PCB Exposure
...ir, and are sometimes insoluble to water. PCB’s can be found in food, which is the most common source of exposure for humans. Fish that are exposed to contaminated water can carry PCB’s in low concentration, however as fish higher in the food chain eat them, they become highly concentrated. When a human eats a contaminated fish, PCB’s are digested into the body, and the risks of PCB become a factor. Surface soils may also contain concentrations of PCB, which creates a hazard as people may swallow small amounts of the soil, and runoff to lakes and rivers could affect the wildlife. PCB’s are rarely found in groundwater or drinking water, however they may enter a well or pump through the ground. Even indoor air can contain PCB’s from old fluorescent lights or transformers in school or in the workplace. For PCB’s to have a substantial health effect, people need to be exposed to large quantities of it. Small doses of PCB’s are not extremely harmful, unless there is an allergic reaction (which is unlikely). Intake of PCB’s causes skin conditions like acne or rashes and changes in blood and urine (possible liver damage). Several studies on how likely PCB’s are to cause cancer have been done, and the results have been inconclusive. However, scientists predict PCB’s may be the culprit in cancer of the liver and biliary tract in humans. Acute health effects from exposure to PCB’s include eyes, nose and throat irritation. Long-term health effects include damage to the reproduction system and nervous system, causing numbness, weakness, and tingling (pins and needles) in the arms and legs. Today, scientists are testing the effect of PCB’s on human thyroid hormone levels, which are critical for normal growth and development. If PCB’s alter this level, it may have significant implications. There are also risks to having a baby while exposed to PCB’s. Tests have shown abnormal infant behaviour, which can last for several years, reduced birth weight, and immune system suppression. Children can contract these symptoms through breast milk as well. PCB’s are found throughout many environments, and because of this, it may be nearly impossible to avoid exposure all together. Pregnant mothers, or women who plan to become pregnant should limit consuming sport-caught fish from waters contaminated with PCB’s. Hazardous waste facilities should also be avoide...