Introduction
Environmental pollution is one of contemporary society’s most important challenges since it causes a variety of ailments, including cancer. Carcinogens are chemicals that have the potential to create malignant tumors in both humans and animals. In this paper, I will examine two environmental carcinogens and provide strategies to help minimize them.
Environmental Carcinogens
Asbestos
Asbestos is the first carcinogen to be mentioned. Because of its unique features, including fire resistance and strength, asbestos has been widely employed in buildings and industry. However, it is now known that breathing its fibers can cause cancers such as lung cancer and mesothelioma (15th Report on Carcinogens, n.d.). Its usage in all fields of industry and building should be prohibited to limit the amount of asbestos in the environment. Furthermore, asbestos in structures should be inspected regularly and removed if necessary.
Benzene
The second carcinogen to be discussed is benzene. Benzene is a chemical commonly used to produce plastics, rubber, paints, and other items. Inhaling benzene can lead to a variety of cancers, including blood cancer (Jung et al., 2022). Strong laws and regulations for its usage in industry should be adopted to limit the amount of benzene in the environment. Furthermore, the level of benzene in the air and water should be monitored regularly. If the allowable amount is surpassed, steps should be taken to clean up and enhance the quality of the environment.
Minimization Strategies
To successfully minimize the number of carcinogens in the environment, public knowledge about the dangers of these compounds and their health impacts must be raised. This can be accomplished through public awareness campaigns and educational activities. Furthermore, increased governmental supervision and higher environmental and safety rules and standards are required.
Conclusion
In conclusion, environmental carcinogens pose a serious threat to human health. However, their reduction is possible through banning the use of hazardous substances, conducting regular inspections and controls, and raising public awareness of the harms of these substances. Only through the joint efforts of government, industry, and the public can a safe and healthy environment be ensured for future generations.
References
15th Report on Carcinogens. (n.d.). National Toxicology Program. Web.
Jung, K., Khan, A., Mocharnuk, R., Olivo-Marston, S., & McDaniel, J. T. (2022). Clinical encounter with three cancer patients affected by groundwater contamination at Camp Lejeune: a case series and review of the literature. Journal of Medical Case Reports, 16(1). Web.