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Framework for Cumulative Risk Assessment Released

Release Date: 05/29/2003
Contact Information:


Suzanne Ackerman 202-564-7819/[email protected]


(05/29/03) To advance the application of sound science to policy-making, EPA has released the “Framework for Cumulative Risk Assessment,” an integrated approach to environmental risk assessment. Cumulative risk assessment is the analysis of the combined risks to human health or the environment from multiple pollutants transmitted through multiple pathways of exposure. This holistic approach differs from the traditional study of one pollutant’s effect on one population through one medium (air, water, land), in recognizing that people and ecosystems are impacted by a number of stressors simultaneously through different pathways. The Framework identifies key terms and basic elements of the assessment process and provides a flexible structure for addressing relevant scientific issues. EPA risk assessors will use the Framework as a basis for future guidance as EPA continues with assessment and regulatory activities. The Framework document is available on the Internet at: https://cfpub.epa.gov/ncea/raf.