Persistent Organic Pollutants

Concern is growing worldwide over the long-term health effects of chemicals known as persistent organic pollutants.

Persistent organic pollutants such as PCBs, DDT, chlordane and several other pesticides are toxic. They accumulate and remain in the tissue of humans and animals and other ecosystems for a long period. This bio-accumulation of toxic chemicals increases the risk for diseases such as cancer. It also contributes to abnormalities in brain development and in the reproductive systems of animals and human beings. For example, daughters of mothers exposed to DDT and DDE may have fertility problems. One study found that for every 10 milligrams per liter of DDT exposure in the mother, the daughter's pregnancy probability dropped 32 percent.

Worldwide, there is a concern over contamination of the environment with persistent organic pollutants, which is not contained within a country's boundaries. These pollutants often are transported long distances via air, water and migratory species. Let your senators and representatives know you are concerned about persistent organic pollutants and want the U.S. government to work with global initiatives to control these toxic pollutants.