Toxin Chemicals that exceeded EPA standards at NAF Atsugi, Japan

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2002 Final Report   There were 11 different VOCs with a frequency of detection exceeding 50% and a maximum value that exceeded the EPA Region 3 RBC value.  The VOCs were 1,2,4-trimethylbenzene, benzene, chloromethane, methylene chloride, 1,2,4-trimethylbenzene, toluene, trichloroethylene, carbon tetrachloride, 1,3-butadiene, chloroform, and acetonitrile.  In addition, nine other compounds with a frequency of detection ranging from 0.3% to 36% had maximum concentrations in excess of the RBC.  ******************************************************************************

ATSDR - Top 20 Hazardous Substances  

Arsenic 

Haz Map data for Arsenic 

ATSDR - How likely is arsenic to cause cancer? 

Several studies have shown that ingestion of inorganic arsenic can increase the risk of skin cancer and cancer in the liver, bladder, and lungs. Inhalation of inorganic arsenic can cause increased risk of lung cancer. The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and the EPA have determined that inorganic arsenic is a known human carcinogen. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has determined that inorganic arsenic is carcinogenic to humans.

There is some evidence that long-term exposure to arsenic in children may result in lower IQ scores. There is also some evidence that exposure to arsenic in the womb and early childhood may increase mortality in young adults.

There is some evidence that inhaled or ingested arsenic can injure pregnant women or their unborn babies, although the studies are not definitive. Studies in animals show that large doses of arsenic that cause illness in pregnant females, can also cause low birth weight, fetal malformations, and even fetal death. Arsenic can cross the placenta and has been found in fetal tissues. Arsenic is found at low levels in breast milk.

USEPA - Arsenic Compounds 
  • Acute inhalation exposure of workers to high levels of arsenic dusts or fumes has resulted in gastrointestinal effects (nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain), while acute exposure of workers to inorganic arsenic has also resulted in central and peripheral nervous system disorders.
  • Chronic inhalation exposure to inorganic arsenic in humans is associated with irritation of the skin and mucous membranes (dermatitis, conjunctivitis, pharyngitis, and rhinitis).
  • Chronic oral exposure to inorganic arsenic in humans has resulted in gastrointestinal effects, anemia, peripheral neuropathy, skin lesions, hyperpigmentation, gangrene of the extremities, vascular lesions, and liver or kidney damage
  • Human, inhalation studies have reported inorganic arsenic exposure to be strongly associated with lung cancer.
  • Ingestion of inorganic arsenic in humans has been associated with an increased risk of nonmelanoma skin cancer and also to an increased risk of bladder, liver, and lung cancer.
  • Target Organs  - Liver, kidneys, skin, lungs, lymphatic system,  Symptoms -Ulceration of nasal septum, dermatitis, gastrointestinal disturbances, peripheral neuropathy, respiratory irritation, hyperpigmentation of skin, [potential occupational carcinogen]  

    Benzene 

    Haz Map data for Benzene 

    ATSDR - How likely is benzene to cause cancer? 

    Long-term exposure to high levels of benzene in the air can cause leukemia, particularly acute myelogenous leukemia, often referred to as AML. This is a cancer of the bloodforming organs. The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has determined that benzene is a known carcinogen. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and the EPA have determined that benzene is carcinogenic to humans.

    Children can be affected by benzene exposure in the same ways as adults. It is not known if children are more susceptible to benzene poisoning than adults.  Benzene can pass from the mother’s blood to a fetus. Animal studies have shown low birth weights, delayed bone formation, and bone marrow damage when pregnant animals breathed benzene.

    • USEPA - Benzeze 
    • The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has determined that benzene causes cancer in humans. Long-term exposure to high levels of benzene in the air can cause leukemia, cancer of the blood-forming organs.
    • The major effect of benzene from long-term exposure is on the blood. (Long-term exposure means exposure of a year or more.) Benzene causes harmful effects on the bone marrow and can cause a decrease in red blood cells, leading to anemia. It can also cause excessive bleeding and can affect the immune system, increasing the chance for infection. 
    • Some women who breathed high levels of benzene for many months had irregular menstrual periods and a decrease in the size of their ovaries. It is not known whether benzene exposure affects the developing fetus in pregnant women or fertility in men.
    • Animal studies have shown low birth weights, delayed bone formation, and bone marrow damage when pregnant animals breathed benzene.

