Dioxin

Dioxins are a family of highly toxic chemical compounds that are harmful to health. They can cause problems with reproduction, development, and the immune system. They can also disrupt hormones and lead to cancer[1][2][4]. Dioxins, which are known as persistent environmental pollutants (POPs), can remain in the environment for many years[2][4].

Sources of Dioxins

Dioxins are mainly by-products of industrial processes but can also result from natural processes, such as volcanic eruptions and forest fires[1][2][4]. They are unwanted by-products of many manufacturing processes including smelting, chlorine bleaching of paper pulp, and the manufacture of some herbicides and pesticides[4]. Additionally, dioxins can be produced through burning processes, such as backyard burning and commercial or municipal waste incineration, the use of fuels, such as wood, coal, or oil, and the dismantling and recycling of electronic products[2][5].

Exposure to Dioxins

Exposure to dioxins increases the risk of cancer and some developmental and reproductive problems[5]. Dioxins can pass from a person to a fetus during pregnancy and to a baby through breastfeeding, which could lead to neurodevelopmental problems[5]. The risks depend on a variety of factors, including the level of exposure, when the exposure occurred, and the length and frequency of exposure[5].

Health Effects

Dioxins are highly toxic and can cause cancer, reproductive and developmental problems, damage to the immune system, and can interfere with hormones[1][2][4]. Exposure to dioxins has been linked to various adverse effects, including congenital disabilities, pregnancy loss, decreased fertility, reduced sperm counts and low testosterone levels, endometriosis, diabetes, learning disabilities, immune system suppression, lung problems, and skin disorders[5].

Reducing Exposure

Ways of avoiding dioxin exposure include trimming any fat from meats, consuming a varied diet, and avoiding backyard burning[5]. Trimming fat from meat and consuming low-fat dairy products may decrease the exposure to dioxin compounds[4]. A balanced diet (including adequate amounts of fruits, vegetables, and cereals) will help to avoid excessive exposure from a single source[4].

Regulation and Reduction Efforts

Strict regulatory controls on major industrial sources of dioxin have reduced emissions into the air by 90 percent, compared to levels in 1987[1]. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other bodies have reduced the production of dioxin levels in the U.S. by working with industry to ban products containing dioxin and to curb dioxin emissions[1]. The World Health Organization (WHO) has established a Code of Practice for the Prevention and Reduction of Dioxin and Dioxin-like PCB Contamination in Foods and Feed, which gives guidance to national and regional authorities on preventive measures[4].

Citations:

[1] https://www.niehs.nih.gov/health/topics/agents/dioxins

[2] https://www.epa.gov/dioxin/learn-about-dioxin

[3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dioxins_and_dioxin-like_compounds

[4] https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/dioxins-and-their-effects-on-human-health

[5] https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/17685