Human health may not be the first topic that comes to mind when thinking about agricultural sciences. But human health is central to much that we pursue in both agriculture and science.
Recent headlines suggest that OSU’s College of Agricultural Sciences is a leader in many aspects of human health research. In June, when Congress deliberated a new toxic substances control act, they drew on research by the College of Ag Science’s environmental chemist Kim Anderson. When the USDA announced sweeping changes to federal food safety regulations, the College was chosen to lead the training, education, and outreach for the western states.
In this issue of Oregon’s Agricultural Progress, we explore agricultural research that helps keep us healthy. We discover cancer-fighting compounds in vegetables such as the romanesco on our cover. We visit cancer researchers and toxicologists at the forefront of the fight against human disease. And we consider the positive benefits of community engagement, companionship with pets, and knowing where to get answers when you need expert advice.
From the food we eat to the air we breathe, AgSci researchers are watching out for our health and well-being.