Chemization and human health

A survey of the relationships between chemization and human health is presented From among approximately 50 000 chemicals being used, some 5 to 10% represent potential hazards. Classifications and transformations of chemicals in abiotic and biotic conditions, characteristics of their effects according to toxicological and ecological-toxicological criteria (physical-chemical and chemical properties, levels, necessary for the induction of biological and adverse effects, conditions of the exposure of humans and ecological systems) are being dealt with. Attention is devoted to the International Programme on Chemical Safety from the aspects of coping with chemical hazards on a global scale. The criteria of "non-safety" and "safety" of chemicals, prognostics of chemical hazards and the needs of further knowledge (quantity and "fate" of chemicals in the environment, their effects on man and ecological systems and their interaction) are discussed. In the conclusion, the need of international unification of criteria for introducing new chemicals, being of great importance not only from the aspect of the population's health protection--but also from that of facilitating foreign trade in chemical products, is stressed.