Exposure to PCBs can occur through ingestion, inhalation, or skin contact. The most common sources of exposure are food, contaminated air, and soil. PCBs can also be released into the environment from spills and leaks from electrical transformers and capacitors, and from disposal sites.
PCBs can accumulate in the body over time and can have a variety of adverse health effects, including:
* Increased risk of cancer: PCBs have been classified as probable human carcinogens by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). PCBs have been linked to an increased risk of several types of cancer, including liver cancer, lung cancer, and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
* Developmental disorders: PCBs can cross the placenta and can have adverse effects on fetal development. Exposure to PCBs has been linked to neurodevelopmental disorders, such as cognitive deficits, behavioral problems, and autism spectrum disorder.
* Immune system suppression: PCBs can suppress the immune system and make people more susceptible to infections.
* Endocrine disruption: PCBs can disrupt the endocrine system and can cause a variety of problems, including reproductive disorders, thyroid dysfunction, and obesity.
* Liver damage: PCBs can damage the liver and cause liver cirrhosis and liver cancer.
* Skin disorders: PCBs can cause skin rashes, acne, and other skin problems.
The effects of exposure to PCBs can vary depending on the level of exposure, the duration of exposure, and the individual's age and health status. Children and fetuses are particularly vulnerable to the effects of PCBs.
There is no cure for PCB exposure, but there are treatments for some of the health effects that can be caused by exposure to PCBs. These treatments include surgery, chemotherapy, and medication.