    Target Organs - Liver, kidneys, skin, lungs, lymphatic system, Symptoms - Ulceration of nasal septum, dermatitis, gastrointestinal disturbances, peripheral neuropathy, respiratory irritation, hyperpigmentation of skin, [potential occupational carcinogen], Cancer Site - [lung & lymphatic cancer]     

    Beryllium

    Haz Map data for Beryllium 

    ATSDR - How likely is beryllium to cause cancer? 

    Long term exposure to beryllium can increase the risk of developing lung cancer in people.

    The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) have determined that beryllium is a human carcinogen. The EPA has determined that beryllium is a probable human carcinogen. EPA has estimated that lifetime exposure to 0.04 µg/m3 beryllium can result in a one in a thousand chance of developing cancer.

    There are no studies on the health effects of children exposed to beryllium. It is likely that the health effects seen in children exposed to beryllium will be similar to the effects seen in adults. We do not know whether children differ from adults in their susceptibility to beryllium. 

    • Acute inhalation exposure to high levels of beryllium has been observed to cause inflammation of the lungs and acute pneumonitis (reddening and swelling of the lungs) in humans; after exposure ends, these symptoms may be reversible.
    • Chronic occupational exposure of humans to beryllium by inhalation has been reported to cause chronic beryllium disease (berylliosis), in which granulomatous lesions (noncancerous) develop in the lung.  The onset of these effects may be delayed by 3 months to more than 20 years.  Symptoms of chronic beryllium disease include irritation of the mucous membranes, reduced lung capacity, shortness of breath, fatigue, anorexia, dyspnea, malaise, and weight loss.
    • Several human epidemiological studies have investigated the relationship between beryllium exposure in workers and lung cancer deaths.  Although there are shortcomings in all the studies, the results are suggestive of a causal relationship between beryllium exposure and an increased risk of lung cancer

    Target Organs-  Eyes, skin, respiratory systemm, Symptoms - Berylliosis (chronic exposure): anorexia, weight loss, lassitude (weakness, exhaustion), chest pain, cough, clubbing of fingers, cyanosis, pulmonary insufficiency; irritation eyes; dermatitis; [potential occupational carcinogen], Cancer Site - [lung cancer]                 

    Carbon Tetrachloride         

    Haz Map data for Carbon Tetrachloride 

    ATSDR - How likely is carbon tetrachloride to cause cancer? 

    The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has determined that carbon tetrachloride may reasonably be anticipated to be a carcinogen. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has determined that carbon tetrachloride is possibly carcinogenic to humans, whereas the EPA determined that carbon tetrachloride is a probable human carcinogen.

    The health effects of carbon tetrachloride have not been studied in children, but they are likely to be similar to those seen in adults exposed to the chemical. We do not know whether children differ from adults in their susceptibility to carbon tetrachloride.  A few survey-type studies suggest that maternal drinking water exposure to carbon tetrachloride might possibly be related to certain birth defects. Studies in animals showed that carbon tetrachloride can cause early fetal deaths, but did not cause birth defects. 

    • USEPA - Carbon Tetrachloride 
    • Acute inhalation and oral exposures to high levels of carbon tetrachloride have been observed primarily to damage the liver (swollen, tender liver, changes in enzyme levels, and jaundice) and kidneys (nephritis, nephrosis, proteinurea) of humans.  Depression of the central nervous system has also been reported.  Symptoms of acute exposure in humans include headache, weakness, lethargy, nausea, and vomiting. 
    • Delayed pulmonary edema (fluid in lungs) has been observed in humans exposed to high levels of carbon tetrachloride by inhalation and ingestion, but this is believed to be due to injury to the kidney rather than direct action of carbon tetrachloride on the lung
    • Chronic inhalation or oral exposure to carbon tetrachloride produces liver and kidney damage in humans and animals

     Target Organs - central nervous system, eyes, lungs, liver, kidneys, skin, Symptoms - Irritation eyes, skin; central nervous system depression; nausea, vomiting; liver, kidney injury; drowsiness, dizziness, incoordination; [potential occupational carcinogen]

    Cadmium  

    Haz Map data for Cadmium  

    ATSDR - How can cadmium affect my health? 

