Dioxins
Dioxins
Dioxins (/daɪˈɒksɪn/) are a group of chemically-related compounds that are persistent environmental pollutants (POPs). They are mostly by-products of various industrial processes but can also occur naturally.
Etymology
The term "dioxin" is derived from the presence of two oxygen atoms (dioxide) in the basic chemical structure of these compounds.
Types of Dioxins
There are 75 different dioxins, of which 17 are considered to be of significant toxicity, with TCDD (2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin) being the most toxic.
Sources of Dioxins
Dioxins are released into the air from combustion processes such as commercial or municipal waste incineration and from burning fuels (like wood, coal or oil).
Health Effects
Exposure to dioxins can cause a range of health problems such as cancer, reproductive and developmental problems, damage to the immune system, and can interfere with hormones.
Related Terms
- Chloracne: A skin condition that is often the result of exposure to dioxins.
- Agent Orange: A herbicide and defoliant chemical, one of the "tactical use" Rainbow Herbicides, known for its dioxin contamination.
- Bioaccumulation: The accumulation of substances, such as pesticides, or other organic chemicals in an organism.
- Persistent organic pollutant: Organic compounds that are resistant to environmental degradation through chemical, biological, and photolytic processes.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Dioxins
- Wikipedia's article - Dioxins
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