Exposure to POPs can occur through the food chain, where they accumulate in the fatty tissues of animals and fish. Humans can be exposed through consumption of contaminated food, inhalation of air containing POPs, or skin contact. The health effects associated with POPs exposure are diverse, ranging from endocrine disruption and immune system impairment to developmental and reproductive issues. Chronic exposure to certain POPs has been linked to cancers and other severe health outcomes.
