Sunday, January 31, 2010

State mandates for using environmentally friendly cleaning products debated

State mandates for using environmentally friendly cleaning products debated
http://www.whig.com/story/news/Green-Clean-013110

"More states are requiring schools and government buildings to use environmentally friendly cleaning products, raising some debate about their costs and benefits."

NEWSLETTER: MCS America News - February 2010

MCSA NEWS
February 2010, Volume 5, Issue 2

Entire PDF Edition: http://mcs-america.org/february2010.pdf  (View, Download, and Print)
NEW!  Entire Online Edition:
http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsfebruary2010.htm   (View as a Webpage)

 

Direct Links to Articles Inside This Issue:

 

MCS Awareness Month 2010

PDF Version:      http://mcs-america.org/February2010pg23456.pdf

Online Version:  http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsfebruary2010.htm#_MCS_Awareness_Month

 

Do Mobile Phones Cure Alzheimer's Disease?

PDF Version:      http://mcs-america.org/February2010pg78.pdf

Online Version:  http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsfebruary2010.htm#_Do_Mobile_Phones

 

Time to Look at Your Home in a Different Light:  Basements, Part 3

PDF Version:      http://mcs-america.org/February2010pg9101112.pdf 

Online Version:  http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsfebruary2010.htm#_Time_to_Look_1

 

Washington First to Proclaim May 2010 as MCS Awareness and Education Month

PDF Version:      http://mcs-america.org/February2010pg13.pdf 

Online Version:  http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsfebruary2010.htm#_Washington_First_to

 

Op-Ed   Preying on the Desperate, Part 3, The Broken Promise, A Quick and Easy Cure

PDF Version:      http://mcs-america.org/February2010pg141516.pdf

Online Version:  http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsfebruary2010.htm#_Welcome_to_Multiple

 

Q&A Shopping Without Leaving Home

PDF Version:      http://mcs-america.org/February2010pg17.pdf

Online Version:  http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsfebruary2010.htm#_Proposed_Treatment_of

 

Electromagnetic Sensitivity Gains Awareness Month

PDF Version:      http://mcs-america.org/February2010pg1819.pdf

Online Version:  http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsfebruary2010.htm#_Electromagnetic_Sensitivity_Gains

 

Air Pollution Linked to Autoimmune Diseases

PDF Version:      http://mcs-america.org/February2010pg20.pdf

Online Version:  http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsfebruary2010.htm#_Air_Pollution_Linked

 

The Intent of Support Group Owners

PDF Version:      http://mcs-america.org/February2010pg21.pdf

Online Version:  http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsfebruary2010.htm#_The_Intent_of

 

Patient Support and Resources

PDF Version:      http://mcs-america.org/February2010pg2223242526272829.pdf

Online Version:  http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsfebruary2010.htm#_Resources_and_Support_1

 

Community News

PDF Version:      http://mcs-america.org/February2010pg30.pdf

Online Version:  http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsfebruary2010.htm#_Community_News_8

 

Featured Research Studies

PDF Version:      http://mcs-america.org/February2010pg313233.pdf

Online Version:  http://mcs-america.org/mcsanewsfebruary2010.htm#_Featured_Research_Studies_7

 

Multiple Chemical Sensitivities America
http://www.mcs-america.org admin@mcs-america.org

 

 

Copyrighted © 2010  MCS America

 

You have received this newsletter because you subscribed to it.

If you wish to unsubscribe, please send a message to unsubscribe@mcs-america.org.

 

This newsletter may be forwarded provided it is forwarded in it's entirety.

Some individuals may receive this newsletter through forwarded posts from independent listserves/groups.

If you no longer wish to receive mail, contact your administrator or unsubscribe from your listserv/group.

Saturday, January 30, 2010

Risk of cancer among hairdressers and related workers: a meta-analysis.

Risk of cancer among hairdressers and related workers: a meta-analysis.
Takkouche B, Regueira-Méndez C, Montes-Martínez A.
Int J Epidemiol. 2009 Dec;38(6):1512-31. Epub 2009 Sep 14.
Department of Preventive Medicine, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela, Spain. bahi.takkouche@usc.es
BACKGROUND: Hairdressers and allied occupations represent a large and fast growing group of professionals. The fact that these professionals are chronically exposed to a large number of chemicals present in their work environment, including potential carcinogens contained in hair dyes, makes it necessary to carry out a systematic evaluation of the risk of cancer in this group.
 
METHODS: We retrieved studies by systematically searching Medline and other computerized databases, and by manually examining the references of the original articles and monographs retrieved. We also contacted international researchers working on this or similar topics to complete our search. We included 247 studies reporting relative risk (RR) estimates of hairdresser occupation and cancer of different sites.
 
RESULTS: Study-specific RRs were weighted by the inverse of their variance to obtain fixed and random effects pooled estimates. The pooled RR of occupational exposure as a hairdresser was 1.27 (95% CI 1.15-1.41) for lung cancer, 1.52 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.11-2.08] for larynx cancer, 1.30 (95% CI 1.20-1.42) for bladder cancer and 1.62 (95% CI 1.22-2.14) for multiple myeloma. Data for other anatomic sites showed increases of smaller magnitude. The results restricted to those studies carried out before the ban of two major carcinogens from hair dyes in the mid-1970s were similar to the general results.
 
CONCLUSIONS: Hairdressers have a higher risk of cancer than the general population. Improvement of the ventilation system in the hairdresser salons and implementation of hygiene measures aimed at mitigating exposure to potential carcinogens at work may reduce the risk.
PMID: 19755396 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Postexertional Malaise in Women with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.

Postexertional Malaise in Women with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.
Vanness JM, Stevens SR, Bateman L, Stiles TL, Snell CR.
J Womens Health (Larchmt). 2010 Jan 24. [Epub ahead of print]
 
Pacific Fatigue Laboratory, University of the Pacific , Stockton, California.
Abstract
 
Objective: Postexertional malaise (PEM) is a defining characteristic of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) that remains a source of some controversy. The purpose of this study was to explore the effects of an exercise challenge on CFS symptoms from a patient perspective.
 
Methods: This study included 25 female CFS patients and 23 age-matched sedentary controls. All participants underwent a maximal cardiopulmonary exercise test. Subjects completed a health and well-being survey (SF-36) 7 days postexercise. Subjects also provided, approximately 7 days after testing, written answers to open-ended questions pertaining to physical and cognitive responses to the test and length of recovery. SF-36 data were compared using multivariate analyses. Written questionnaire responses were used to determine recovery time as well as number and type of symptoms experienced.
 
