Accession Number : ADA115053

Title :   Position Paper: The Toxic Effects of Chronic Exposure to Low Levels of Carbon Dioxide.

Descriptive Note : Interim rept.

Corporate Author : NAVAL SUBMARINE MEDICAL RESEARCH LAB GROTON CT

Report Date : 19 JAN 1982

Pagination or Media Count : 46

Abstract : Numerous patrol studies have provided a sizable data base of levels of CO2 exposure and health problems encountered by Naval nuclear submariners. Humans have been exposed to a variety of concentrations of CO2 for chronic periods of time aboard submarines, as well as in laboratory environments. Mean data, PICO2 = 10 torr and 40 days, collectively represent this wide variety of CO2 exposures. >Physiological responses to the CO2 environment were repeatedly documented, but toxic effects were not apparent.< Human exposures were safely conducted in atmospheres containing up to 5 torr CO2, for up to 90 days. Such exposures are therefore considered safe at this time. Animal studies showed that chronic, low-level, CO2 exposures caused changes of the bone content of CO2, the bone content of calcium, the soft tissue content of calcium, and histological changes of the lung. These changes were found to be completely reversible upon discontinuance of the animal's exposure to CO2. >The extrapolation of the animal data to humans is a current problem in the advancement of our understanding of the effects of CO2 on humans.<

Descriptors :   *Carbon dioxide, *Toxicity, Physiological effects, Exposure(Physiology), Low level, Submarines, History, Humans, Laboratory animals, Dosage, Blood gases, Electrolytes(Physiology)

Subject Categories : TOXICOLOGY

Distribution Statement : APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE

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