    Breathing high levels of cadmium severely damages the lungs and can cause death. Eating food or drinking water with very high levels severely irritates the stomach, leading to vomiting and diarrhea. Long-term exposure to lower levels of cadmium in air, food, or water leads to a buildup of cadmium in the kidneys and possible kidney disease. Other long-term effects are lung damage and fragile bones.

    ATSDR - How likely is cadmium to cause cancer? 

    The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has determined that cadmium and cadmium compounds may reasonably be anticipated to be carcinogens.

    Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology Volume 207, Issue 2, 1 September 2005, Pages 179-186 Conclusions: Exposure to cadmium appears to be associated with renal cancer  

     USEPA - Cadmium 
  • Acute inhalation exposure to high levels of cadmium in humans may result in effects on the lung, such as bronchial and pulmonary irritation. A single acute exposure to high levels of cadmium can result in long-lasting impairment of lung function
  • Chronic inhalation and oral exposure of humans to cadmium results in a build-up of cadmium in the kidneys that can cause kidney disease, including proteinuria, a decrease in glomerular filtration rate, and an increased frequency of kidney stone formation.
  • Other effects noted in occupational settings from chronic exposure of humans to cadmium in air are effects on the lung, including bronchiolitis and emphysema.
  • Chronic inhalation or oral exposure of animals to cadmium results in effects on the kidney, liver, lung, bone, immune system, blood, and nervous system.
  • Limited evidence exists for an association between inhalation exposure and a reduction in sperm number and viability in humans.
  • Human developmental studies on cadmium are limited, although there is some evidence to suggest that maternal cadmium exposure may result in decreased birthweights.
  • Several occupational studies have reported an excess risk of lung cancer in humans from exposure to inhaled cadmium. However, the evidence is limited rather than conclusive due to confounding factors.
  • Animal studies have reported cancer resulting from inhalation exposure to several forms of cadmium, while animal ingestion studies have not demonstrated cancer resulting from exposure to cadmium compounds.
  • EPA considers cadmium to be a probable human carcinogen (cancer-causing agent) and has classified it as a Group B1 carcinogen.
  • Target Organs  - respiratory system, kidneys, prostate, blood,  Symptoms - Pulmonary edema, dyspnea (breathing difficulty), cough, chest tightness, substernal (occurring beneath the sternum) pain; headache; chills, muscle aches; nausea, vomiting, diarrhea; anosmia (loss of the sense of smell), emphysema, proteinuria, mild anemia; [potential occupational carcinogen], Cancer Site - [prostatic & lung cancer]  

    Chloroform  / Trichloromethane

    Haz Map data for Chloroform   

    USEPA - Chloroform 

    • The major effect from acute inhalation exposure to chloroform in humans is central nervous system depression. At very high levels (40,000 ppm), chloroform exposure may result in death, with concentrations in the range of 1,500 to 30,000 ppm producing anesthesia, and lower concentrations (<1,500 ppm) resulting in dizziness, headache, tiredness, and other effects.
    • Effects noted in humans exposed to chloroform via anesthesia include changes in respiratory rate, cardiac effects, gastrointestinal effects, such as nausea and vomiting, and effects on the liver and kidney. Chloroform is not currently used as a surgical anesthetic.
    • Chronic exposure to chloroform by inhalation in humans is associated with effects on the liver, including hepatitis and jaundice, and central nervous system effects, such as depression and irritability. Inhalation exposures of animals have also resulted in effects on the kidney.
    • Chronic oral exposure to chloroform in humans has resulted in effects on the blood, liver, and kidney.
    • Chloroform has been shown to be carcinogenic in animals after oral exposure, resulting in an increase in kidney and liver tumors.
    • EPA considers chloroform to be a probable human carcinogen and has ranked it in EPA's Group B2.

    Target Organs -  Liver, kidneys, heart, eyes, skin, central nervous system, Symptoms  - Irritation eyes, skin; dizziness, mental dullness, nausea, confusion; headache, lassitude (weakness, exhaustion); anesthesia; enlarged liver; [potential occupational carcinogen]

     
    2,3,7,8, TCDD (Dioxin)  

    Haz Map data for Dioxin  

     dioxin, 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-para-dioxin (TCDD) was a byproduct of Agent Orange used in Vietnam  

    According to the VA,  "One of the chemicals in Agent Orange contained small amounts of dioxin (also known as “TCDD”), which had been found to cause a variety of illnesses in laboratory animals. More recent studies have suggested that dioxin may be related to several types of cancer and other disorders.  The VA disability compensation program has information regarding the following illnesses and cancers for dioxin exposure.  

