Postscript: science and public policy on synthetic vitreous fibers

Rapid advances are being made in our understanding of the interaction of airborne fibers with biological tissues. It is possible to reduce human exposures and potential risk to lung cancer and fibrosis if current science and models are fully utilized. However, the criteria used by IARC and NTP in their cancer classifications have not kept pace with current science and, in fact, remain entrenched in the scientific vagaries present in the 1960's. As long as public policy cannot keep pace with contemporary scientific understanding, we are doomed to a world of exaggerated risks, inappropriate regulations, misguided priorities, inadequate funding for social and environmental programs, mass anxiety, and skepticism about scientific research.