Implementing Hormetic Effects in the Risk Assessment Process: Differentiating Beneficial and Adverse Hormetic Effects in the RfD Derivation Process

Author: Calabrese Edward J.   Baldwin Linda A.  

Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

ISSN: 1080-7039

Source: Human and Ecological Risk Assessment, Vol.5, Iss.5, 1999-10, pp. : 965-971

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Abstract

Hormetic effects have been purported to be both beneficial and adverse. The decision of whether an effect is adverse or beneficial can have important implications for public health and risk assessment. A functional approach is proposed for determining the types of responses available for the incorporation of hormesis in the RfD process. These response categories include: (1) beneficial; (2) adverse; and (3) either beneficial or adverse depending on specific circumstances. Examples of endpoints in each category are presented and discussed. Other issues affecting the RfD process include: (1) the integration of multiple hormetic responses; (2) the importance of endpoint selection in determining the type of hormetic response; and (3) the assumption of hormesis when responses are unobservable due to low background response in controls.