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Dioxins

Dioxins are a family of highly toxic chemicals that are in our environment—in our air, water, soil, and food supply, as well as in our bodies. Dioxins are not intentionally produced, but rather are by-products of combustion and industrial processes, including the manufacture of chlorinated chemicals, the bleaching of paper products, and the incineration of waste (municipal, hazardous, and hospital waste). Dioxins are one of a grouping of toxic pollutants that are persistent in our environment, as well as in the human body. Once they get into the environment and into our bodies, they do not quickly biodegrade into something less toxic, and they have extremely slow natural paths for removal or excretion. They are believed to have a halflife of seven to twelve years in the human body (Wolfe et al., 1995).
From 'Environmental Health in the Healthcare Setting,' by Barbara Sattler, DrPH, RN

 

On the Web

Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
www.atsdr.cdc.gov/tfacts104.html

From Health Care Without Harm:
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