With the growing prospect for germ warfare, environmental and occupational neurotoxicology has come center stage. This is a multidisciplinary science dealing with the study of chemical compounds found in the environment or workplace that have deleterious effects on the nervous system and behavior of humans. The ultimate goal of this science is the understanding of their toxicity with the aim of preventing illness and suffering. Prior to the original publication of this work in 1991, this subject has never been viewed as a distinct body of knowledge; over ten years later it remains the premier text of its field.
An encyclopedic compendium of over thirty years exhaustive research written by an expert in the fields of occupational health, environment, and toxicology, "Foundations of Environmental and Occupational Neurotoxicology" is a pioneering work. Jos A. Valciukas, in building bridges between several academic and medical disciplines, explains how health and human behavior may be adversely affected by neurotoxins. After introducing his study with a history of environmental and occupational neurotoxicology, he discusses, in Chapter 1, "Fundamentals & Techniques"-the components of the nervous system and how a clinical examination is conducted. Chapter 2, "Neurotoxic Chemical Compounds & Drugs," classifies the various neurotoxic substances. In Chapter 3, "Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Occupational Health," the author examines how neurotoxic agents are absorbed and excreted. In Chapter 4, entitled "Methods of Data Analysis," he assesses surveys, data management, and the determination of toxic causation. Chapter 5, "The Targets of Neurotoxicity," contains an examination of the effects of toxins on brain development, the auditory and visual systems, and emotions and moods. Chapter 6, entitled "Counfounders & Current Issues," discusses relevant issues of senile dementia, alcoholism, smoking, and neurotoxic agents of chemical warfare.
"What is unique about this book is that Dr. Valciukas has consolidated this information and discussed the principles and pitfalls governing the assessment of neurotoxicology in the workplace This book is highly recommended to those who wish to expand their knowledge beyond their area of expertise into aspects of environmental and occupational neurotoxicology..."
-"Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health"
Jos A. Valciukas is director of the Clinical Psychology Internship Program at the Lincoln Medical and Mental Health Center in the Bronx, New York. He is the author of "Forensic Neuropsychology: Conceptual Foundations and Clinical Practice," and is a former managing editor of the journal "Environmental Research."