    Birth Defects, Chloracne, Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma, Soft Tissue Sarcomas, Peripheral Neuropathy, Hodgkin's Disease, Porphyria Cutanea Tarda, Multiple Myeloma, Respiratory Cancers, Prostate Cancer, Spina Bifida, Diabetes, Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia

    EPA - Impacts of Dioxin Emissions from the Shinkampo Incinerator to the United States Naval Air Facility at Atsugi, Japan 

    ATSDR DIOXIN HEALTH AFFECTS 

    Symptoms - Irritation eyes; allergic dermatitis, chloracne; porphyria; gastrointestinal disturbance; possible reproductive, teratogenic effects; in animals: liver, kidney damage; hemorrhage; [potential occupational carcinogen], Target Organs - Eyes, skin, liver, kidneys, reproductive system   

    The dioxin range of concentrations in the carpet/floor dust samples was 17-210 pg TEQ/g, which were higher than maximum dioxin (TEQ) concentrations in the soil on base, indicating that outdoor soil and/or air contamination were infiltrating in the homes.  2002 Final Report pg 87.

    Lead 

    Haz Map data for Lead 

     ATSDR - How can lead affect my health? 

    The effects of lead are the same whether it enters the body through breathing or swallowing. Lead can affect almost every organ and system in your body. The main target for lead toxicity is the nervous system, both in adults and children. Long-term exposure of adults can result in decreased performance in some tests that measure functions of the nervous system. It may also cause weakness in fingers, wrists, or ankles. Lead exposure also causes small increases in blood pressure, particularly in middle-aged and older people and can cause anemia. Exposure to high lead levels can severely damage the brain and kidneys in adults or children and ultimately cause death. In pregnant women, high levels of exposure to lead may cause miscarriage. Highlevel exposure in men can damage the organs responsible for sperm production.

    We have no conclusive proof that lead causes cancer in humans. Kidney tumors have developed in rats and mice that had been given large doses of some kind of lead compounds. The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has determined that lead and lead compounds are reasonably anticipated to be human carcinogens and the EPA has determined that lead is a probable human carcinogen. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has determined that inorganic lead is probably carcinogenic to humans and that there is insufficient information to determine whether organic lead compounds will cause cancer in humans.

    ATSDR - How does lead affect children? 

    Small children can be exposed by eating lead-based paint chips, chewing on objects painted with lead-based paint, or swallowing house dust or soil that contains lead. Children are more vulnerable to lead poisoning than adults. A child who swallows large amounts of lead may develop blood anemia, severe stomachache, muscle weakness, and brain damage. If a child swallows smaller amounts of lead, much less severe effects on blood and brain function may occur. Even at much lower levels of exposure, lead can affect a child’s mental and physical growth.

    Exposure to lead is more dangerous for young and unborn children. Unborn children can be exposed to lead through their mothers. Harmful effects include premature births, smaller babies, decreased mental ability in the infant, learning difficulties, and reduced growth in young children. These effects are more common if the mother or baby was exposed to high levels of lead. Some of these effects may persist beyond childhood.

