
Developmental toxicity is defined by any alteration to the normal growth or health (physical and behavioral) of a child. Exposures resulting in developmental problems may occur at pre-conception, prenatal, and post-natal stages. Pregnant individuals and children are at the highest risk of impacts to developmental toxicants.




Cancer is the umbrella term for a disease that is defined by uncontrollable cell growth. Contaminants that are carcinogenic have the capacity to cause cancer or promote its development in any part of the body. Exposure to a carcinogen may result in cancer long after the initial exposure.





The immune system defends the body against infections and disease-causing microorganisms like pathogenic bacteria and viruses. It consists of white blood cells, along with the organs and tissues of the lymphatic system—including the thymus, spleen, tonsils, lymph nodes, lymph vessels, and bone marrow. Immunotoxicity can lead to an underactive or overactive immune response.




The kidneys are two reddish-brown, bean-shaped organs that regulate your body’s fluid levels, maintain blood mineral balances, and filter wastes and toxins from your blood. Kidney toxicity, known as nephrotoxicity or renal toxicity, can impair your body's ability to excrete waste or fluids.



The liver is a large organ whose main function is to detoxify/filter blood from the digestive tract and produce proteins essential for blood clotting and other important functions.


The nervous system is a network of nerve cells and fibers that transmits signals in the body to coordinate actions and sensory information. Humans have both a central nervous system (brain and spinal cord) and a peripheral nervous system (nerves that connect the central nervous system to the rest of the body).


The gastrointestinal system is responsible for the digestion and absorption of nutrients in the body, as well as waste excretion. Disruptions to your gastrointestinal system can cause heartburn, gas, constipation and diarrhea.



The cardiovascular system is responsible for circulating blood throughout the body. Consisting of the heart, arteries, veins, and capillaries, the cardiovascular system connects all cells in the body to the blood system, which delivers essential nutrients and materials as well as removes cell waste and toxins.

Ocular toxicity, or toxic effects on eyes, can result in damage to various parts of the eye and impact vision.

The respiratory system includes the organs essential for gas exchange, specifically between oxygen and carbon dioxide, in humans. The respiratory system includes the airways, lungs, and muscles that take oxygenated air into the body and excrete carbon-dioxide rich air out of the body.

Hematologic toxicity concerns the impact of a contaminant on the blood system. Toxicity to the blood system may impact hematological parameters like hemoglobin, red and white blood cell counts, platelet counts, among others.