Results: Written questionnaires revealed that within 24 hours of the test, 85% of controls indicated full recovery, in contrast to 0 CFS patients. The remaining 15% of controls recovered within 48 hours of the test. In contrast, only 1 CFS patient recovered within 48 hours. Symptoms reported after the exercise test included fatigue, light-headedness, muscular/joint pain, cognitive dysfunction, headache, nausea, physical weakness, trembling/instability, insomnia, and sore throat/glands. A significant multivariate effect for the SF-36 responses (p < 0.001) indicated lower functioning among the CFS patients, which was most pronounced for items measuring physiological function.
 
Conclusions: The results of this study suggest that PEM is both a real and an incapacitating condition for women with CFS and that their responses to exercise are distinctively different from those of sedentary controls.

PMID: 20095909 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

Chronic fatigue syndrome is associated with metabolic syndrome: results from a case-control study in Georgia.

Chronic fatigue syndrome is associated with metabolic syndrome: results from
a case-control study in Georgia.
Maloney EM, Boneva RS, Lin JM, Reeves WC.
Metabolism. 2010 Jan 25. [Epub ahead of print]

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Chronic Viral Diseases Branch,
National Center for Zoonotic, Vector-borne and Enteric Diseases, MS-A15,
1600 Clifton Rd, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA.

We hypothesized that persons with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) would have
a higher prevalence of metabolic syndrome compared with well controls, and
that unwell persons with insufficient symptoms or fatigue for CFS (termed
ISF) would have a prevalence of metabolic syndrome intermediate between
those with CFS and the controls. We also sought to examine the relationship
between metabolic syndrome and measures of functional impairment, fatigue,
and other symptoms. Our analysis was based on a population-based
case-control study conducted in metropolitan, urban, and rural areas of
Georgia, United States, between September 2004 and July 2005. There were 111
persons with CFS, 259 with ISF, and 123 controls. Metabolic syndrome was
determined based on having at least 3 of 5 standard risk components
(abdominal obesity, high triglycerides, high blood pressure, elevated
fasting glucose, and decreased high-density lipids) according to the
National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III definition.
Persons with CFS were 2-fold as likely to have metabolic syndrome (odds
ratio = 2.12, confidence interval = 1.06, 4.23) compared with the controls.
There was a significant graded relationship between the number of metabolic
syndrome factors and CFS; each additional factor was associated with a 37%
increase in likelihood of having CFS. The association of ISF with metabolic
syndrome was weaker (odds ratio = 1.72, confidence interval = 0.94-3.16).
Among persons with CFS, the number of metabolic syndrome factors was
significantly correlated with worse fatigue on a standardized summary
measure of fatigue (r = 0.20, P = .04). In conclusion, CFS was associated
with metabolic syndrome, which further exacerbated fatigue. Published by
Elsevier Inc.

PMID: 20102774 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

[Cognitive impairment in patients suffering from fibromyalgia : An underestimated problem.]

[Cognitive impairment in patients suffering from fibromyalgia : An
underestimated problem.]
[Article in German]

Schmidt-Wilcke T, Wood P, Lürding R.
Schmerz. 2010 Jan 29. [Epub ahead of print]

Neurologische Klinik der Universität Regensburg, Regensburg, Deutschland,
tobiass@med.umich.edu.
The primary symptom of fibromyalgia (FM) is chronic, widespread pain
accompanied by diffuse tenderness to light palpation. However, many patients
report a multitude of additional complaints and symptoms. Besides fatigue,
exhaustibility and stiffness, a decrease in concentration and memory are
further complaints that add significantly to the degree of suffering. This
complaint, often termed "fibrofog", is increasingly recognised as an
independent symptom that has made its way into the medical literature under
the term "dyscognition". Nonetheless there are only a few studies that have
specifically investigated neuropsychological deficits in FM patients in
order to further specify clinical complaints. The studies performed so far
have provided increasing evidence that FM patients have attention and
working memory deficits, which are most prominent when patients have to cope
with an additional source of distraction. With this review we intend to give
an overview of the neuropsychological studies in FM performed so far and to
assess possible implications for the underlying pathophysiology. In
addition, we discuss potential clinical approaches to these symptoms. A
systematic literature review up to June 2009 was carried out using the
keywords (pairs) "fibromyalgia" and "cognition", "fibromyalgia" and
"dyscognition", "fibromyalgia" and "cognitive deficits".

PMID: 20108102 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

The Top 10 Toxic Products You Don't Need

The Top 10 Toxic Products You Don't Need
http://blogs.webmd.com/health-ehome/2010/01/top-10-toxic-products-you-dont-need.html

"It's become so common in our culture to assume we need things - a lot of things. Over-consumption is not only a strain on our bank accounts and environment, it can also be harmful to our health. Whether there's a warning label or not (usually not), many of the things we buy have associated health risks."

How Many Chemicals are You Wearing?

How Many Chemicals are You Wearing?
http://blogs.webmd.com/health-ehome/2010/01/how-many-chemicals-are-you-wearing.html

"A recent study in the UK found that the average woman wears over 500 chemicals on her body every day. Similar to the US, women douse themselves daily with perfume, moisturizer, lotion, and a wide variety of cosmetics that altogether contain hundreds of chemicals. Most of the women were completely oblivious to the number of chemicals they were putting on. Do you know how many you wear?"

Irritant and adjuvant effects of gaseous formaldehyde on the ovalbumin-induced hyperresponsiveness and inflammation in a rat model.

Irritant and adjuvant effects of gaseous formaldehyde on the ovalbumin-induced hyperresponsiveness and inflammation in a rat model.
Qiao Y, Li B, Yang G, Yao H, Yang J, Liu D, Yan Y, Sigsgaard T, Yang X.
Inhal Toxicol. 2009 Dec;21(14):1200-7.
College of Life Science, Central China Normal University, Wuhan, China.
BACKGROUND: Formaldehyde (FA) is a common indoor air pollutant that can cause asthma in people experiencing long-term exposure. While FA and other man-made chemicals contribute to the stimulation of asthma in the general population, the underlying molecular pathogenesis of this relationship is not yet well understood.
 
OBJECTIVE: To explore FA as an irritant for the onset of asthma and as an adjuvant for the induction of allergy.
 
METHODS: In the present study, 40 Wistar rats in five experimental groups were exposed to: (i) saline; (ii) ovalbumin (OVA); (iii) OVA + FA at 417 ppb; (iv) OVA + FA at 2500 ppb; and (v) FA at 2500 ppb. Current and prior occupational exposure limits in China were established at 417 ppb and 2500 ppb, respectively. Gaseous FA was administrated to the animals for 6 h/day before and during OVA immunization or saline treatment. Measured outcomes included in situ lung function analysis, cytokine measurement, and histological changes in the rat lungs.
 