    • Death from lead poisoning may occur in children who have blood lead levels greater than 125 µg/dL and brain and kidney damage have been reported at blood lead levels of approximately 100 µg/dL in adults and 80 µg/dL in children.
    • Chronic exposure to lead in humans can affect the blood.  Anemia has been reported in adults at blood lead levels of 50 to 80 µg/dL, and in children at blood lead levels of 40 to 70 µg/dL.
    • Lead also affects the nervous system.  Neurological symptoms have been reported in workers with blood lead levels of 40 to 60 µg/dL, and slowed nerve conduction in peripheral nerves in adults occurs at blood lead levels of 30 to 40 µg/dL. 
    • Children are particularly sensitive to the neurotoxic effects of lead.  There is evidence that blood lead levels of 10 to 30 µg/dL, or lower, may affect the hearing threshold and growth in children.
    • Other effects from chronic lead exposure in humans include effects on blood pressure and kidney function, and interference with vitamin D metabolism.
    • Studies on male lead workers have reported severe depression of sperm count and decreased function of the prostate and/or seminal vesicles at blood lead levels of 40 to 50 µg/dL.  These effects may be seen from acute as well as chronic exposures.
    • Occupational exposure to high levels of lead has been associated with a high likelihood of spontaneous abortion in pregnant women.  However, the lowest blood lead levels at which this occurs has not been established.  These effects may be seen from acute as well as chronic exposures.
    • Exposure to lead during pregnancy produces toxic effects on the human fetus, including increased risk of preterm delivery, low birthweight, and impaired mental development.  These effects have been noted at maternal blood lead levels of 10 to 15 µg/dL, and possibly lower.  Decreased IQ scores have been noted in children at blood lead levels of approximately 10 to 50 µg/dL
    • Human studies are inconclusive regarding lead exposure and an increased cancer risk. Four major human studies of workers exposed to lead have been carried out; two studies did not find an association between lead exposure and cancer, one study found an increased incidence of respiratory tract and kidney cancers, and the fourth study found excesses for lung and stomach cancers.

    Target Organs - Eyes, gastrointestinal tract, central nervous system, kidneys, blood, gingival tissue, Symptoms - Lassitude (weakness, exhaustion), insomnia; facial pallor; anorexia, weight loss, malnutrition; constipation, abdominal pain, colic; anemia; gingival lead line; tremor; paralysis wrist, ankles; encephalopathy; kidney disease; irritation eyes; hypotension                              

    Mercury       

    Haz Map data for Mercury 

    NIH - Mercury Health Hazards 

    For fetuses, infants and children, the primary health effects of mercury are on neurological development. Even low levels of mercury exposure such as result from mother's consumption methylmercury in dietary sources can adversely affect the brain and nervous system. Impacts on memory, attention, language and other skills have been found in children exposed to moderate levels in the womb. 

    • USEPA - Mercury  
    • The primary effect from chronic exposure to inorganic mercury is kidney damage, primarily due to mercury-induced autoimmune glomerulonephritis (induction of an immune response to the body's kidney tissue) in humans.
    • Acrodynia may also occur from exposure to inorganic mercury compounds.
    • Symptoms noted after acute oral exposure to inorganic mercury compounds include a metallic taste in the mouth, nausea, vomiting, and severe abdominal pain in humans

      USEPA - Mercury Health Effects 

    In addition to the subtle impairments noted above, symptoms of methylmercury poisoning may include; impairment of the peripheral vision; disturbances in sensations ("pins and needles" feelings, usually in the hands, feet, and around the mouth); lack of coordination of movements; impairment of speech, hearing, walking; and muscle weakness.

    Target Organs -  Eyes, skin, respiratory system, central nervous system, kidneys,  Symptoms - Irritation eyes, skin; cough, chest pain, dyspnea (breathing difficulty), bronchitis, pneumonitis; tremor, insomnia, irritability, indecision, headache, lassitude (weakness, exhaustion); stomatitis, salivation; gastrointestinal disturbance, anorexia, weight loss; proteinuria 

    Nitrogen Dioxide    

    Haz Map data for Nitrogen Dioxide 

    N0x - How Nitrogen Oxides Affect the Way We Live and Breathe

    Nitrogen Dioxide and Respiratory Illness in Children 

    Chief Causes for Concern 

    Target Organs  -Eyes, respiratory system, cardiovascular system, Symptoms -Irritation eyes, nose, throat; cough, mucoid frothy sputum, decreased pulmonary function, chronic bronchitis, dyspnea (breathing difficulty); chest pain; pulmonary edema, cyanosis, tachypnea, tachycardia     

     

    Particulate Matter (PM)

    USEPA Particulate Matter Overview 

    Basic Information

    Health Effects

    Particle pollution - especially fine particles - contains microscopic solids or liquid droplets that are so small that they can get deep into the lungs and cause serious health problems. Numerous scientific studies have linked particle pollution exposure to a variety of problems, including:

    • increased respiratory symptoms, such as irritation of the airways, coughing, or difficulty breathing, for example;
    • decreased lung function;
    • aggravated asthma;
    • development of chronic bronchitis;
    • irregular heartbeat;
    • nonfatal heart attacks; and
    • premature death in people with heart or lung disease

    PM - Fact Sheet 


    Sulfur Dioxide     

    Haz Map data for Sulfur Dioxide 

    ASTDR - How can sulfur dioxide affect my health? 

