We need to critically assess the present quality of the marine ecosystem, especially the connection
between ecosystem change and threats to human health. In this article we review the current state
of indicators to link changes in marine organisms with eventual effects to human health, identify
research opportunities in the use of indicators of ocean and human health, and discuss how to
establish collaborations between national and international governmental and private sector
groups. We present a synthesis of the present state of understanding of the connection between
ocean health and human health, a discussion of areas where resources are required, and a discussion
of critical research needs and a template for future work in this field. To understand fully the
interactions between ocean health and human health, programs should be organized around a
“models-based” approach focusing on critical themes and attributes of marine environmental and
public health risks. Given the extent and complex nature of ocean and human health issues, a program
networking across geographic and disciplinary boundaries is essential. The overall goal of
this approach would be the early detection of potential marine-based contaminants, the protection
of marine ecosystems, the prevention of associated human illness, and by implication, the development
of products to enhance human well-being. The tight connection between research and monitoring
is essential to develop such an indicator-based effort. Key words: biologic effects,
biomarkers, contamination, human health, indicators, ocean health. Environ Health Perspect
110:839–845 (2002). [Online 17 July 2002]
http://ehpnet1.niehs.nih.gov/docs/2002/110p839-845knap/abstract.htm
