Effects of Climate Change on Cancers, Fungal Diseases and Mycotoxins

Mycotoxins: naturally occurring toxins produced by certain molds (fungi of the genus Aspergillus, Fusarium and Penicillium).

Some important mycotoxins: Aflatoxins (AF) - produced by Aspergillus flavus, occurs in soil, decaying vegetation, hay, and grains. Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is the most potent known natural carcinogen. Other important mycotoxins: Fumonisin B1 (FB1) and Ochratoxin A (OTA).

Mycotoxins enter the food chain as a result of infection of crops before or after harvest.

Exposure to mycotoxins is typically by eating contaminated foods or from animals that are fed contaminated feed.

Crops that are frequently affected:

Ø Cereals

Ø Oilseeds (soybean, peanut, sunflower and cotton seeds)

Ø Spices

Ø Tree nuts (pistachio, almond, walnut, coconut and Brazil nut)

Effects on human health: hepatotoxic, carcinogenic, teratogenic, immunosuppressive, and nephrotoxic. Symptoms appear quickly and, if exposure continues, the outcome may be fatal.