Running Head: RISK AND BENEFIT OF TRANSGENIC ORGANISM
A short benefit summary describing the risk and benefit of transgenic organism to Canada in medical application. It is an assessment report describing an analysis that results in quantitative estimates of the net effect on fetal neurodevelopment in children of maternal consumption of commercial fish, as measured by verbal development and the net effect of eating commercial fish on coronary heart disease and stroke in the general population. Effects with respect to each of these health endpoints have been associated in the scientific literature with methyl mercury exposure. It primarily occurs through fish consumption and with the consumption of fish and of omega-3 fatty acids, which are found in fish. On the other hand the consumption of Omega-3 Fatty Acids for certain Neurodevelopment and Cardiovascular has been seen as a risk. (Shuren, 2009).
Fish provides protein, which is low in saturated fat and is rich in many micronutrients. It also can be a source of certain omega-3 fatty acids. As the Institute of Medicine of the National Academies of Science (IOM) noted in a recent report in the past several years, research has implicated seafood, particularly its contribution of EPA and DHA [two omega-3 fatty acids], in various health benefits identified for the developing fetus and infants, and also for adults, including those at risk for cardiovascular disease.'' (Institute of Medicine, Committee on Nutrient Relationships in Seafood: Selections to Balance Benefits and Risks. Seafood Choices: Balancing Benefits and Risk. 2006, National Academy of Sciences, at 1). However, as a result of natural processes and human activity, aquatic food sources, including fish, can contain methyl mercury, which has been linked to adverse health consequences. Because of the presence of methyl mercury in fish, FDA and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued an advisory to consumers. (Shuren, 2009).
The methodology...