Are people who eat extraordinarily large quantities of fish at risk?

Pregnant women who eat large predator species of fish (swordfish, tilefish, king mackerel or shark) may put their unborn children at risk. This is because the developing nervous system of a fetus is especially susceptible to effects of high methylmercury levels. The Environmental Protection Agency provides current advice on fish consumption from fresh water lakes and streams. Check with your state or local health department to see if there are special advisories on fish caught from waters in your local area.