    Short-term exposures to high levels of sulfur dioxide can be life-threatening Exposure to 100 parts of sulfur dioxide per million parts of air (ppm) is considered immediately dangerous to life and health Previously healthy nonsmoking miners who breathed sulfur dioxide released as a result of an explosion in an underground copper mine developed burning of the nose and throat, breathing difficulties, and severe airway obstructions Long-term exposure to persistent levels of sulfur dioxide can also affect your health Lung function changes have been observed in some workers exposed to 0.4–3.0 ppm sulfur dioxide for 20 years or more However, these workers were also exposed to other chemicals, making it difficult to attribute their health effects to sulfur dioxide exposure alone Additionally, exercising asthmatics are sensitive to the respiratory effects of low concentrations (0.25 ppm) of sulfur dioxide. For comparative purposes, typical outdoor concentrations of sulfur dioxide may range from 0 to 1 ppm Occupational exposures to sulfur dioxide may lawfully range from 0 to 5 ppm as enforced by your state OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) During any 8-hour workshift of a 40-hour workweek, the average concentration of sulfur dioxide in the workplace may not exceed 5 ppm However, during system malfunctions or unforeseen events, levels approaching 50 ppm or more have been reported.

     

    Target Organs  -Eyes, skin, respiratory system, Symptoms -Irritation eyes, nose, throat; rhinorrhea (discharge of thin mucus); choking, cough; reflex bronchoconstriction


    Trichloroethene  - Trichlorethylene (TCE)

    Haz Map data for TCE 

    ATSDR - How can trichloroethylene affect my health? 

    Breathing small amounts may cause headaches, lung irritation, dizziness, poor coordination, and difficulty concentrating. Breathing large amounts of trichloroethylene may cause impaired heart function, unconsciousness, and death. Breathing it for long periods may cause nerve, kidney, and liver damage.  Drinking large amounts of trichloroethylene may cause nausea, liver damage, unconsciousness, impaired heart function, or death.  Drinking small amounts of trichloroethylene for long periods may cause liver and kidney damage, impaired immune system function, and impaired fetal development in pregnant women, although the extent of some of these effects is not yet clear.  Skin contact with trichloroethylene for short periods may cause skin rashes.

    Some studies with mice and rats have suggested that high levels of trichloroethylene may cause liver, kidney, or lung cancer. Some studies of people exposed over long periods to high levels of trichloroethylene in drinking water or in workplace air have found evidence of increased cancer. Although, there are some concerns about the studies of people who were exposed to trichloroethylene, some of the effects found in people were similar to effects in animals.  In its 9th Report on Carcinogens, the National Toxicology Program (NTP) determined that trichloroethylene is “reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen.” The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has determined that trichloroethylene is “probably carcinogenic to humans.”

    USEPA - Trichloroethylene 

      • Central nervous system effects are the primary effects noted from acute inhalation exposure to trichloroethylene in humans, with symptoms including sleepiness, fatigue, headache, confusion, and feelings of euphoria. Effects on the liver, kidneys, gastrointestinal system, and skin have also been noted
      •  As with acute exposure, chronic exposure to trichloroethylene by inhalation also affects the human central nervous system. Case reports of intermediate and chronic occupational exposures included effects such as dizziness, headache, sleepiness, nausea, confusion, blurred vision, facial numbness, and weakness.
      • The cancer epidemiology for trichloroethylene has grown in recent years with several large, well-designed studies being published.  A recent analysis of available epidemiological studies reports trichloroethylene exposure to be associated with several types of cancers in humans, especially kidney, liver, cervix, and lymphatic system. Consistency across epidemiological studies is strongest for an association between trichloroethylene exposure and kidney cancer.  These results are supported by recent molecular epidemiology studies showing specific renal cell mutations found primarily in renal cell carcinoma patients exposed to trichloroethylene

    At high levels of exposure, TCE has known toxic effects in humans, mainly related to the central nervous system. However, some studies have suggested that TCE may also be linked to autoimmune diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus and systemic sclerosis. 

