toxic exposures

Five toxic chemicals in air may raise, by 3 to 6 times, risk of ALS

Exposure to certain toxic airborne chemicals used in industry significantly increases — by up to six times — the odds of developing amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a study suggests. Findings underscore the importance of surveillance programs testing exposure to these airborne pollutants, especially among populations at risk. The study,…

ALS Patients Have Higher Lead Levels in Blood, Review Study Finds

People with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) have significantly higher blood levels of lead, a toxic heavy metal, than those without the disease, a review study found. While the findings strengthen accumulating evidence of a link between lead exposure and the risk of developing ALS, they do not definitively prove…

ALS, Gulf War Illness Caused by Toxic Exposures, Report Says

A report from the Boston University School of Public Health shows that Gulf War Illness is a result of exposure to pesticides and other toxins used in the Gulf War. The report also notes that in addition to Gulf War Illness, deployed Gulf War veterans suffer higher rates of stroke, brain cancer and…