What Are Common Environmental Contaminants Monitored?
Environmental monitoring in toxicology focuses on a wide range of contaminants, including but not limited to:
Heavy Metals: Lead, mercury, cadmium, and arsenic are commonly monitored due to their toxic effects on human health and the environment. Pesticides: Monitoring pesticide residues in soil, water, and food products is crucial for assessing their impact on human health and wildlife. Organic Pollutants: Compounds such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and dioxins are persistent in the environment and pose significant health risks. Air Pollutants: Monitoring air quality for pollutants like particulate matter, nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) is essential for public health.
