Project Summary (1995-2000)

This project consists of two major studies focusing on the potential health effects caused by exposures to certain organic solvents commonly found at hazardous waste sites. The first study is a follow-up epidemiological study of occupational workers exposed to styrene. The second is a prospective study that evaluates the relationship between chronic exposure to perchloroethylene (PCE) and relevant biomarkers. The biomarkers being evaluated include symptoms, mood, and responses that reflect central nervous system (CNS) functions, as well as more objective physiologic effects including peripheral (PNS), autonomic (ANS), and sensory (SNS) nervous system responses. The project also incorporates the potential interaction between ethanol consumption and styrene exposure.