Environmental Health Risks and Toxicology

These flashcards cover key terms, definitions, and concepts related to environmental health risks, toxic metals, diseases, and their connections as discussed in the lecture notes.

CERLA Priority List

A list updated by the EPA of hazardous substances posing the most significant threat to human health.

Dioxins

A group of chemically related compounds that are persistent environmental pollutants (POPs).

Toxic Metals

Harmful metals that can have serious health effects; examples include Aluminum, Arsenic, Cadmium, Beryllium, and Chromium.

Arsenic in Drinking Water

Toxic metal that can contaminate drinking water through pipes; regulated by the EPA.

DDT

A pesticide used historically, notably during military operations in Vietnam, now banned in many countries.

Alzheimer's Disease Connection

Some toxic metals, particularly aluminum, have been connected to the development of Alzheimer's disease.

Anthrax

A disease posing risk to herbivores and those who work with them, with three forms: cutaneous, inhalation, and gastrointestinal.

Cutaneous Anthrax

Skin infection characterized by itching, lesions, and development of black eschar.

Inhalation Anthrax

Form of anthrax that mimics upper respiratory infections, leading to serious respiratory distress.

Bioaccumulation

The accumulation of substances, such as pesticides or heavy metals, in an organism.

Zoonotic Diseases

Diseases that are transmissible from animals to humans, like Influenza and vector-borne diseases.

Vector-borne Diseases

Diseases transmitted by vectors, often insects, including malaria and Lyme disease.

Iron's Role in Health

Essential for cellular growth and oxygen transport; common in childhood poisoning cases.

Malaria Resurgence

Re-emerging disease, often in less maintained environments, primarily transmitted by mosquitoes.

Pesticides

Chemicals used to eliminate pests, which may have toxic effects on health and the environment.