An example of an integrated approach for health and environmental risk assessment: the case of organotin compounds Available to Purchase

Because environmental decision making based solely on simple compilation of toxicological data on either wildlife or humans in isolation can not give effective answers about the nature and levels of risk, an integrated approach for risk assessment of adverse effects of chemicals is required. Integration of available information on health and environmental effects, from in vitro to the level of humans, across various species, across different endpoints, and in combination with integrated exposure data, permits enhanced estimation of the potential risks posed by various agents. Mechanistic and quantitative consideration are the keys in this process. A framework for integrated risk assessment has been proposed by an international workgroup. The value and utility of the integrated approach is shown using the example of organotin compounds.