Resource: Chapter 18
Select one case study or an example, from Chapter 18 that describes the impacts of a toxic substance on human health.
Answer the following questions based on the risk assessment principles presented in Ch. 18, and in Figure 18-10 in section 18.7 Risk and Risk Assessment.
Write a 200 – 300 word paper using two reputable sources and your textbook to develop your answers.
• Describe one case study presented in Chapter 18. Explain how the toxic chemical(s) from your selected case study affects human health.
• State the major source of this chemical(s) and its uses.
• Review Figure 18-10 and discuss whether you think the risks of this chemical are acceptable. Explain your answer using two factors for determining acceptable risk that are presented in Figure 18-10. Use cited evidence to support your position?
• Describe one limitation in risk assessment. Explain how you would resolve this limitation to improve the effectiveness of risk assessments.
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I am just looking for a direction to go with this assignment! I have no clue where to start??? I have already wrote this assignment three times and I just don't understand why I can't get it right!! Pleas someone help me with where to start this assignment like an example or a toxic substance for me to research and I can do the rest!! Thanks
I just did this. Talk about asbestos !!!!!
To start this assignment, let's choose a case study from Chapter 18 and focus on a toxic substance that affects human health. One example you can consider is the case study on lead poisoning.
1. Description of the case study: The case study on lead poisoning discusses the impacts of lead exposure on human health. Lead is a toxic substance that can enter the body through various sources such as contaminated drinking water, lead-based paints, leaded gasoline, and certain consumer products. When lead enters the body, it can cause significant health problems, particularly in children. Lead exposure can result in developmental delays, lower IQ scores, behavioral issues, neurological damage, and kidney damage.
2. Major source and uses of lead: The major sources of lead exposure include lead-based paints (common in old buildings), lead-contaminated soil, and dust. Lead was also widely used in gasoline until its phase-out, and it can still be found in certain industries. Additionally, lead can be present in consumer products such as toys, ceramics, and cosmetics.
3. Assessment of risks and acceptability: Let's refer to Figure 18-10 in Chapter 18, which presents factors for determining acceptable risk. Two key factors to consider are the severity of the health effects and the level of exposure. In the case of lead poisoning, the health effects can be severe, as it can cause irreversible damage to the developing brain and nervous system in children. Even low levels of lead exposure can have detrimental effects. The level of exposure to lead should be minimized as much as possible because even small amounts can cause harm.
4. Limitation in risk assessment and resolution: One limitation in risk assessment is the uncertainty surrounding the long-term effects of exposure to certain toxic substances. For example, it may take years or decades to observe and understand the full extent of the health impacts of certain chemicals. To improve the effectiveness of risk assessments, it is crucial to conduct long-term studies, epidemiological research, and continuous monitoring of exposed populations. This will help gather more comprehensive and accurate data to evaluate the risks associated with toxic substances.
Remember to consult reputable sources, such as scientific journals or government publications, to gather information and support your answers. Additionally, make sure to refer to your textbook for relevant information and principles related to risk assessment. Good luck with your assignment!