Environmental conditons in many parts of the United States, as well as Central and Eastern Europe, have improved dramatically in recent years. However, in certain areas of each of these regions hazardous chemicals persist in the environment. Most of these sites are a legacy of many decades of industrial development, mining, manufacturing and military activities. There is considerable uncertainty about the health risks of these sites, such as a lack of understanding about the spectrum of health effects that could result from exposure to hazardous substances. While there are many differences between the regions, there are also great similarities. Continue reading →