The available studies are summarized by the Working Group,
with particular regard to the qualitative aspects discussed
below. In general, numerical findings are indicated as
they appear in the original report; units are converted
when necessary for easier comparison. The Working Group
may conduct additional analyses of the published data
and use them in their assessment of the evidence; the
results of such supplementary analyses are given in square
brackets. When an important aspect of a study that directly
impinges on its interpretation should be brought to the
attention of the reader, a Working Group comment is given
in square brackets.
The scope of the IARC Monographs programme has
expanded beyond chemicals to include complex mixtures,
occupational exposures, physical and biological agents,
lifestyle factors and other potentially carcinogenic exposures.
Over time, the structure of a Monograph has evolved
to include the following sections:
1. Exposure data
2. Studies of
cancer in humans
3. Studies of
cancer in experimental animals
4. Mechanistic
and other relevant data
5. Summary
6. Evaluation
and rationale
In addition, a section of General Remarks at the front
of the volume discusses the reasons the agents were scheduled
for evaluation and some key issues the Working Group encountered
during the meeting.
This part of the Preamble discusses the types of evidence
considered and summarized in each section of a Monograph,
followed by the scientific criteria that guide the evaluations.
Posted 23 January 2006
