Misconceptions about the Causes of Cancer

Common misconceptions underlie many fears about what causes cancer. Misconceptions about the Causes of Cancer examines the scientific evidence from studies in humans, animal cancer tests, exposures to naturally occurring and synthetic chemicals, and methods used to evaluate and regulate cancer risks. Those wishing to disentangle facts from hype will read about the science showing that: Cancer rates are not soaring in the United States and Canada. Synthetic chemicals at levels found in the environment have not been shown to be an important cause of cancer. Reducing pesticide residues is not an effective way to prevent cancer. Human exposures to potential cancer hazards are not primarily to synthetic chemicals. The toxicology of synthetic chemicals is not different from that of natural chemicals, and natural chemicals make up 99.9% of chemical exposure. High-dose animal cancer tests do not provide enough information to assess human cancer risks at the usual levels of exposure. Pesticides and other synthetic chemicals are not likely to be disrupting hormones. Current regulatory policy of low, hypothetical risks is not effective in advancing public health. Book jacket.