The problem of chemical exposures in developing countries is particularly severe,
and exacerbates other hazards associated with poverty. A World Bank report (2002)
reviewed the existing scientific literature on the relationship between poverty and
exposure to toxics in developing countries. The report concludes that toxics are a
significant and growing threat to health among the poor in developing countries.
Resulting in part from toxic exposures, chronic diseases are emerging as an
increasingly important source of illness in developing countries. According to World
Health Organisation estimates, the burden from chronic disease in developing
countries is expected to exceed the burden from infectious disease by 2020
(Goldman and Tran 2002).