The use of decision-theoretic approach in regulating toxicity

This paper presents a general decision model for quantitative risk analysis to help in solving the problem of setting the optimal exposure level of a potential carcinogen in regulatory decision-making. This model consists of a probability function and two loss functions. The probability function describes the dose-response relationship for a potential carcinogen at various exposure levels. The two loss functions include the cost of using a potential carcinogen, e.g., health loss, and the cost of not using the compound, e.g., economic loss. Using the principle of minimum expected loss, a fundamental formula for setting the optimal beneficial dose level is derived. The formula equates the probability function to a ratio of loss functions. The general form of loss functions is described in the paper. Under certain conditions, the current approach for quantitative risk assessment is a special situation of this general model.