Why are Polychlorinated biphenyls deleterious to health?
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) have been produced since 1930 to 1977. They have certain properties that make them highly desirable for industrial applications like in capacitors, transformers, coolants, lubricants, electrical and hydraulic equipment, paints, dyes, pigments, paperless carbon paper, rubber products, and shockingly in pesticides. So as the real truth is revealed they may be present throughout the atmosphere and soil in amounts that may affect our health. Fish and green leafy vegetables may accumulate PCBs in their tissues in significant amounts. DDT (Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane) and PCBs have been found in vegetables.
This is why the concept of organic foods is being promoted, however, is this really economically feasible for all individuals in the socio-economic ladder? PCBs have also been known to contaminate water secondary to hydraulic equipment, pesticides, and other modalities used in the past. In this section we will review the harmful effects of these chemicals that appear to be non-degradable and persist in the atmosphere, soil, oceans, lakes, and rivers for years.
What are their possible effects?
PCBs are classified as Group 1 carcinogens by the IARC working group and can possibly contribute towards Melanoma, Breast cancer, Prostate cancer, Testicular cancer, Seminoma, Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma, etc.
People can consume them in their bodies through contaminated water, air, dermal exposure (contaminated buildings), and food sources.
PCBs accumulate in the food chain and aggregate in the foliage of above the ground plants and in small organisms and fish.
These PCBs are lipophilic, meaning that they have a high affinity for fat and can stay stored in the fatty tissues for a long time.
PCB-153 has had an association with Diabetes prevalence.
In animal studies, PCB A-1221 has been associated with hormonal abnormalities in rats.
Prenatal exposures to PCBs can affect birth weight and the reaction to vaccinations and resistance to infections.
PCB exposure can also affect enamel development in children and gingival health.
PCBs can have a negative effect on Endocrine and Thyroid health.
PCBs may also have a role in immunological disorders like Rheumatoid Arthritis.
PCBs can also play a role in Sensorineural hearing loss.
In the United States, PCB Congeners (153, 138, and 180) contributed to 65% of the burden of PCBs.
We at Dr. Priya's Kitchen are eager to keep you well informed about your health and safety. I would encourage you to stay connected to your healthcare professional and stay updated on health hazards that exist around you. As always, I wish that you keep a focus on your health and live long and strong!
