Fish with Silver Linings: An Overview of the Epidemiological Studies Used For Establishing Safe Levels of Exposure to Methylmercury

Ever since the tragedy leading to the discovery of Minamata disease in 1956, there has been concern over methylmercury (CAS Registry Number: 22967-92-6) exposure via contaminated fish and adverse neurodevelopmental effects (e.g., impaired motor skills, language capabilities, behavioral function, etc.), especially during gestation. The scientific community has been investigating the role of anthropogenic sources of mercury at contributing to the levels of methylmercury in fish worldwide, due to the mixed reports on chronic low-level exposures to methylmercury and adverse health effects. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's new cap-and-trade approach for limiting mercury …