CHAPTER 4

Adverse effects that occur within a short period after high-level exposure to a toxicant.

The increase in toxicant concentrations as a toxicant passes through successive levels of the food chain.

Any substance (for example, chemical, radiation, virus) that causes cancer.

Adverse effects that occur after a long period of low-level exposure to a toxicant.

In toxicology, a graph that shows the effects of different doses on a population of test organisms.

The study of the effects of chemical, biological, and physical agents on the health of human populations

An agent (usually a microorganism) that causes disease.

Persistent toxicants that bio-accumulate in organisms and travel through air and water to contaminate sites far from their source.

The idea that new technologies, practices, or materials should not be adopted until there is strong evidence that they will not adversely affect human or environmental health.

The probability of harm (such as injury, disease, death, or environmental damage) occurring under certain circumstances.

The quantitative and qualitative characterization of risks so that they can be compared, contrasted, and managed.

The study of toxicants, chemicals with adverse effects on health.