RESULTS: The airway reactivity, lung histological changes, pulmonary interleukin-4 secretion, and eosinophil infiltration in the OVA and FA exposed rats were significantly higher after gaseous FA exposures of 417 and 2500 ppb. While FA exposure alone did not induce significant structural changes to the airway, and the rate of inflammatory cell infiltration was the same as for the control group, pulmonary levels of interferon-gamma were significantly elevated in the exposed rats.
 
CONCLUSIONS: FA may be an irritant as well as serve as an adjuvant for the onset of asthma or asthma-like symptoms.
PMID: 19827972 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

A circadian clock regulates sensitivity to cadmium in Paramecium tetraurelia.

A circadian clock regulates sensitivity to cadmium in Paramecium tetraurelia.
Hinrichsen RD, Tran JR.
Cell Biol Toxicol. 2010 Jan 27. [Epub ahead of print]

Department of Biology, Indiana University of Pennsylvania, 975 Oakland Avenue, Indiana, PA, 15705, USA, bhinrich@iup.edu.

The heavy metal cadmium is a dangerous environmental toxicant that can be lethal to humans and other organisms. This paper demonstrates that cadmium is lethal to the ciliated protozoan Paramecium tetraurelia and that a circadian clock modulates the sensitivity of the cells to cadmium. Various concentrations of cadmium were shown to increase the number of behavioral responses, decrease the swimming speed of cells, and generate large vacuole formation in cells prior to death. Cells were grown in either 12-h light/12-h dark or constant dark conditions exhibited a toxic response to 500 muM CdCl(2); the sensitivity of the response was found to vary with a 24-h periodicity. Cells were most sensitive to cadmium at circadian time 0 (CT0), while they were least sensitive in the early evening (CT12). This rhythm persisted even when the cells were grown in constant dark. The oscillation in cadmium sensitivity was shown to be temperature-compensated; cells grown at 18 degrees C and 28 degrees C had a similar 24-h oscillation. Finally, phase shifting experiments demonstrated a phase-dependent response to light. These data establish the criteria required for a circadian clock and demonstrate that P. tetraurelia possesses a circadian-influenced regulatory component of the cadmium toxic response. The Paramecium system is shown to be an excellent model system for the study of the effects of biological rhythms on heavy metal toxicity.

PMID: 20108033 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

Lawn-care firms seek charges against health officials

Lawn-care firms seek charges against health officials
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/lawn-care-firms-seek-charges-against-health-officials/article1448590/

"An individual representing Ontario lawn-care companies is trying to have Criminal Code charges levied against doctors, public health officials and environmentalists who publicly lobbied the province to institute a ban on the cosmetic use of pesticides around homes."

Children more likely to have attention, behavioral problems when exposed to phthalates in womb, New York study says

Children more likely to have attention, behavioral problems when exposed to phthalates in womb, New York study says
http://www.environmentalhealthnews.org/ehs/news/phthalates-and-attention-deficits

"Children exposed in the womb to chemicals in cosmetics and fragrances are more likely to develop behavioral problems commonly found in children with attention deficit disorders, according to a study of New York City school-age children published Thursday. Scientists said the findings uncovered a new problem that could be related to phthalates - effects on a child's developing brain. "More phthalates equaled more behavioral problems," said Stephanie Engel, an associate professor of preventive medicine at Mount Sinai School of Medicine. "For every increase of exposure, we saw an increase in frequency and severity of the symptoms," including attention problems, poor conduct and aggression. The connection was only detected for the types of phthalates used in perfumes, shampoos and other personal care products, not the ones found in vinyl toys and other soft plastics."

Bronx parents win toxic caulk agreement

Bronx parents win toxic caulk agreement
http://www.yournabe.com/articles/2010/01/29/bronx/bronxtimes-yn_bronx_front_page-4-pcbs.txt

"P.S. 178 parent Naomi Gonzalez suspended her lawsuit against the city Department of Education and School Construction Authority on Tuesday, January 19 as the DOE promised the federal Environmental Protection Agency that it would perform a million dollar pilot study of air, soil and caulk at five schools and develop a plan to address PCB contamination."

Friday, January 29, 2010

WalMart Disney Necklaces Recalled Due to Toxic Concerns

WalMart Disney Necklaces Recalled Due to Toxic Concerns
http://www.attorneyatlaw.com/2010/01/walmart-disney-necklaces-recalled-due-to-toxic-concerns/

"Children's metal necklaces bearing images of Disney's "Princess and the Frog" and sold only at WalMart stores nationwide are being recalled because they contain potentially dangerous high levels of the toxic metal cadmium."

Air pollution exposure during pregnancy and reduced birth size

Air pollution exposure during pregnancy and reduced birth size: a
prospective birth cohort study in Valencia, Spain
http://abc.go.com/watch/private-practice/127386/238346/right-here-right-now

Ferran Ballester , Marisa Estarlich , Carmen Iniguez , Sabrina Llop , Rosa
Ramon , Ana Esplugues , Marina Lacasana and Marisa Rebagliato
Environmental Health 2010, 9:6doi:10.1186/1476-069X-9-6

Published:29 January 2010

Abstract (provisional)

Background
Maternal exposure to air pollution has been related to fetal growth in a
number of recent scientific studies. The objective of this study was to
assess the association between exposure to air pollution during pregnancy
and anthropometric measures at birth in a cohort in Valencia, Spain.

Methods
Seven hundred and eighty-five pregnant women and their singleton newborns
participated in the study. Exposure to ambient nitrogen dioxide (NO2) was
estimated by means of land use regression. NO2 spatial estimations were
adjusted to correspond to relevant pregnancy periods (whole pregnancy and
trimesters) for each woman. Outcome variables were birth weight, length, and
head circumference (HC), along with being small for gestational age (SGA).
The association between exposure to residential outdoor NO2 and outcomes was
assessed controlling for potential confounders and examining the shape of
the relationship using generalized additive models (GAM).

Results
For continuous anthropometric measures, GAM indicated a change in slope at
NO2 concentrations of around 40 mcg/m3. NO2 exposure >40 mcg/m3 during the
first trimester was associated with a change in birth length of -0.27 cm
(95% CI: -0.51 to -0.03) and with a change in birth weight of -40.3 grams
(-96.3 to 15.6); the same exposure throughout the whole pregnancy was
associated with a change in birth HC of -0.17 cm (-0.34 to -0.003). The
shape of the relation was seen to be roughly linear for the risk of being
SGA. A 10 mcg/m3 increase in NO2 during the second trimester was associated
with being SGA-weight, OR: 1.37 (1.01-1.85). For SGA-length the estimate for
the same comparison was OR: 1.42 (0.89-2.25).

Conclusions
Prenatal exposure to traffic-related air pollution may reduce fetal growth.
Findings from this study provide further evidence of the need for developing
strategies to reduce air pollution in order to prevent risks to fetal health
and development.

