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

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

3. Carcinogens
Chemicals that cause cancer
Example: Tobacco Smoke

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

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

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

7. Teratogens
Cause harm to embryo and fetuses
Example: Alcohol

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

9. Neurotoxins Chemicals that affect nervous system
Example: Methylmercury
Neurotoxins

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

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

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

13. Interferes with endocrine system
Example: PCB’s
Endocrine Disruptor

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