These studies have shown inconsistent results and do not provide a clear link between PCB exposure and these health effects.Īlthough high-dose exposure to PCBs may cause chloracne, a rash-like condition, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, headaches and dizziness, severe symptoms like these have only been seen among people with exposure to large amounts of PCBs in the workplace or following accidental consumption. Scientists have looked at PCB exposure as a risk factor for developing disorders of the liver, thyroid, reproductive and immune systems.
PCBs have been found to cause cancer and other health effects in laboratory animals. Some studies of workers suggest that high-level exposure increases the risk of liver cancer. Evidence is limited on PCBs and cancer in humans, but PCBs are classified as probable human carcinogens.Studies have shown behavioral and developmental problems among children whose mothers were either exposed to large amounts of PCBs or regularly ate fish from contaminated waters during pregnancy.While these studies are limited, they included buildings that generally have much higher levels than those seen in the pilot schools. Existing scientific studies have not shown PCB exposures from building materials to cause health effects in building occupants. The potential for health effects from PCBs, as with other chemicals, depend on how much, how often, and how long someone is exposed. What are the potential health effects from exposure to PCBs? Nor can they determine the likelihood of adverse health effects from PCB exposure. These tests are useful for research but they cannot determine when, where, or for how long a person was exposed to PCBs. Laboratory tests can measure PCB levels in blood, fat tissue and breast milk.
Building occupants may be exposed by breathing in PCB-containing dust or vapors, accidental hand to mouth contact, or by skin contact with PCB materials.Ĭan a medical test determine exposure to PCBs?
The pilot study showed that the replacement of PCB lighting ballasts and associated fixtures was a successful remedial measure for lowering PCB levels in indoor air where concentrations exceeded the US EPA air guidance values. Old lighting ballasts may contain PCB oil and as the ballasts age the PCB oil can leak onto nearby surfaces or produce vapors in the air.
Results of the 3-year pilot study identified lighting ballasts in older fluorescent lighting fixtures, in addition to caulk, as a source of PCBs in the pilot school buildings. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to measure indoor polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) levels in NYC school buildings, identify PCB containing caulk and other potential PCB sources and determine the most effective ways to reduce exposures. In the News: NYC Pilot Study on PCBs in Schools In 2013, New York City (NYC) completed a pilot study with the U.S.