Carcinogens public perceptions

Section 13.2 Qualitative Risk Scenarios Section 13.3 Quantitative Risk Non-carcinogens Section 13.4 Quantitative Risk Carcinogens Section 13.5 Risk Uncertainties/Liinitations Section 13.6 Risk-Based Decision Making Section 13.7 Public Perception of Risk... 

The popular movie Erin Brockovich, although focusing on the power industry, is an example of how the popular media can simplify the public s perception of chemical exposure. In Erin Brockovich the chemical of concern was hexavalent chromium, Cr +. Hexavalent chromium is listed as a carcinogen by EPA, but complicated questions dealing with exposure (drinking, inhalation, absorption through skin), toxicity levels, and specific health effects were lost in Hollywood s version. 

The public s perception of toxicity and risk often differs from that found by scientific testing.16 The idea that natural 17 is better than chemical is overly simplistic. Many chemicals found in nature are extremely potent biologically. Mycotoxins are among these.18 Aflatoxins (1.4) were discovered when turkeys fed moldy ground nut (peanut) meal became ill and died. They are among the most potent carcinogens known. 

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