PCBs can cause a variety of adverse health effects. PCBs have been documented to cause cancer in animals, as well as other adverse effects to the immune system, reproductive system, nervous system, and endocrine system. PCBs can persist in the environment and bioaccumulate. Bioaccumulation refers to the accumulation of substances, such as PCBs, in a person. Bioaccumulation occurs when a person absorbs a toxic substance at a rate greater than that at which the substance is lost. Thus, the greater the risk of chronic poisoning, even if environmental levels of PCB are not very high. Exposure to these PCBs may occur as a result of their release from the caulk into the air, and exposure to indoor dust, surrounding surfaces and soil through direct contact.

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