Risk communication of endocrine-disrupting chemicals: improving knowledge translation and transfer.
Public perception of the negative effects of endocrine-disrupting chemicals appears to be higher compared to other chemical pollutants, due to (1) chronic, low-probability effects, and (2) uncertainties about which biological effects may be relevant for human health. Individuals, both expert and lay public, require credible, trustworthy, and understandable information about the scientific evidence of endocrine-disrupting chemicals in order to make informed risk decisions. The creation of a dedicated web site, http://www.emcom.ca, as a tool for knowledge translation and transfer provides the general public with access to scientific experts and bridges the gap between experts and nonexperts through a two-way, interactive communications approach. By obtaining accurate and credible information, individuals can make better-informed decisions concerning endocrine-disrupting chemicals.
Tyshenko
Michael G
MG
McLaughlin Centre for Population Health Risk Assessment, Institute of Population Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. mtyshenk@uottawa.ca
Phillips
Karen P
KP
Mehta
Michael
M
Poirier
Roger
R
Leiss
William
W
D052244:Endocrine Disruptors / Q000009:adverse effects; D004781:Environmental Exposure / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006266:Health Education; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D007255:Information Services / Q000592:standards*; D020407:Internet; D011639:Public Opinion; D012307:Risk Factors
D052244:Endocrine Disruptors