature, especially as it relates to breast cancer patients.