Mobile phone radiation health risk controversy: the reliability and sufficiency of science behind the safety standards

Mobile phone radiation health risk controversy: the reliability and sufficiency of science behind the safety standards

Dariusz Leszczynski  and Zhengping Xu
Health Research Policy and Systems 2010, 8:2doi:10.1186/1478-4505-8-2

Published:27 January 2010

Abstract (provisional)
There is ongoing discussion whether the mobile phone radiation causes any health effects. The International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection, the International Committee on Electromagnetic Safety and the World Health Organization are assuring that there is no proven health risk and that the present safety limits protect all mobile phone users. However, based on the available scientific evidence, the situation is not as clear. The majority of the evidence comes from in vitro laboratory studies and is of very limited use for determining health risk. Animal toxicology studies are inadequate because it is not possible to "overdose" microwave radiation, as it is done with chemical agents, due to simultaneous induction of heating side-effects. There is a lack of human volunteer studies that would, in unbiased way, demonstrate whether human body responds at all to mobile phone radiation. Finally, the epidemiological evidence is insufficient due to, among others, selection and misclassification bias and the low sensitivity of this approach in detection of health risk within the population. This indicates that the presently available scientific evidence is insufficient to prove reliability of the current safety standards. Therefore, we recommend to use precaution when dealing with mobile phones and, whenever possible and feasible, to limit body exposure to this radiation. Continuation of the research on mobile phone radiation effects is needed in order to improve the basis and the reliability of the safety standards.

Warning: Your Cell Phone May Be Hazardous to Your Health

Warning: Your Cell Phone May Be Hazardous to Your Health
http://www.gq.com/cars-gear/gear-and-gadgets/201002/warning-cell-phone-radiation?printable=true

"Ever worry that that gadget you spend hours holding next to your head might be damaging your brain? Well, the evidence is starting to pour in, and it's not pretty. So why isn't anyone in America doing anything about it?"

Creams Offering Lighter Skin May Bring Risks

Creams Offering Lighter Skin May Bring Risks
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/01/16/health/16skin.html

"After months of twice-a-day applications, her skin was not only fairer, it had become so thin that a touch would bruise her face. Her capillaries became visible, and she developed stubborn acne. A doctor told her that all three were side effects of prescription-strength steroids in some of the creams, which she had bought over the counter in beauty supply stores."

Toxic denture cream killed my husband, says widow

Toxic denture cream killed my husband, says widow
http://news.scotsman.com/odd/Toxic-denture-cream-killed-.6020741.jp

"AN AMERICAN widow has launched a lawsuit alleging that her husband was killed by his dentures.
The family of Rodney Urbanek, 64, claim he died from deadly levels of zinc ingested from a toxic denture adhesive that he used for 14 years."

Thursday, January 28, 2010

LIGHTER SEDATION FOR ELDERLY DURING SURGERY MAY REDUCE RISK OF CONFUSION, DISORIENTATION AFTER

LIGHTER SEDATION FOR ELDERLY DURING SURGERY MAY REDUCE RISK OF CONFUSION, DISORIENTATION AFTER  
http://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/Press_releases/2010/01_20_10.html 
 
"A common complication following surgery in elderly patients is postoperative delirium, a state of confusion that can lead to long-term health problems and cause some elderly patients to complain that they "never felt the same" again after an operation. But a new study by Johns Hopkins researchers suggests that simply limiting the depth of sedation during procedures could safely cut the risk of postoperative delirium by 50 percent."

Wednesday, January 27, 2010

WEBINAR: What does Chemical Contamination Cost Health Care?

WEBINAR
What does Chemical Contamination Cost Health Care?
 
Thursday January 28, 2010
1:00 p.m. Eastern time / 10:00 a.m. Pacific time

Sponsor: Practice Greenhealth

A new report being released this month by Safer Chemicals, Healthy Families outlines the role of environmental contaminants in cancer, asthma, reproductive disorders, and other conditions. Learn about the report from a co-author and other leading researchers. Estimates of the proportion of the disease burden that can be attributed to toxic chemical exposures vary, ranging from 1 percent of all disease to 5 percent of childhood cancer, 10 percent of diabetes, Parkinson's disease, and neurodevelopmental deficits, and 30 percent of childhood asthma. A conservative estimate puts the health care cost savings attributable to a decline in the incidence of chronic disease due to reductions in chemical exposures at $5 billion per year. The report illustrates the opportunity to prevent disease and reduce health-care expenditures by overhauling the chemical management system in the United States. Speakers will be Charlotte Brody, RN, from Safer Chemicals Healthy Families; Richard Clapp, DSc, MPH, of Boston University School of Public Health; and Ted Schettler, MD, MPH, of the Science and Environmental Health Network.

Price: free

Visit the website

VIDEO: Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and XMRV

Dr. Judy Mikovits XMRV Presentation
http://vimeo.com/9004628

Dr. Judy Mikovits XMRV Q&A
http://vimeo.com/8983475

CBS News: Living with Multiple Chemical Sensitivities

CBS News: Living with Multiple Chemical Sensitiviti
Catherine Hollingsworth struggles to create a sanctuary from everyday chemicals she says are slowly killing her.

Part 1


Part 2


Key Words: multiple chemical sensitivity, chemical sensitivity, chemical sensitivities, multiple chemical sensitivities, MCS, EI, environmental illness, sick building syndrome, idiopathic environmental intolerance, fibromyalgia, chronic fatiuge, FM, CFS, mold illness, clinical ecology, alternative medicine, environmental medicine, neuropathy, encephalopathy, toxic, chemical

Research: Work Experiences of Persons with MCS

Research
Work Experiences of Persons with MCS
http://www.mcsresearch.net/currentstudies.html

Pamela Reed Gibson is a researcher at James Madison University who has published some outstanding MCS research.  She now says, "We are seeking people with multiple chemical sensitivities, either self or physician-diagnosed, who are currently employed or have been employed in the past while having MCS. If you are 18 or older, we are interested in your workplace experiences, in cluding your perceptions of the treatment you received from managers adn co-workers. If you would be willing to complete a survey online or in hardcopy we would very much appreciate your participation. Paste this address into your internet browser to participate: 

2 million faulty needles recalled by FDA

2 million faulty needles recalled by FDA
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/35081755
"Needles can push bits of silicone from injection ports into patients' bodies"

Infant swimming tied to lung infection, asthma

Infant swimming tied to lung infection, asthma
http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE60P5IX20100126

"Children who start swimming before the age of 2 may be at increased risk of a common infant lung infection, and possibly asthma and respiratory allergies later in life, a new study suggests.

