Environmental Toxins: Toxins Left by Hurricane Pose Threat

According to the Disaster News Network, arsenic and other toxins left by last year's hurricane season could have health consequences for years to come. The highest arsenic concentrations in Mississippi are 27 times that of acceptable levels set by the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality. Chemist Wilma Subra tested the arsenic levels and said of her findings: "There is a need for removal and proper disposal of the contaminated sediment/sludge in people's homes, yards, school yards, churches, etc."

Arsenic is a river-bottom sediment that is a known carcinogen and teratogen. Exposure to arsenic can lead to skin and lung cancer, as well as causing irritation. Subra also stated avoiding exposure is very difficult. "The sediment/sludge is a layer deposited on all surfaces, readily available, and easily dispersed into the air. Human exposure pathways from skin contact, and inhalation and ingestion are hard to impossible to avoid."