Newswise — WASHINGTON (Jan. 22, 2025)--The California fires and massive destruction of homes in the LA region have exacerbated an already serious housing crisis. say that sharp rent increases have led to many families who are homeless or living in unstable or unsafe housing.
Lack of housing or unsafe temporary housing may make it harder for people to access medical care or may lead to worsening health conditions, says , Director of the at the George Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health.
For example, Hamilton says exposure to mold in a rental unit could trigger or exacerbate asthma. Homelessness can put people, including children, at risk of a wide variety of serious health problems.
The Center works to embed lawyers in clinics and health care systems in order to help resolve housing and other environmental threats that can lead to poor health. Research shows that 60% of a person’s health is determined by factors such as housing and personal stability.
To interview Hamilton, please contact Kathy Fackelmann, [email protected] or Katelyn Deckelbaum, [email protected]