List of IARC Group 2A Agents - Probably carcinogenic to humans

List of IARC Group 2A Agents - Probably Carcinogenic to Humans is a classification used by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), which is part of the World Health Organization (WHO). This category is used to list agents, mixtures, and exposure circumstances that are considered by IARC to be probable causes of cancer in humans. This classification suggests that there is limited evidence of carcinogenicity in humans and sufficient evidence of carcinogenicity in experimental animals. Group 2A is one step below Group 1, "Carcinogenic to humans", indicating a lower level of evidence or certainty regarding the agent's carcinogenic potential.

Criteria for Classification

The IARC evaluates scientific evidence to classify agents according to their carcinogenic risk to humans. The criteria for classifying an agent in Group 2A include:

• Limited evidence of carcinogenicity in humans. This means that there is some evidence linking the agent to cancer, but the evidence is not conclusive.
• Sufficient evidence of carcinogenicity in animals. Studies in animals have shown that the agent can cause cancer, providing support for the possibility that the agent could also cause cancer in humans.
• Strong evidence that the agent can alter the metabolism or genetic material of cells in ways that are known to be associated with the development of cancer.

Examples of Group 2A Agents

The list of Group 2A agents is extensive and includes a variety of substances, mixtures, and exposure circumstances. Some notable examples include:

• Acrylamide: A chemical used in industrial processes and the production of polyacrylamide. It is also formed in certain foods during high-temperature cooking.
• Dichloromethane (Methylene chloride): A solvent used in paint strippers, pharmaceuticals, and in the production of film.
• Red Meat: Refers to all types of mammalian muscle meat, such as beef, veal, pork, lamb, mutton, horse, and goat.
• Indoor emissions from household combustion of coal: Emissions produced from burning coal for cooking and heating indoors without adequate ventilation.
• Ultraviolet (UV) radiation: While UV radiation as a whole is classified as Group 1, specific wavelengths and exposure circumstances fall under Group 2A, indicating probable carcinogenicity under certain conditions.

Implications of Classification

The classification of an agent as Group 2A by the IARC is significant for public health policies, regulatory decisions, and occupational safety standards. It serves as a warning to both the public and professionals about substances that should be handled with caution. Regulatory bodies may use this information to set exposure limits, require protective measures for workers, and inform the public about ways to reduce their exposure.

Updating of the List

The IARC continuously reviews and updates its classifications based on the latest scientific evidence. As new data become available, substances can be re-evaluated and potentially reclassified. This dynamic process ensures that the IARC's classifications reflect current understanding and evidence regarding the carcinogenic potential of different agents.

List of IARC Group 2A Agents - Probably carcinogenic to humans Resources
Need Help Finding a Doctor? WikiMD's DocFinder can help find general and specialist physicians.	Latest articles Most recent articles Ongoing trials.