Could this indiscriminate use of nanomaterials lead to increased cases of cancer in coming years?
We have no assurance. Carcinogenic effects of nanomaterials, if they occur, might take 20-30 years to manifest in humans. Even if tested on animals, it takes two-three years to get the results. Hence, anti-nanotech groups are calling for government regulatory control over the industry. Is there any regulation governing nanotechnology? At this point there is no regulation to govern nanotechnology. Europe has just begun talking about it. Some environmental groups such as the us- based Natural Resources Defense Council are lobbying for products to carry labels informing consumers that they contain nanoparticles, while others are demanding more research on the health effects before they are introduced in the market. Are developing countries at greater risk than the developed ones? I think they are. Developed countries like the us have strict liability provisions. This means, a product seller is liable to any person who falls sick after using the product. If the product does not put any dis
