Document Type

Article

Publication Date

7-2013

Keywords

Fish consumption, bioaccumulative chemicals, Aquatic environments

Abstract

When discussing the benefits of fish consumption, we typically focus on the health benefits such as Omega‐3 fatty acids and their implications for heart health. However, nonhealth related benefits of fish consumption are important to consider. With Washington State's broad coastline, fish consumption is abundant and plays an integral role in the traditions of the Native Americans in the state. Fish and shellfish are an important part of the daily diet. There is also spiritual significance with traditions that include the “First Salmon Ceremony,” where the first salmon of the year is honored to ensure that its spirit is released and to promote the return of the salmon the following year. With the increasing threat of bioaccumulative chemicals in aquatic environments, the decision that many have to make between their health and cultural traditions is becoming increasingly difficult. Contaminated site cleanup levels in Washington State can be based on the fish consumption of the general population. These levels depend on the environmental media (e.g., water or sediment). In the case of Native Americans, the suggested consumption rates are much lower than amounts they typically consume.

Publication Title

Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management

Volume

9

Issue

3

First Page

539

Last Page

540

DOI

https://doi.org/10.1002/ieam.1436

Required Publisher's Statement

© 2017 Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry

https://doi.org/10.1002/ieam.1436

Subjects - Topical (LCSH)

Fish as food--Northwest, Pacific; Water quality--Northwest, Pacific; Indians of North America--Health and hygiene--Northwest, Pacific; Indians of North America--Food--Northwest, Pacific

Geographic Coverage

Northwest, Pacific

Genre/Form

articles

Type

Text

Language

English

Format

application/pdf

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