Pollution and Human Health Graphic Organizer

1. Environmental Effects Pollution causes illness in 2 ways Direct (poisoning) Indirect (Infectious Disease) Example: Cholera and River Blindness

2. Toxicology The study of harmful effects of substances on organisms Humans are exposed to small amounts of chemicals DAILY Dose: Amount of a harmful chemical to which a person is exposed Response: the damage to a person’s health from the dose Represented with Dose Response Curves

3. Epidemiology The study of the spread of diseases Risk Assessment Trace a disease to find its origins (Patient Zero) Risk Assessment Determine risk posed by pollutants May lead to government regulation Air Flow Model

4. Natural Pollution Occurs naturally in the environment Particulates: solid particles in the air that are small enough to breathe in Dust, soot May be trapped in the lungs and cause irritation (Chronic bronchitis and emphysema) Heavy Metals (Arsenic, cadmium, lead, & mercury) Occur naturally in rocks and soil Large amounts may cause nerve damage

5. Pollution from Human Activities Only 10% of commercial chemicals are tested for toxicity U.S. has regulations to reduce pollutant exposure Burning fuels Release large amounts of air pollution (Carbon monoxide, particulates) Pesticides Dangerous in large enough doses Pose the greatest risk to children (their organs and tissues are still developing) Industrial chemicals Exposed to low levels daily (building materials, carpet, furniture, etc.) Waste Disposal Waste water, waste incineration, landfills, radioactive wastes