Synthetic chemicals riskiness

In the following I make suggestions for how we should assess this capacity to cause harm. I then discuss three other features of synthetic chemicals — novelty, persistence and mobility - that have a bearing on how reliable we should consider our knowledge about a chemical to be and the degree of reliability that we should seek. In Chapter 10 1 discuss how assessments of riskiness could function in regimes for regulation of chemicals. 

We clearly need to refine greatly our scientific tools, both epidemiological and experimental, for uncovering the role of our natural and synthetic chemical environment in human disease. And, so that we are not accused of putting only a negative slant on this matter, we need to point out that there is substantial evidence that some natural chemicals, and no doubt some synthetic chemicals as well (in addition to those we use as medicines) have a role in disease prevention. This means that our investigatory tools need to be able not only to sort the risky from the non-risky, but also to identify how certain chemicals actually reduce risks. 

A reading of the preceding series of news items and articles indicates that the investigations are mostly limited to synthetic chemicals rather than plant-derived substances, with pharmaceutical companies being heavily involved. However, if biotechnology is a business proposition, it is nevertheless a risky one. The statistic is supplied that for 1400 biotechnology companies located in North America, fewer that 50 products have been successfully commercialized. The quote is added that biotech is one of the worst investments on the street. ... 

How do people view chemicals Studies have shown that people will accept a risk level of 1 in 10,000 from aflatoxin in order to eat peanut butter and reject a risk level of 1 in 1,000,000 for some synthetic chemical that has some benefit also associated with it. Natural is seen as less risky than synthetic or nonnatural. 

Choose an all-natural anti-mosquito product, such as the Herbal Insect Repellent from Real Purity (http //realpu rity.com) or a different product that can be easily tolerated, but avoid all chemical creams and spray cans. It is very risky to keep using such products with regard to the possible deterioration of your situation. If you re able to tolerate essential oils, tea tree oil is also a good substance to ward off mosquitoes and other biting insects. It also helps treat the itch and the swelling when you ve already been bitten. Use organic tea tree oil (see entry 297) Avoid cheaper (often synthetic) essential oils, which can cause reactions in those with sensitivities. Do not use a mosquito net that has been treated with an insecticide. 

Metal-based chemicals and halogen compounds added to reduce the (in itself not very risky) potential flammability of feathers and down, or additionally, for pest control. Most of these substances are currently prohibited as additives in natural or synthetic materials meant for human use. 

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