    Target Organs  - Eyes, skin, respiratory system, heart, liver, kidneys, central nervous system, Symptoms - Irritation eyes, skin; headache, visual disturbance, lassitude (weakness, exhaustion), dizziness, tremor, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting; dermatitis; cardiac arrhythmias, paresthesia; liver injury; [potential occupational carcinogen]

    Vinyl Chloride       

    Haz Map data for Vinyl Chloride 

    ATSDR - How can vinyl chloride affect my health? 

    Breathing high levels of vinyl chloride can cause you to feel dizzy or sleepy. Breathing very high levels can cause you to pass out, and breathing extremely high levels can cause death. Some people who have breathed vinyl chloride for several years have changes in the structure of their livers. People are more likely to develop these changes if they breathe high levels of vinyl chloride. Some people who work with vinyl chloride have nerve damage and develop immune reactions. The lowest levels that produce liver changes, nerve damage, and immune reaction in people are not known. Some workers exposed to very high levels of vinyl chloride have problems with the blood flow in their hands. Their fingers turn white and hurt when they go into the cold.

    ATSDR - How likely is vinyl chloride to cause cancer? 

    The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has determined that vinyl chloride is a known carcinogen. Studies in workers who have breathed vinyl chloride over many years showed an increased risk of liver, brain, lung cancer, and some cancers of the blood have also been observed in workers.

    • USEPA - Vinyl Choride  
    • Acute exposure of humans to high levels of vinyl chloride via inhalation in humans has resulted in effects on the CNS, such as dizziness, drowsiness, headaches, and giddiness.
    • Vinyl chloride is reported to be slightly irritating to the eyes and respiratory tract in humans
    • Liver damage may result in humans from chronic exposure to vinyl chloride, through both inhalation and oral exposure.
    • A small percentage of individuals occupationally exposed to high levels of vinyl chloride in air have developed a set of symptoms termed "vinyl chloride disease," which is characterized by Raynaud's phenomenon (fingers blanch and numbness and discomfort are experienced upon exposure to the cold), changes in the bones at the end of the fingers, joint and muscle pain, and scleroderma-like skin changes (thickening of the skin, decreased elasticity, and slight edema).
    • Inhaled vinyl chloride has been shown to increase the risk of a rare form of liver cancer (angiosarcoma of the liver) in humans.
    • EPA has classified vinyl chloride as a Group A, human carcinogen

    Target Organs -  Liver, central nervous system, blood, respiratory system, lymphatic system, Symptoms - Lassitude (weakness, exhaustion); abdominal pain, gastrointestinal bleeding; enlarged liver; pallor or cyanosis of extremities; liquid: frostbite; [potential occupational carcinogen], Cancer Site - [liver cancer]

     1,3-Dichloropropene 

    HAZ-MAP data for 1,3-dichloropropene 

    ASTDR - cis-1,3 Dichloropropene  

    Acute inhalation exposure of humans after a tank truck spill resulted in mucous membrane irritation, cough, chest pain, and breathing difficulties. Effects on the lung, including emphysema and edema, have been observed in rats acutely exposed to 1,3-dichloropropene by inhalation.  Chronic dermal exposure may result in skin sensitization in humans. Information on the carcinogenic effects of 1,3-dichloropropene in humans is limited. Two cases of histiocytic lymphomas and one case of leukemia have been reported in emergency response personnel exposed to concentrated 1,3-dichloropropene vapors during cleanup of a tank truck spill.

    Target Organs - Eyes, skin, respiratory system, central nervous system, liver, kidneys; Symptoms -Irritation eyes, skin, respiratory system; eye, skin burns; lacrimation (discharge of tears); headache, dizziness; in animals; liver, kidney damage; [potential occupational carcinogen]

    1,2 Dichlorethane 

    Haz-Map data for 1, 2 Dichlorethane 

    ASDTR - 1, 2 Dichlorethane

    How can 1,2-dichloroethane affect my health?

    Nervous system disorders, liver and kidney diseases, and lung effects have been reported in humans ingesting or inhaling large amounts of 1,2-dichloroethane.

    How likely is 1,2-dichloroethane to cause cancer?

