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Study finds Chemical Risks in Your Home

A recent study suggests we have much to learn about our exposure to pollution. While most people assume our biggest pollution threat comes from outside sources, the cause may actually be closer to home. Many seemingly safe household products contain chemicals that have been shown to cause health problems. These household products range from plastics, detergents, and pesticides to children's toys and common cosmetics.

The study, conducted by the Silent Spring Institute, measured chemical concentration in the bodies and homes of 120 subjects. The chemicals tested have been identified as compounds which mimic and disrupt hormone function. On average, 20 chemicals were found in each household.

While much is still unknown about the health effects of many household products, several have been linked to health risks, including cancer and disruption of hormone and reproductive systems. Other chemicals are known to aggravate asthma or cause skin, eye, and airway irritations. Many more chemicals found in typical household products have simply not been tested at all for possible health risks.

Among the chemicals commonly found in households were phthalates, a plastic ingredient used in children's toys, detergents, cosmetics, and perfumes. Studies have linked phthalates to reproductive defects, including premature breast development in girls, male genital defects, and reduced sperm quality. Phthalates may also be linked to breast cancer, even if only exposed to small doses.

In January 2009, AB1108 took effect in California, restricting the use of phthalates in children's toys. The bill specifically prohibits the manufacture, sale, and distribution of toys and child care articles which contain certain types of phthalates.

In opposition to AB1108, industry groups argued that there is a lack of conclusive proof linking all phthalates to health problem. However, shouldn't we err on the side of caution before exposing the public to potentially harmful chemicals? This is especially important when the chemicals in question are marketed to vulnerable groups, like pregnant women and children. We should require that chemicals are properly tested and proven safe before they make it into our consumer products.

When subjects of the study learned of the toxics they were being exposed to, most were surprised. They blamed environmental disasters, such as chemical spills and waste dumps, and were shocked to find out the source was actually closer to home.

The study proves we still have a lot to learn about indoor pollution. We should make sure industry proves the safety of chemicals before they ever make it onto the market. We spend 80% of our time indoors, so we need to make sure we have healthy, safe household environments to live in.

By: Debbie Moguillansky