The findings, reported in the European Respiratory Journal, add to evidence that exposure to chlorinated pools may affect children's respiratory health -- particularly if they have a family history of asthma or respiratory allergies like hay fever."

Mayor Newsom Introduces Cell-Phone Radiation Labeling Legislation

Mayor Newsom Introduces Cell-Phone Radiation Labeling Legislation
http://www.sfmayor.org/press-room/press-releases/press-release-cell-phone-radiation-labeling/

"Legislation would require cell phone retailers to post cell phone radiation levels at point of sale"

Tuesday, January 26, 2010

'Poop' dermatitis linked to fashionable toilet seats, harsh chemicals

'Poop' dermatitis linked to fashionable toilet seats, harsh chemicals 
http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2010-01/jhmi-dl012110.php
 
"Analyzing five cases from the United States and India in the February issue of the journal Pediatrics, Cohen and colleagues said the culprits responsible for the reemergence of the condition are harsh cleaning chemicals and exotic wooden toilet seats — making a comeback as bathroom décor —especially seats covered with varnishes and paints."

California's Pesticide Use Declined, Yet Millions of Pounds of Toxic Pesticides Continue

California's Pesticide Use Declined, Yet Millions of Pounds of Toxic Pesticides Continue
http://www.beyondpesticides.org/dailynewsblog/?p=3019

"Pesticide use declined in California for a third consecutive year in 2008, according to the state's Department of Pesticide Regulation (DPR). Approximately 162 million pounds of reported pesticides were applied statewide, a decrease of nearly 10 million pounds - or 6 percent - from 2007. Pesticide use in production agriculture fell by 9.6 million pounds and in most other categories as well, including structural pest control and landscape maintenance. Reports are mandatory for agricultural and pest control business applications, while most home, industrial and institutional uses are exempt."

Scientists link flame retardants and reduced human fertility

Scientists link flame retardants and reduced human fertility
http://www.environmentalhealthnews.org/ehs/news/flame-retardants-and-human-fertility

"Scientists for the first time have found evidence that flame retardants - ubiquitous in homes and in the environment - may be reducing human fertility. California women exposed to high levels of the compounds take substantially longer to get pregnant than women with low levels."

Bill Banning Toxic Chemical In Baby Bottles, Sippy Cups, and Water Bottles Passes House Overwhelmingly

Bill Banning Toxic Chemical In Baby Bottles, Sippy Cups, and Water Bottles Passes House Overwhelmingly
http://www.watoxics.org/news/pressroom/press-releases/bill-banning-toxic-chemical-in-baby-bottles-sippy-cups-and-water-bottles-passes-house-overwhelmingly

"One Of Environmental Community's Top Priorities Happy Bottle Advocates Await Senate Action
The Washington State House of Representatives today overwhelmingly passed the Safe Baby Bottle Act (2SHB 1180), a bill to eliminate the chemical bisphenol A (BPA) from food and beverage containers used by children. The bill passed with bipartisan support on a vote of 95-1."

Monday, January 25, 2010

Australia bans toxic toys

Australia bans toxic toys
http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2010/01/25/2801042.htm?section=business

"The Federal Government has banned toys and baby products containing a potentially dangerous chemical.  Consumer Affairs Minister Craig Emerson says any plastic baby products containing more than 1 per cent of diethylhexyl phthalate, known as DEHP, are now prohibited from sale in Australia."

Chemistry of Modern Life: 'Slow Death' in Common Things

Chemistry of Modern Life: 'Slow Death' in Common Things
http://www.nj.com/newsflash/index.ssf?/base/entertainment-14/1264436617172020.xml&storylist=entertainment

"Most people worry about mold infecting their homes, electrical appliances malfunctioning or gas leaks. But while all those things are dangerous, Canadian environmental activists Rick Smith and Bruce Lourie - authors of "Slow Death by Rubber Duck: The Secret Danger of Everyday Things," which has been a best-seller in Canada and Australia - say there are things a lot more practical and normal that could kill you. You know, like tuna. Or Teflon-coated pots and pans. Or even your toothpaste."

Effects of exposure to a mobile phone on sexual behavior in adult male rabbit: an observational study.

Effects of exposure to a mobile phone on sexual behavior in adult male rabbit: an observational study.
Salama N, Kishimoto T, Kanayama HO, Kagawa S.
Int J Impot Res. 2009 Nov 26. [Epub ahead of print]

[1] Departments of Urology, Tokushima School of Medicine, Tokushima City, Japan [2] Department of Urology, Alexandria Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria, Egypt.

The accumulating effects of exposure to electromagnetic radiation emitted by a conventional mobile phone (MP) on male sexual behaviour have not yet been analyzed. Therefore, we studied these effects in 18 male rabbits that were randomly divided into phone and control groups. Six female teasers were taken successively to the male's cage and the copulatory behavior was recorded. Serum total testosterone, dopamine and cortisol were evaluated. The animals of the phone group were exposed to MPs (800 MHz) in a standby position for 8 h daily for 12 weeks. At the end of the study, the copulatory behavior and hormonal assays were re-evaluated. Mounts without ejaculation were the main mounts in the phone group and its duration and frequency increased significantly compared with the controls, whereas the reverse was observed in its mounts with ejaculation. Ejaculation frequency dropped significantly, biting/grasping against teasers increased notably and mounting latency in accumulated means from the first to the fourth teasers were noted in the phone group. The hormonal assays did not show any significant differences between the study groups. Therefore, the pulsed radiofrequency emitted by a conventional MP, which was kept on a standby position, could affect the sexual behavior in the rabbit.International Journal of Impotence Research advance online publication, 26 November 2009; doi:10.1038/ijir.2009.57.

PMID: 19940851 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

IAQ/Mold 101 - Benefits of Screening IAQ Contaminants (CEU's/RC's available)

IAQ/Mold 101 - Benefits of Screening IAQ Contaminants (CEU's/RC's available)
https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/614110649

Webnar Registration

When addressing a Mold/IAQ concern, do you have an actual problem in your building?  

All buildings have varying levels of the various indoor pollutants.   Oftentimes a hyper-sensitve person and/or a temporary event generate IAQ-related service calls.  Do you have enough information to call in a professional consultant?  

Attendees will learn the following:

*Identify the Indoor Pollutants
*Learn About Guidelines and Resources
*IAQ Screen Testing Techniques
*Benefits of Proactive IAQ Testing
*Case Studies

Special Note:  RC's with ACAC are presently available.  Certificates of Attendance are only issued to participants that attend  throughout the duration of the presentation.

That New-Car Smell

That New-Car Smell
http://autos.aol.com/article/toxic-car-interiors?ncid=AOLCOMMautogenlfpge0006

"Intoxicating…and Toxic?
For many, the new-car smell is a bonus that comes with buying a new vehicle — an olfactory reward to enjoy each time the owner slides behind the wheel.  That smell, however, also could make them — and their passengers — sick."

