Manganese in gasoline

This report responds to a resolution that asked the American Medical Associ ation (AMA) to take action to reduce potential health risks from the use of methylcyclopentaidenyl manganese tricarbonyl (MMT) in gasoline. Informatio n for this report was derived from a search of the MEDLINE database and ref erences listed in pertinent articles, as well as through communications wit h medical and public health experts. Based on this information the AMA Coun cil on Scientific Affairs determined that there is insufficient scientific evidence to assess the public health impact of MMT use, While limited evide nce indicates that general-population exposures to manganese from the use o f MMT in gasoline are low, more research is needed to determine possible he alth effects from long-term, low-dose exposures to MMT and its combustion p roducts. Until such data are available, educational and informational strat egies should be developed to improve public awareness of the health and env ironmental issues surrounding MMT use.