Toxic Substances in the Environment Aim: How do toxic substances in our environment affect our health? Toxic Substances in the Environment

Types of Chemical Hazards Chemical hazards can cause cancer, birth defects, and improper functioning of the human body systems

Carcinogens Chemicals that cause cancer Example: Tobacco Smoke

Carcinogens Found in: Burning tobacco products Effects: Lung cancer and other Respiratory sicknesses

Chemical Mutagens Substances that cause genetic mutations in our DNA Example: Benzene

Chemical Mutagens Found in: Secondhand smoke, gasoline, air pollution Effects: cause cancer and lowers white blood cell count

Teratogens Cause harm to embryo and fetuses Example: Alcohol

Teratogens Found in: Alcoholic Beverages Effects: Birth defects in human development

Neurotoxins Chemicals that affect nervous system Example: Methylmercury Neurotoxins

Neurotoxins Found in: Contaminated fish tissue Effects: Speech, hearing, vision, etc

Allergen Substances that overactivate the immune system when a response is not necessary Example: Animal skin and saliva proteins

Allergens Found in: Cats, dogs, and other animals Effects: Itchy eyes, sneezing, runny nose, etc

Interferes with endocrine system Example: PCB’s Endocrine Disruptor

Endocrine Disruptors Found in: Fish tissues, soil, contaminated water Effects: Altered thyroid hormone levels