'Doctors, school, friends thought I was faking chronic fatigue syndrome'

'Doctors, school, friends thought I was faking chronic fatigue syndrome'
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/health/features/article6998742.ece

"As the trial of Kay Gilderdale puts ME back in the spotlight, we ask why more is not being done to help sufferers."

Sunday, January 24, 2010

Outdoor Furnaces Make Bad Neighbors


"Beth Terra invited her parents to Thanksgiving dinner at her home in New Hartford. But the folks couldn't stay — in fact, they all had to leave. The problem was acrid smoke from a neighbor's outdoor wood-burning furnace, or OWF."

Traffic fumes increase the risks of child pneumonia

Traffic fumes increase the risks of child pneumonia
http://www.guardian.co.uk/society/2010/jan/24/traffic-pollution-child-pneumonia

"Children who live near a main road are in greater danger of catching pneumonia because pollution from passing traffic damages their lungs. A leading expert in childhood breathing difficulties has made the link between exposure to particles from vehicle exhausts and a child's susceptibility to the chest infection, which can be fatal."

Saturday, January 23, 2010

Connecticut Governor Jodi Rell Declares May 2010 as Electromagnetic Sensitivity Awarenss Month

Connecticut Governor Jodi Rell Declares May 2010 as Electromagnetic Sensitivity Awarenss Month
Download Proclamation: 
http://mcs-america.org/Connecticut2010EMS.pdf

Washington Governor Christine Gregoire Declares May 2010 as Multiple Chemical Sensitivty Awareness Month!

Washington Governor Christine Gregoire Declares May 2010 as Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Awareness Month!  
Download Proclamation: 
http://www.mcs-america.org/washington2010MCS.pdf

Thanks to Steve Monroe at
http://www.mcs-awareness.org for his hard work on this!
 
Please forward and share the good news!

Mayor Don Coombs Proclaims January 2010 As Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity Awareness Month

Mayor Don Coombs Proclaims January 2010 As Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity Awareness Month
http://www.americanchronicle.com/articles/view/138096

"Don Coombs, Mayor of Harbour Grace, Newfoundland, Canada, has proclaimed January 2010 as Electromagnetic Hypersensitivity Awareness Month. This is the fourth proclamation in Canada, (the first one was signed by David Saunders, Mayor of the City of Colwood, B.C. (August 2009) the second one was done by Dennis O ´ Keefe, Mayor of St Johns´s in Newfoundland), ( August 2009), and the third one was signed by Mayor Fred Budgell of Norris Arms, Newfounland (October 2009)."
 

BREAK THROUGH! SPANISH GOVT TO MEET WITH MCS ORGANIZATIONS

NO FUN: BREAK THROUGH! SPANISH GOVT TO MEET WITH MCS ORGANIZATIONS
http://nofun-eva.blogspot.com/2010/01/spanish-govt-to-meet-with-mcs.html

"On January 15th 2010 I listened to a live net-cast of an exceedingly important program on MCS put out by the Spanish Radio 3 Program "Carne Cruda". Subsequent to that interview a summary article was written in Spanish by journalist Miguel Jara. Miguel is an environmental journalist who has recently written a book with a chapter about MCS where Eva Caballé has given a testimonial. He has no relation to "Carne Cruda" and was one of the guests."

Lead Found in Women's Handbags

Lead Found in Women's Handbags
http://abcnews.go.com/WN/lead-found-womens-handbags/story?id=9638944

"A landmark agreement involving two big retail chains establishes, for the first time, limits on lead in women's handbags and wallets. The Center for Environmental Health went to 100 of the nation's top retailers -- including Target, Macy's, Wal-Mart and Kohl's -- and bought purses. The group had the bags tested for lead at an independent lab. Two separate tests were conducted. Some bags were wiped to see how much, if any, lead would simply rub off the material. The bags also were tested for the total lead content of the products. The tests came back showing disturbingly high levels of lead, the Center for Environmental Health said."

Air pollution and increased levels of fractional exhaled nitric oxide in children with no history of airway damage.

Air pollution and increased levels of fractional exhaled nitric oxide in children with no history of airway damage.

Flamant-Hulin M, Caillaud D, Sacco P, Penard-Morand C, Annesi-Maesano I.

J Toxicol Environ Health A. 2010;73(4):272-83.

INSERM, U707, EPAR, 75571 Paris Cedex 12, France. hulin@u707.jussieu.fr

Air pollution is associated with a wide range of adverse respiratory events. In order to study the mechanism associated with these effects, the relationships between fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO), a potential marker of airway inflammation, and exposure to air pollution were examined in schoolchildren. FeNO was measured in 104 children (34 asthmatics and 70 non-asthmatics) drawn from the general population simultaneously with air pollution assessments (fine particles with an aerodiameter under 2.5 microm, nitrogen dioxide, acetaldehyde, and formaldehyde, with pumps and passive samplers) in schoolyards and classrooms. Asthmatics exhaled more FeNO than non-asthmatics. FeNO levels were significantly elevated in both asthmatic and non-asthmatic children exposed to high concentrations of formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, and PM(2.5). Differences between high versus low exposure in non-asthmatics resulted in an FeNO increase ranging from 45% for indoor acetaldehyde to 62% for indoor PM(2.5). Stronger associations were found in non-asthmatic children who were atopic, suggesting that atopic children may be more sensitive to air pollution than non-atopic children. Exposure to air pollution may lead to airway inflammation, as measured by FeNO, in schoolchildren. These associations occur even in children with no history of airway damage and seem to be enhanced in atopic subjects.

PMID: 20077297 [PubMed - in process]

Omega-3 fatty acids for neuropathic pain: case series.

Omega-3 fatty acids for neuropathic pain: case series.

Ko GD, Nowacki NB, Arseneau L, Eitel M, Hum A.

Clin J Pain. 2010 Feb;26(2):168-72.

Canadian Centre for Integrative Medicine and the Physiatry Interventional Pain Clinic, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario L3P1X2, Canada. drgordko@rogers.com

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this case series study was to investigate and report on patients with neuropathic pain who responded to treatment with omega-3 fatty acids. METHODS: Methods: Five patients with different underlying diagnoses including cervical radiculopathy, thoracic outlet syndrome, fibromyalgia, carpal tunnel syndrome, burn injury were treated with high oral doses of omega 3 fish oil (varying from 2400-7200 mg/day of EPA-DHA). Outcome measures were obtained pretreatment and posttreatment. These included validated surveys (short-form McGill Pain questionnaire, DN4 neuropathic pain scale, Pain Detect Questionnaire), objective clinical tools (Jamar grip strength, Lafayette dynamometry, tender point algometry) and EMG Nerve Conduction studies. RESULTS: These patients had clinically significant pain reduction, improved function as documented with both subjective and objective outcome measures up to as much as 19 months after treatment initiation. No serious adverse effects were reported. CONCLUSIONS: This first-ever reported case series suggests that omega-3 fatty acids may be of benefit in the management of patients with neuropathic pain. Further investigations with randomized controlled trials in a more specific neuropathic pain population would be warranted.

