Susceptibility to environmental pollutants among minorities

Toxicol Ind Health. 1993 Sep-Oct;9(5):797-820. doi: 10.1177/074823379300900507.

Abstract

Susceptibility to environmental pollutants involves both biological and nonbiological factors. Individuals belonging to minority groups are much more likely to be subject to a number of these factors. This paper examines biological susceptibility of minorities to environmental pollutants and provides specific examples of susceptibility resulting from: genetic makeup; occupation; other factors such as compromised health status, exposure to mixtures of pollutants, substance abuse, and unemployment; and social inequality of access to health care, education, and communication skills. Recommendations are made for specific actions and for additional studies.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Disease Susceptibility / ethnology*
  • Environmental Pollutants / adverse effects*
  • Ethnicity*
  • Humans
  • Occupational Exposure
  • Risk Factors

Substances

  • Environmental Pollutants