Abstract
Currently, there is a highly politicized debate on the comparative risks of naturally occurring and synthetic chemicals. Since humans are often exposed to complex mixtures of both classes of chemicals, the real-world value of this debate is unclear. However, in any such comparison, it is important to realize that some naturally occurring substances-such as lead or tobacco-have been so altered or disturbed by human activity that they are best considered as products of human activity, or anthropogenic. Reasons for concern over synthetic and anthropogenic chemicals include: persistence and propensity for long-term storage in biota and the environment; structural similarity to endogenous biomolecules; and additivity to natural hazards.
| Original language | English (US) |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 835-841 |
| Number of pages | 7 |
| Journal | Toxicology Letters |
| Volume | 82-83 |
| Issue number | C |
| DOIs | |
| State | Published - Dec 1995 |
| Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- Carcinogens
- Dioxins
- Metals
- PCBs
- Risk assessment
- Synthetic chemicals
- Xenoestrogens
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Toxicology