Search Site close Close
so ill logo
News

New School of Medicine podcast explores impact of environment on our health

Published Date:

Medical students at SIU School of Medicine in collaboration with WSIU Public Broadcasting have created ‘So ILL,’ a new podcast that explores the relationship between the environment and our health. 

Shortly after their arrival on the Carbondale campus, new medical students are taught about the social determinants of health: how the factors a patient experiences outside the doctor’s office – in their home environment, access to transportation and fresh food, personal safety, etc. – can influence their health. Understanding these daily conditions can lead to better treatments and outcomes for the patient.

The podcasts will take a similar holistic approach, spotlighting ways the environment can affect our health, especially within rural communities, and supply listeners with simple steps that they can take to make a positive change.

Each episode features students having conversations with an expert in their field of study, discussing topics such as microplastics, health care waste, green burials and more. The collective goal is to raise awareness, learn ways to improve upon the impact we have on our environment, and share the information with listeners, patients, members of the community and institutions. 

Listen at: 1168684531/so-i-l-l" previewremoved="true">https://www.npr.org/podcasts/1168684531/so-i-l-l

More from SIU News

Ginger Meyer and Allison Jackson

Ginger Meyer honored for leadership in trauma recovery

Ginger Meyer has spent more than twenty years helping children and families in southern Illinois heal from trauma, and her steady leadership recently earned national recognition from the Academy on Violence and Abuse. As clinical director of SIU School of Medicine’s Children’s Medical and Mental Health Resource Network, she has expanded access to trauma-informed care across rural communities, supported partners who serve children affected by abuse and violence, and trained hundreds of graduate students in evidence-based treatment. Her service with AVA strengthened national efforts to integrate trauma-informed practices into health care, and colleagues praise her ability to unite teams, guide change and keep families at the center of the work. Through her leadership, more children across central and southern Illinois can find safety, support and hope close to home.
Moy Clinic Building in winter

AFSCME, SIU School of Medicine ink 3-year agreement

SIU School of Medicine and AFSCME Local 370 have finalized and ratified a new collective bargaining agreement, effective July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2028. The union represents more than 800 school employees across its campuses.
Dr. Johnson with cleft patient

The doctors behind the smiles

When a child is born with a cleft lip or palate, SIU Medicine surrounds families with a team devoted to expert care and compassion, from a baby’s first breath to a teen’s final surgery. Our specialists walk alongside families, providing clarity, confidence and lifelong support every step of the way.