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Study reveals how genetics and environment shape disease risk
By Viv Williams at Atlanta News First (WANF CBS) - News
· June 25, 2026
· 2 min read
(Aging Untold) — People who think family history makes disease inevitable may still be able to reduce their risk, according to a Penn State study examining how genetics and environmental factors influence health. The research looked at how genes and environmental factors — including air pollution...
Key takeaway He said increased levels of nitrogen dioxide can affect metabolism — how the body changes food into energy — and can influence risk for type 2 diabetes and high cholesterol.
Why this matters in The Atlanta
In Atlanta , where air quality can be a concern due to the city's location in a valley and its high population density, the findings of this Penn State study take on particular relevance. The study's emphasis on the impact of air pollution on disease risk is a reminder that local efforts to reduce pollution can have a direct impact on residents' health. By understanding the role of environmental factors in shaping disease risk, Atlantans can take steps to mitigate their exposure to harmful pollutants like particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide. This can involve checking local air quality conditions on websites like AirNow.gov, which allows users to enter their ZIP code and get current pollution levels. Additionally, city initiatives to promote green spaces, reduce traffic congestion, and encourage healthy living habits can all contribute to a healthier environment and reduced disease risk for Atlanta residents.
About this story
Original reporting by Atlanta News First (WANF CBS) - News . The Atlanta surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
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Category: local ·
Published: June 25, 2026 ·
Source: Atlanta News First (WANF CBS) - News ·
Reading time: 2 min
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What is this story about? (Aging Untold) — People who think family history makes disease inevitable may still be able to reduce their risk, according to a Penn State study examining how genetics and environmental factors influence health. The research looked at how genes and environmental factors — including air pollution...
When was this published? This article was first published on June 25, 2026 by Atlanta News First (WANF CBS) - News and curated for The Atlanta readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Viv Williams at Atlanta News First (WANF CBS) - News. To learn more about how The Atlanta selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
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