PMID: 20090445 [PubMed - in process]

Patient-initiated online support groups: motives for initiation, extent of success and success factors.

J Telemed Telecare. 2010;16(1):30-4.

Patient-initiated online support groups: motives for initiation, extent of success and success factors.

van Uden-Kraan CF, Drossaert CH, Taal E, Seydel ER, van de Laar MA.

Institute of Behavioural Research, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands.

We studied the success and success factors of online support groups (OSGs) for patients, and the motives and goals of people who start such groups. We interviewed 23 webmasters of OSGs for patients with breast cancer, fibromyalgia and arthritis. The majority were women (n = 20) and most were patients (n = 21). Analysis of the interviews revealed that webmasters had altruistic and intrinsic motives for initiating an online support group. They defined success as the fulfilment of the goals they had in mind when they initiated their groups. To be able to make a group successful, decisions about its organization and management need to be coherent with these goals. Most webmasters stressed that promoting the group, keeping it alive and moderating the messages were vital success factors during the evolution stage. Management of the OSGs took up much of the webmasters' time and energy. On average webmasters were occupied with the group for 10-15 hours a week. Our study provides an overview of the pros and cons of differing decisions that have to be made when initiating an OSG.

PMID: 20086265 [PubMed - in process]

Friday, January 22, 2010

Industrial Chemicals Lurking In Your Bloodstream

Industrial Chemicals Lurking In Your Bloodstream
http://www.forbes.com/2010/01/21/toxic-chemicals-bpa-lifestyle-health-endocrine-disruptors_print.html

"Concern is heating up over whether common industrial chemicals found in plastics and other consumer goods could be harming our kids."

Stricter rules urged on toxic chemicals

Stricter rules urged on toxic chemicals
http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/10022/1030212-114.stm

"Americans are exposed to thousands of chemicals that are potentially harmful to their health, according to a broad coalition of labor, health, and environmental organizations calling for tougher federal toxics regulation."

Why your sofa may harm your health

Why your sofa may harm your health
http://www.guardian.co.uk/science/2010/jan/21/sofas-carpets-pans-thyroid-disease

"A common household chemical found in everything from sofas and carpets to pots and pans has been linked to an increased risk of thyroid disease, in the first major study carried out on its effect upon health."

Sickness claims prompt study of wind turbines (Japan)

Sickness claims prompt study of wind turbines (Japan)
http://www.asahi.com/english/TKY201001180410.html

"Turbines used for wind power generation, pushed as a promising renewable energy source, will come under government scrutiny because of the possible impact on the health of residents."

EPA Increases Transparency on Chemical Risk Information

EPA Increases Transparency on Chemical Risk Information

http://www.epa.gov/oppt/existingchemicals/pubs/principles.html

 

"As part of Administrator Lisa P. Jackson's commitment to strengthen and reform chemical management, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today announced a new policy to increase the public's access to information on chemicals. Starting today, EPA has announced its intention to reject a certain type of confidentiality claim, known as Confidential Business Information (CBI), on the identity of chemicals. The chemicals that will be affected by this action are those that are submitted to EPA with studies that show a substantial risk to people's health and the environment and have been previously disclosed on the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) Chemical Inventory.  This action represents another step to use the agency's authority under the existing TSCA to the fullest extent possible, recognizing EPA's strong belief that the 1976 law is both outdated and in need of reform."

 

Comment: This really needs to go a step further to ensure transparency of ALL chemicals. Listing only chemicals with known substantial risk is not adequate.  People should be able to discern all ingredients in products for allergy and sensitivity reasons.  Waiting untili a chemical is proven a risk leaves the chance of many people being injured until studies are done.  Being that 80% of chemicals have not been tested for human safety, this seems to be a lot of "feel good" publicity designed to calm the massses that doesn't really solve the problem it addresses in the way the public wants. 

Silver is a potent nerve cell toxicant.

Silver is a potent nerve cell toxicant.
http://www.environmentalhealthnews.org/ehs/newscience/silver-is-potent-neurotoxicant/

"A study finds that silver has the potential to cause problems with nerve cell development at concentrations five times less than that of the pesticide chlorpyrifos, a known nerve cell toxicant."

Thursday, January 21, 2010

MCS Awarenss and Education Month - May 2010

Now is the time to start thinking about what each of us as individuals and organizations can do in May for MCS Awareness and Education Month. It's only 4 months away an it often takes time to contact politicians and community leaders to coordinate events. So, it is a good time to think about what we'd each like to do and create a plan for when to launch it into motion.
 
Last year, MCS America published an Event Planning Kit. This kit is full of ideas for ways to promote awareness. The 2010 kit can be downloaded from:
http://mcs-america.org/MCSAwarenessMonthEventPlanningKit2010.pdf.
 
Have a great 2010 MCS Awareness and Education Month!

Stain repellent chemical linked to thyroid disease in adults

Stain repellent chemical linked to thyroid disease in adults 
http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2010-01/tpco-src011810.php

"A study by the University of Exeter and the Peninsula Medical School for the first time links thyroid disease with human exposure to perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). PFOA is a persistent organic chemical used in industrial and consumer goods including nonstick cookware and stain- and water-resistant coatings for carpets and fabrics."

VIDEO: Evidence of Health Harm from Electromagnetic Radiation

VIDEO:  Evidence of Health Harm from Electromagnetic Radiation
 
"Professor Havas's research documents the harmful effects of EMR and how this effects those with electrohypersensitivity. She will also discuss the response of diabetics, those with multiple sclerosis as well as the effects of this radiation on the nervous system and on the blood."

Wednesday, January 20, 2010

Protect children from hazardous chemicals

Protect children from hazardous chemicals
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/cgi-bin/PrintStory.pl?document_id=2010835196&zsection_id=2008831910&slug=edit20chem&date=20100119

"Washington lawmakers in 2008 acted to keep toys with toxic chemicals out of the hands of children. Apply the same good instincts to hazardous baby bottles, drinking cups and plastic tableware used by children."

Pesticide ban proponents seek public reaction

Pesticide ban proponents seek public reaction
http://www.bclocalnews.com/vancouver_island_south/oakbaynews/news/81998407.html

"The image on the movie poster is striking: a baby sits serenely in a grassy yard, in front of a sign warning that pesticides had recently been applied to the lawn."

