Why do many people report knee problems and backaches? And why do many crave sweet and fatty foods? A new exhibit explores these and other questions about human health.
Evolution & Health, presented through Jan. 13, 2013 at the Museum of Natural History, explores how the ways in which humans evolved has promoted survival, but not always health. Featuring interactive components and videos, the exhibit explores how evolutionary factors contribute to contemporary health issues including low back pain, skin cancer, lactose intolerance and obesity.
The museum is the first venue for the exhibit, scheduled to travel nationally. Exhibit developers say audience research will help them refine the exhibition. Additional exhibit components are to be added in fall.
Evolution & Health was developed by the New York Hall of Science and was made possible by a Science Education Partnership grant from the National Center for Research Resources, a component of the National Institutes of Health.
Museum hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon-5 p.m. Sunday. The exhibit is presented in the fourth floor gallery.
