Environmental Health Glossary

A group of naturally occurring fibrous minerals formerly used in construction and insulation. Inhalation of asbestos fibers causes mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer.

The buildup of a chemical substance in an organism's body over time, occurring when absorption exceeds metabolism and excretion.

The increasing concentration of a persistent toxic substance at each successive trophic level in a food chain.

A measurable biological indicator of environmental exposure, disease state, or physiological change, such as blood lead levels or urinary metabolites of pesticides.

A former industrial or commercial property where redevelopment is complicated by the presence or potential presence of hazardous substances or contaminants.

An agent (chemical, physical, or biological) capable of causing cancer. Classifications are maintained by IARC, EPA, and other agencies.

Six common air pollutants regulated by the EPA under NAAQS: ground-level ozone, particulate matter, carbon monoxide, lead, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide.

The quantitative relationship between the amount of exposure to a substance and the resulting health effect.

A chemical that interferes with the body's hormonal system, potentially causing adverse developmental, reproductive, or neurological effects.

The equitable distribution of environmental risks and benefits, ensuring no group bears a disproportionate share of environmental hazards.

The study of the distribution and determinants of health-related states and events in populations, and the application of this study to control health problems.

The route by which a contaminant moves from its source to a receptor (human), including source, transport medium, point of contact, and route of entry (inhalation, ingestion, dermal).

Waste that poses a substantial or potential threat to public health or the environment due to its quantity, concentration, or physical, chemical, or infectious characteristics.

The highest level of a contaminant allowed in drinking water under the Safe Drinking Water Act. Set by the EPA to protect public health.

The rate or frequency of disease occurrence in a population. Used in environmental health to measure the burden of illness from environmental exposures.

An agent that causes permanent changes (mutations) in the DNA of an organism. Many environmental carcinogens are also mutagens.

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, a class of synthetic chemicals that resist degradation and persist in the environment and human body. Called 'forever chemicals.'

Fine particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less, capable of deep lung penetration.

A policy approach that advocates preventive action in the face of uncertainty when there are reasonable grounds for concern about environmental or health harm.

The final step of risk assessment that integrates hazard, dose-response, and exposure information to estimate the probability and severity of health effects in a population.

An organism used to detect health risks to humans by providing early warning of environmental hazards, such as canaries in coal mines or amphibians indicating ecosystem health.

A contaminated location designated by the EPA for cleanup under CERCLA due to the presence of hazardous substances posing a threat to human health or the environment.

An agent that causes malformation or abnormal development in an embryo or fetus. Environmental examples include methylmercury, certain pesticides, and radiation.

The science of studying the harmful effects of substances on living organisms, including the mechanisms of action and the dose-response relationship.

An infectious disease that is transmitted from animals to humans. Many emerging infectious diseases are zoonotic in origin, driven by environmental changes.