ABSTRACT
Background Dioxin is the name generally given to a family of 75 different chemical compounds with a similar chemical structure and a set of biological effects, though their potency varies widely. Dioxins are organochlorines or compounds formed when a chlorine molecule binds with a carbon molecule during combustion or in some type of industrial production process. Dioxins cause cancer in humans and animals. Animal tests also show interference with reproduction, development and immune system function at low doses. This raises substantial concern about current human exposure levels.