Teens Address Harmful Chemicals in Cosmetics at National Summit

Teens Address Harmful Chemicals in Cosmetics at National Summit
http://www.treehugger.com/files/2010/01/teens-address-harmful-chemicals-in-cosmetics-at-national-summit.php

City Agrees to Conduct a Study on the Risks of PCBs in Schools

City Agrees to Conduct a Study on the Risks of PCBs in Schools
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/01/20/nyregion/20schools.html

"New York City school officials have agreed to assess the environmental risks posed by PCBs in school buildings and to come up with a plan for cleanups and for reducing potential exposure, federal officials said Tuesday."

Study links springtime ozone increases above western North America to emissions from abroad

Study links springtime ozone increases above western North America to emissions from abroad
Such increases may make it more difficult to meet US Clean Air Act standards, say researchers
http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2010-01/uoca-sls012010.php

Are Carpets and Cookware Toxic to Your Liver?

Are Carpets and Cookware Toxic to Your Liver?
http://www.myfoxphilly.com/dpps/news/dpgoh-are-carpets-and-cookware-toxic-to-your-liver-fc-20100118_5593559

"A chemical used in carpets, cookware, food wrappers and many other consumer goods may cause liver damage, according to a recent study."

Federal Complaint with USDA Filed Against False "Organic" Personal Care Brands

Federal Complaint with USDA Filed Against False "Organic" Personal Care Brands
http://www.beyondpesticides.org/dailynewsblog/?p=2978

"The Organic Consumers Association (OCA), along with certified organic personal care brands Dr. Bronner's Magic Soaps, Intelligent Nutrients, and Organic Essence, last week filed a complaint with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Organic Program (NOP), seeking action to stop some personal care manufacturers from, according to the petitioners, mislabeling their products as "organic." The petitioners are requesting an investigation into what it believes is widespread and blatantly deceptive labeling practices of leading "organic" personal care brands, in violation of USDA NOP regulations."

NYC to address PCB-contaminated caulk in schools

"The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and New York City announced a pilot program Tuesday to address the problem of potentially hazardous PCBs in construction materials in some city schools."

Protect children from hazardous chemicals

Protect children from hazardous chemicals
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/editorials/2010835196_edit20chem.html

"The federal Food and Drug Administration is rethinking its approval of the chemical bisphenol A, known as BPA. The Washington Legislature should pass legislation to phase out use of the chemical in baby bottles, drinking cups and plastic tableware used by children under age 3."

'Electrosensitive' Man Sues Neighbor

'Electrosensitive' Man Sues Neighbor

"A Santa Fe man who claims to be hypersensitive to electromagnetic radiation generated by wireless technology has filed a lawsuit against his next-door neighbor for using her cell phone and wireless Internet."

Tuesday, January 19, 2010

Health Canada slow to act on lead-filled children's jewelry

Health Canada slow to act on lead-filled children's jewelry
http://www.canada.com/life/Health%20Canada%20slow%20lead%20filled%20children%20jewelry/2456638/story.html

"Canadian children were exposed to jewelry containing 100 per cent lead for over a year because Health Canada failed to alert parents of the potentially deadly risk, Canwest News Service has learned.

Three of the four items, of which Health Canada warned parents on Friday to immediately take away from their children, contained the highest levels found by scientists in the government's product safety laboratory since they began conducting regular tests in 2005."

Group pushes crackdown on toys with cadmium

Group pushes crackdown on toys with cadmium
http://www.gmanews.tv/story/181908/group-pushes-crackdown-on-toys-with-cadmium

"An environmental group called on three government secretaries to test and recall toys containing toxic metals, particularly cadmium, to safeguard children's health."

Research finds link between air pollution, school absences in Texas

Research finds link between air pollution, school absences in Texas
http://www.star-telegram.com/local/story/1902658.html

"Children in Texas are more likely to miss school when certain types of air pollution increase — even when the levels are below the limit set by the federal government, a new study says."

Monday, January 18, 2010

Mold and Chemicals Might be Plaguing Drugs Like Tylenol

Mold and Chemicals Might be Plaguing Drugs Like Tylenol
http://topnews.net.nz/content/21773-mold-and-chemicals-might-be-plaguing-drugs-tylenol

"McNeil Consumer Healthcare and the US Food and Drug Administration recently expanded the company's voluntary recall to include every lot of Tylenol Arthritis Pain pills with the distinctive red EZ-open caps, after the FDA received various complaints that the drug seemed to smell "like mold or mildew". "

Chemicals coat apples decades after Alar scare

Comment:  The problem with these guidelines is that we don't know how much of something a consumer will eat.  Hence, the guidelines are arbitrary.  Someone juicing apples to make a glass of juice would have a much greater exposure than someone who eats an apple with lunch each day.
 
Chemicals coat apples decades after Alar scare
 

"More than two decades after parents dumped apples from children's lunch boxes because of concerns about a chemical applied to the fruit, most researchers agree the crop is safer although most of it still carries pesticide residue.  Growers saw prices plunge after a 1989 television report led to widespread fears apples were coated in a cancer-causing chemical called Alar, used to enhance crunch and color. The public outcry led the government to ban some chemicals and increase oversight, while growers adopted new approaches to spraying apples and reduced the use of harsh chemicals."

REACH list of dangerous chemicals doubled

REACH list of dangerous chemicals doubled 
http://www.euractiv.com/en/sustainability/reach-list-dangerous-chemicals-doubled/article-188897

"The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has added 14 substances to the list of  "very high concern" chemicals to undergo special health and safety scrutiny under the bloc's chemical regulation REACH."

Sunday, January 17, 2010

Keeping kids too clean may do more harm than good

Keeping kids too clean may do more harm than good
http://www.dispatch.com/live/content/local_news/stories/2010/01/16/too_clean.html?sid=101

"Cleaning supplies of all sorts are plastered with claims of bacteria-annihilating powers.  Hand sanitizer is ubiquitous, especially since the arrival of H1N1 flu. And plain old soap isn't enough anymore, the soap companies tell us, touting concoctions that kill "99.99 percent of germs."  But a growing body of scientific evidence is pointing to links between hypersanitary lifestyles and health problems."

FDA says it's unable to regulate BPA


"Warning: Chemicals in the packaging, surfaces or contents of many products may cause long-term health effects, including cancers of the breast, brain and testicles; lowered sperm counts, early puberty and other reproductive system defects; diabetes; attention deficit disorder, asthma and autism. A decade ago, the government promised to test these chemicals. It still hasn't.

U.S. Food and Drug Administration officials say they are powerless to regulate BPA, although they have declared the chemical to be a safety concern for fetuses, babies and young children."

Blog Archive