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In 2002, over 2.3 million poisoning cases were reported to U.S. Poison Control Centers. Over 92% of these exposures occurred in our homes during the peak hours of 4 and 10 p.m. Children under the age of six were involved in more than 50% of these exposures. When accidents happen or products are misused, product safety testing data helps poison control centers and emergency room doctors understand which exposures are actually harmful and how to treat patients in time to prevent serious consequences.
*Source: American Association of Poison Control Centers
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 Even the most sophisticated technology cannot mimic the complicated interactions occurring among cells, tissues, and organs in a living body. Laboratory animals are essential in many areas of biomedical research because they have organs and body systems similar to humans and other animals and thus are often susceptible to the same diseases we are. The data derived from research on these animals can thus be applied to humans and other animals. |
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 Quality research would be impossible if the animals involved in the study were not well cared for. In order to ensure the welfare of animals used in research, there are strict rules and guidelines for the care of each species of laboratory animal. Researchers are only allowed to conduct studies involving animals if they can prove that no alternative would produce accurate results, and must follow established guidelines for the care, housing, and enrichment of the animals in their care. |
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 | Are researchers using more and more animals every year? |  | The number of animals used in research has actually declined in the past 20 years. As technology advances, researchers are able to rely on computer models and other methods instead of animal testing. Some estimates show a reduction in animal use as high as 50 percent. Since 1967, the number of cats used in research has dropped 66 percent. |
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Importance
