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...oxic levels, drugs and other substances can cause cells of a target organ to die. If the insult is severe or prolonged, the organ may not regain normal function. The outcome reflects the ability of the particular organ to regenerate and respond to damage. Examples of non-drug toxins: Increased incidence of toxicity to chemicals in the environment has increased as the number of chemicals used in everyday life has increased. These chemicals affect not only those that work with them directly, but also those who use the products and those exposed to contamination in the air and in the water supply. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) oversees the chemical industry while workers safety is the focus of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Toxic substances present in outside air include carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide. Carbon monoxide impairs the ability of red blood cells to transport oxygen to tissues for respiration. The action of UV light on nitrogen dioxide leads to ozone production that can cause impaired lung function. Sulfur dioxide can also be converted to substances that cause lung damage. Inhalation of particulates such as asbestos and coal dust can likewise cause lung damage. Indoor toxins can result from the use of cleaning products, paints, and solvents in the presence of poor air circulation. Food additives, metals and pesticides are other forms of environmental toxins. By normal hand to mouth activity, many children experience lead poisoning through chronic, low-level exposure. Lead toxicity can cause reduced IQ and attention span, hyperactivity, impaired growth, reading and learning disabilities, hearing loss, insomnia, and a range of other intellectual, and behavioral effects. Bacterial and fungal by-products can contaminate foods and cause toxicity when ingested. An unknown percentage of the population experiences toxic effects associated with the food additive monosodium glutamate (MSG). The symptoms include headache, chest pain, rapid heartbeat, nausea, drowsiness and weakness. It may also precipitate an asthmatic attack in some asthmatics Degree Information Master’s programs (such as the M.S. in Toxicology and Master’s of Environmental Toxicology) typically take two to three years to complete. Completion of the degree usually requires taking a combination of oral and written exams as well as a thesis research project. Though less common, some programs offer dual degrees (for instance, the M.S./J.D.) In general, though, the master’s degree is rarely seen as terminal, and most students continue on for another four-plus years to earn their Ph.D. Also, medical toxicology is an officially recognized as a medical subspecialty, so students must receive a medical degree (M.D.). Pre-Requisites Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, or a related degree. Application Requirements Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university Official transcript(s) from all colleges or universities attended App...