 |
Fewer than half of the chemicals most commonly used in commerce have been tested to determine exposure levels at which they are acutely toxic. Moreover, testing rarely assesses neurobehavioral functions; the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that a test for toxic effects on the developing brain costs about $150,000.
Of the 201 industrial chemicals known to cause toxic effects on the human brain, almost half are produced in high volumes. Several others are on the priority list as major hazards from toxic waste.
Metals
and inorganic compounds Organic solvents |
Other
organic substances |
Pesticides |
* banned by the EPA ** banned for some uses by the EPA photos: smokestacks and manicure, Getty Images; airplane, Purestock/Getty Images |
||
|
To contact us with suggestions, comments, and questions, please e-mail: review@hsph.harvard.edu
Copyright 2007, President and Fellows of Harvard College