    The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has determined that 1,2-dichloroethane may reasonably be expected to cause cancer. The EPA has determined that 1,2-dichloroethane is a probable human carcinogen and the International Agency for Cancer Research (IARC) considers it to be a possible human carcinogen.

    Target Organs  - Eyes, skin, kidneys, liver, central nervous system, cardiovascular system, Symptoms - Irritation eyes, corneal opacity; central nervous system depression; nausea, vomiting; dermatitis; liver, kidney, cardiovascular system damage; [potential occupational carcinogen 

     1,2 Dichloropropane       

    Haz Map data for 1, 2 Dichloropropane 

    ASTDR - How can 1,2-dichloroethane affect my health? 

    Nervous system disorders, liver and kidney diseases, and lung effects have been reported in humans ingesting or inhaling large amounts of 1,2-dichloroethane. In laboratory animals, breathing or ingesting large amounts of 1,2-dichloroethane have also caused nervous system disorders and liver, kidney, and lung effects. Animal studies also suggest that 1,2-dichloroethane may damage the immune system. Kidney disease has also been seen in animals ingesting low doses of 1,2-dichloroethane for a long time. Studies in animals indicate that 1,2-dichloroethane does not affect reproduction.

    ASTDR - How likely is 1,2-dichloroethane to cause cancer? 

    The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has determined that 1,2-dichloroethane may reasonably be expected to cause cancer. The EPA has determined that 1,2-dichloroethane is a probable human carcinogen and the International Agency for Cancer Research (IARC) considers it to be a possible human carcinogen.

    ASTDR - How can 1,2-dichloroethane affect children? 

    It is likely that health effects seen in children exposed to high levels of 1,2-dichloroethane will be similar to the effects seen in adults.

        • Acute exposure of humans to very high levels of propylene dichloride from inhalation and oral exposure results in effects on the gastrointestinal system, blood, liver, kidneys, and central nervous system.  Additional effects noted in humans, from inhalation exposure only, are effects on the lung (chest discomfort, shortness of breath, and cough) and the eyes (conjunctival hemorrhages).
        • EPA has provisionally classified propylene dichloride as a Group B2, probable human carcinogen.

    Target Organs - Eyes, skin, respiratory system, liver, kidneys, central nervous system, Symptoms- Irritation eyes, skin, respiratory system; drowsiness, dizziness; liver, kidney damage; in animals: central nervous system depression; [potential occupational carcinogen]  

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    Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disorders

     

    ASTDR - Multiple Chemical Exposure 

    A person can be exposed by more than one pathway and to more than one chemical. Exposure to multiple pathways occurs if a contaminant is present in more than one medium (i.e., air, soil, surface water, groundwater, and sediment). For example, the dose of a contaminant received from drinking water might be combined with the dose received from contact with that same contaminant in soil.

    For many chemicals, much information is available on how the individual chemical produces effects. It is much more difficult, however, to assess exposure to multiple chemicals. The vast number of chemicals in the environment make it impossible to measure all of the possible interactions between these chemicals. The potential exists for these chemicals to interact in the body and increase or decrease the potential for adverse health effects. Individual cancer risk estimates can be added since they are measures of probability. When estimating noncancer risk, however, similarities must exist between the chemicals if the doses are to be added. Groups of chemicals that have similar toxic effects can be added, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which cause liver toxicity. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are another group of chemicals that can be assessed as one combined dose based on similarities in chemical structure and metabolites. Although some chemicals can interact to cause a toxic effect that is greater than the added effect, there is little evidence demonstrating this at concentrations commonly found in the environment.

    BUMED 1997  - Background information for the Jinkanpo Incinerator Study Can not be removed from the health record.  12 Emissions that exceeded EPA or New York State Ambient Air quality standards (data from 1995 study)  SF600 

     

    1998 Technical Memorandum Screening Level Air Human Risk Assessment NAF Atsugi, Japan  NEHC

     

     

    Information is provided from the following sources

    Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

    US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA)

    ATSDR - ToxFAQs™: Hazardous Substance Fact Sheets (ATSDR)

    U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs  (VA)

    National Institute of Health (NIH)

    National Institute of Health - HazMap Data (Information on Hazardous Chemicals and Occupational Diseases)

     

    Additional Information

     

    NEHC Technical Manual April06 - Reproductive & Developmental Hazards