1. Pollution and Human Health
Graphic Organizer

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

3. 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

4. 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

5. 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

6. 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