This reference evaluates 314 chemicals, their effects on human health, and organizations that can assist a person with multiple chemical sensitivities (MCS). It is broken into six sections, with the first section explaining and evaluating the chemical, medical, and governmental institutions that develop, treat, and regulate chemicals. Following an alphabetical list of syndromes, diseases, and health conditions suffered as a result of chemical exposure are sections that examine how various chemicals affect parts of the body and list alphabetically the chemical composition of commonly used materials. The source concludes with an alphabetical list of chemicals and a directory of organizations interested in human health and chemical exposure. Though directed at the lay reader, this book provides minimal information, and it is difficult to use for further research. Although there is an extensive bibliography, some of the citations are incomplete. However, the directory of organizations is useful and could be a possible source for people suffering from multiple chemical sensitivities. Recommended, with the above reservations, for large public libraries.
- Jeanine McAdam, Mt. Sinai Medical Ctr. Lib., New York
Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From Booklist
This volume covers 314 chemicals currently in use that are known to have an adverse effect on human health. The book's purpose is to increase general knowledge of chemically induced health problems.
The first section lists symptoms, diseases, and health conditions alphabetically with the chemicals that induce them. For example, under Bladder Cancer are listed benzidine and chloroform. Following this section is a list of common products and their chemical components. Here we learn that paper towels contain formaldehyde and petroleum jelly contains carbon disulfide. The chemical directory that follows lists trade names, government exposure standards, minimum risk levels, symptoms, body area likely to be affected, usages, and other data. References here refer to an extensive bibliography of additional information sources, most of them government publications. A final chapter lists international, national, state, and local environmentally concerned health and public-interest organizations and their publications. A very thorough index completes the work.
Coming to terms with the idea that personal-hygiene products, laundry soap, or the photocopier at work may be adversely affecting one's physical or mental health is difficult, but this title provides good, current information on this topic in an easy-to-use format. Toxics A to Z (Univ. of California, 1991) provides information on more than 100 toxics, including nonchemicals such as radiation, and gives advice on protection and prevention. Hazardous Substances Resource Guide [RBB Ap 15 93] describes more than 1,000 hazardous substances and includes first-aid instructions. The unique contribution of Chemical Exposure is the section on symptoms and diseases and what chemicals can cause them.
See all Editorial Reviews
