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Why Are PCBs Dangerous?

PCBs, short for polychlorinated biphenyls, were used as coolants or lubricants in electrical equipment. In 1977, the U.S. stopped manufacturing PCBs due to evidence that they are harmful and stayed in the environment.

  1. PCBs In the environment

    • PCBs do not break down easily and can attach to soil and sediment in water. PCBs build up in fish that eat the sediment and other animals that eat the fish, allowing an accumulation of PCBs that are thousands of time higher than what was in the water or soil. As they accumulate, they become more toxic.

    PCBs Can Travel Long Distances

    • Due to the way PCBs are structured, they are able to travel far distances in the air, polluting where PCBs were never used directly. They are also easily absorbed through skin and inhaled. This increases the likelihood for animals and humans to accumulate toxic amounts.

    Health Hazard

    • Exposure causes many health problems. People exposed to large amounts of PCBs experienced rashes and acne, as well as changes in blood and urine, indicating liver damage.

    Cancer Risk

    • Studies done by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of employees with PCB exposure through their work environment found the increased exposure was associated with liver cancer and cancer of the biliary tract .

    Infant Exposure

    • Babies exposed to PCBs in the womb had lower birth weights and poorer memory and motor skills that continued into the child's 11th year, according to the Michigan Maternal Infant Cohort Study, used by Fox River Watch, a major Wisconsin environmental group.

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