Dioxin Updated: February 20th, 2010 | 
| QUESTIONS |
ANSWERS |
| What is this chemical? |
Dioxin is a family of chlorinated hydrocarbon compounds.
Dioxins are highly toxic and persist in the environment for extended periods of time. Dioxins are formed as a by-product as a result of combustion processes such as commercial or municipal waste incineration and from burning fuels like wood, coal or oil.
All dioxins are toxic chemicals to different degrees. |
| What is its purpose? |
Dioxins serve no useful purpose. |
| Where is it found? |
Much of the population has low-level exposure to dioxins. Most dioxin exposure occurs through the diet, with over 95% coming through dietary intake of animal fats.
In the environment, dioxins accumulate in soils, sediments and waste disposal sites. Small amounts of exposure occur from breathing air containing trace amounts of dioxins on particles and in vapor form, from inadvertent ingestion of soil containing dioxins, and from absorption through the skin contacting air, soil, or water containing minute levels of dioxins. |
| HEALTH CONCERNS |
| Is this chemical a carcinogen? |
One of the main concerns over health effects from dioxins is the risk of cancer in adults. Several studies suggest that workers exposed to high levels of dioxins at their workplace over many years have an increased risk of cancer.
Animal studies have also shown an increased risk of cancer from long-term exposure to dioxins. |
| How can it affect me? |
Dioxins can cause a skin disease called chloracne. Chloracne cases have typically been the result of accidents or significant contamination events.
Studies have shown that exposure to dioxins at high enough doses may cause a number of adverse health effects. The health effects associated with dioxins depend on a variety of factors including: the level of exposure, when someone was exposed, and for how long and how often. Because dioxins are so widespread, we all have some level of dioxins in our bodies.
Based on data from animal studies, there is some concern that exposure to low levels of dioxins over long periods (or high level exposures at sensitive times) might result in reproductive or developmental effects such as miscarriages and birth defects. |
| Are there controversial issues? |
No. |
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