Society of Toxicology
1767 BUSINESS CENTER DRIVE, SUITE 302, RESTON, VA 20190-5332
Telephone: (703) 438-3115 Fax: (703) 438-3113 E-mail: sothq@toxicology.orgMEMORANDUM DATE: March 1, 1999
TO: The SOT Membership
FROM: Steve Cohen, Jay Goodman, Dan Acosta and Mike McClain
SUBJECT: Chemophobia IncreasesWe are concerned by the unnecessary alarm that can be caused by the increasing spread of misinformation on alleged health or environmental risks from chemicals. The result, is an increase in chemophobia, which can have negative effects on our economy, quality of life and research funding. For example, we encourage you to visit the following two web sites: "All You Can Eat" (http://www.foodnews.org) and "Scorecard" (http://www.scorecard.org) so that you can gain insight as to what is happening and judge the information for yourself.
We trust you will agree that it is important for toxicologists to become more knowledgeable about the misinformation on risk from trace chemical exposures that is being presented to the public. To be consistent with SOT's long range initiatives, and for the benefit of the profession and the public at large, all SOT members must become more involved. We urge you to respond publicly to counter such misinformation. Write a commentary for a journal (e.g., Toxicological Sciences) or your local newspaper, TV or radio stations. Additionally, consider communicating with state and federal legislators and local civic organizations. Remember, you are the real experts. The long-term consequences of inaction on our part will be that misinformation and chemophobia will prevail. In the absence of expert toxicological input, important but scientifically inappropriate decisions may be made which will negatively impact all of society. The time has come for SOT members to become more informed and involved.
Thank you for your consideration and we look forward to seeing you in New Orleans in a couple of weeks.
Best regards.
Comments on this posting?
Click here to post a public comment on the Trash Talk Bulletin Board.
Click here to send a private comment to the Junkman.