News & Events

Database links environmental exposures with diseases

Three physicians have compiled an extensive database, from a comprehensive review of published scientific research on human health finds links between environmental exposures and approximately 200 different diseases. Many compounds in widespread use are implicated by these results. The strength of association varies widely, for example from well-understood causal links between asbestos and mesothelioma to recurring but weak patterns linking certain pesticides and chronic bronchitis. More…

http://www.protectingourhealth.org/corethemes/links/2004-0203spreadsheet.htm

The Database:

The accompanying database summarizes many links between chemical contaminants and about 200 human diseases, disorders, or conditions. We have designed this database to reflect the current state of knowledge about toxicants and human disease, organized by disease categories. Although the database focuses mainly on specific diseases, some clinical symptoms also have been included where clinical knowledge is lacking. For example, few chemicals are directly associated with the clinical syndrome of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, but a larger number are associated with decreased attention span.

Data were obtained from three major textbooks on the topic of Environmental Medicine and Toxicology. These sources are:

Klaassen CD, Ed. Casarett and Doull’s Toxicology: The Basic Science of Poisons, 6th ed. (2001) McGraw-Hill publishing, New York . LaDou J. Ed. Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 2nd Edition (1997) Appleton & Lange, Stamford , CT Rom WM, Ed. Environmental and Occupational Medicine, 3rd edition (1998). Lippincott-Raven, Philadelphia , PA.

Submitted by:

David Wallinga, MD, MPA

Co-director, Food and Health Program

Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy