Glossary Category:

Risk factor

Something that increases the chance of developing a disease. Some examples of risk factors for Cancer are age, a family history of certain cancers, use of tobacco products, being exposed to radiation or certain chemicals, infection with certain viruses or bacteria, and certain genetic changes.

Soot

Soot is a byproduct of the incomplete burning of organic (carbon-containing) materials, such as wood, fuel oil, plastics, and household refuse. The fine black or brown powder that makes up Soot may contain a number of carcinogens, including Arsenic, Cadmium, and chromium.

Styrene

Styrene is a colorless, flammable liquid, which has a sweet odor and is highly volatile. Styrene is widely used to make plastics and rubber, which are used to manufacture a variety of products, such as insulation, pipes, automobile parts, printing cartridges, food containers, and carpet backing.

Thorium

Thorium is a naturally occurring radioactive metal that is found in soil, rock, and water. It is formed by the radioactive decay of uranium. Minerals such as monazite, thorite, and thorianite are rich in Thorium and may be mined for the metal. Thorium has coloring properties that have made it useful in ceramic glazes. Thorium…

Trichloroethylene (TCE)

Trichloroethylene (TCE) is a volatile, colorless liquid organic chemical. TCE does not occur naturally and is created by chemical synthesis. It is used primarily to make refrigerants and other hydrofluorocarbons and as a degreasing solvent for metal equipment. TCE is also used in some household products, such as cleaning wipes, aerosol cleaning products, tool cleaners,…

Vinyl Chloride

Vinyl Chloride is a colorless gas that burns easily. It does not occur naturally and must be produced industrially for its commercial uses. Vinyl Chloride is used primarily to make polyvinyl chloride (PVC); PVC is used to make a variety of plastic products, including pipes, wire and cable coatings, and packaging materials. Vinyl Chloride is…

Wood Dust

Wood Dust is created when machines or tools are used to cut or shape wood. High amounts of Wood Dust are produced in sawmills, and in the furniture-making, cabinet-making, and carpentry industries. Individuals who use machinery or tools to cut or shape wood are exposed to Wood Dust. When the dust is inhaled, it is…