MCS America ©: February 2010

'Pesticide Drift' Eluding Efforts To Combat It
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=123817702

"The Environmental Protection Agency is considering a petition from farm worker and public health advocates to ban pesticide spraying near schools, hospitals and child care centers. Part of the evidence they cite comes from California, the nation's largest agricultural producer, and a state where pesticides carried from the fields by winds sicken hundreds of people each year."

'Pesticide Drift' Eluding Efforts To Combat It

Why BPA leached from 'safe' plastics may damage health of female offspring

Why BPA leached from 'safe' plastics may damage health of female offspring
http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2010-02/foas-wbl022510.php

"Yale scientists show how bisphenol A induces epigenetic changes in pregnant mice that cause hormonal imbalance in the later life of female progeny ."

Vaccine Health Truth : Tolerance Lost by Dr. Andrew Moulden

Vaccine Health Truth : Tolerance Lost by Dr. Andrew Moulden
http://thetruthaboutmcs.blogspot.com/2010/02/vaccine-health-truth-tolerance-lost-by.html

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

Saturday, February 27, 2010

A 16-Year-Old Girl With Bilateral Visual Loss and Left Hemiparesis Following an Immunization Against Human Papilloma Virus

2010 - DiMario - A 16-Year-Old Girl With Bilateral Visual Loss and Left
Hemiparesis Following an Immunization Against Human Papilloma Virus
http://www.rescuepost.com/files/visual20loss20following20immunization20against20human20papilloma20virus1.pdf

Help parents know if toys may be toxic

Help parents know if toys may be toxic
http://www.freep.com/article/20100227/OPINION01/2270318/1069/Opinion01/Help-parents-know-if-toys-may-be-toxic

"Michigan's senators can help the children of this state stay healthy by passing a package of bills that require manufacturers to disclose when toys and other products designed for kids contain dangerous chemicals."

How Toxic is Your Child?

How Toxic is Your Child?
http://www.pacificfreepress.com/news/1/5721-how-toxic-is-your-child.html

"Poisoning the environment can and will threaten our children's health"

Els Valkenburg's English MCS book is now available as an EBook

Els Valkenburg's English MCS book is now available as an EBook / Kindle book for only $9.99 at Aamzon.com (nfi)

http://www.amazon.com/Understanding-Multiple-Chemical-Sensitivity-ebook/dp/B0039NLQO4/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=digital-text&qid=1267102562&sr=8-2-catcorr

Friday, February 26, 2010

Bill Proposes the Colorado Safe Personal Care Products Act

Bill Proposes the Colorado Safe Personal Care Products Act
http://www.skininc.com/spabusiness/regulations/85479562.html

"Safety in personal care products is a common concern among clients. Learn about new proposed legislation in Colorado attempting to ban potentially harmful ingredients in personal care products."

Chiropractor to give lectures about dangers of electromagnetic fields

Chiropractor to give lectures about dangers of electromagnetic fields
http://www.northernlife.ca/news/localNews/2010/02/electromagfields-250210.aspx

"Chiropractor Dr. Howard Fisher will give free seminars about the threat of electromagnetic fields from cell phones and other sources at the Radisson Hotel in Sudbury Feb. 26 from 7:30-9 p.m. and Feb. 27 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m."

Chiropractor to give lectures about dangers of electromagnetic fields

Civil rights complaint filed over school mold

Civil rights complaint filed over school mold
http://www.dailyadvance.com/news/civil-rights-complaint-filed-over-school-mold-16268

"A Hertford woman who claims the presence of mold in the Perquimans County Schools severely affected her allergic 13-year-old son, has removed the boy from school and filed a federal discrimination complaint against the school district."

Cyto kines across the night in chronic fatigue syndrome with and without Fibromyalgia.

Cyto kines across the night in chronic fatigue syndrome with and without Fibromyalgia.

Nakamura T, Schwander SK, Donnelly R, Ortega F, Togo F, Broderick G, Yamamoto Y, Cherniack NS, Rapoport D, Natelson BH. Clin Vaccine Immunol. 2010 Feb 24. [Epub ahead of print]

Pain & Fatigue Study Center, and Departments of Neurosciences and Medicine, UMDNJ-New Jersey Medical School, Newark NJ 07103; Department of Work Stress Control, Japan National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, Kawasaki, 214-8585, Japan; Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada, Educational Physiology Laboratory, Graduate School of Education, The University of Tokyo; and Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, NYU School of Medicine, New York NY 10016.

The symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome are consistent with cytokine dysregulation. This has led to the hypothesis of immune dysregulation as the cause of this illness. To further test this hypothesis, we did repeated blood sampling for cytokines while patients and matched healthy controls slept in the sleep lab. Because no one method for assaying cytokines is acknowledged to be better than another, we assayed for protein in serum, message in peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLs) and function in resting and stimulated PBLs. We found no evidence of pro-inflammatory cytokine upregulation. Instead, in line with some of our earlier studies, we did find some evidence to support a role for an increase in IL-10, an anti-inflammatory cytokine. Although the changes were small, they may contribute to the common complaint of CFS patients of disrupted sleep.

PMID: 20181767 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

Severe asthma with fungal sensitization: a case report and review of literature.

Severe asthma with fungal sensitization: a case report and review of literature.

Madani Y, Barlow A, Taher F. J Asthma. 2010 Feb;47(1):2-6.

Department of Respiratory Medicine, Watford General Hospital, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD18 0HB, United Kingdom. yasser.madani@doctors.org.uk

There is a substantial body of evidence supporting an association between asthma severity and fungal exposure and sensitization. Fungal allergens are a recognized risk factor for severe asthma. We describe the case of a 44-year-old asthmatic whose asthma control deteriorated after moving to a new flat with walls covered in mould. Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis was excluded. Although sensitization to Candida was demonstrated by a positive Candida-specific radioallergosorbent test, the patient did not entirely satisfy the criteria for a diagnosis of allergic bronchopulmonary candidiasis. The patient's asthma control improved after engaging in a monthly washing regimen of the walls. This case further demonstrates the association between fungal sensitization and asthma severity. The term severe asthma with fungal sensitization has been recently coined to describe this phenomenon.

PMID: 20100013 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Derived from flowers, but not benign: Pyrethroids raise new concerns

Derived from flowers, but not benign: Pyrethroids raise new concerns
http://www.environmentalhealthnews.org/ehs/news/pyrethroids-raise-concerns

"Chemicals derived from flowers may sound harmless, but new research raises concerns about compounds synthesized from chrysanthemums that are used in virtually every household pesticide. For at least a decade, pyrethroids have been the insecticide of choice for consumers, replacing organophosphate pesticides, which are far more toxic to people and wildlife. But evidence is mounting that the switch to pyrethroids has brought its own set of new ecological and human health concerns."

Thursday, February 25, 2010

California Adopts Nation's First Statewide Green Building Code

California Adopts Nation's First Statewide Green Building Code
http://archrecord.construction.com/news/daily/archives/2010/100209ca_first_green_building_code.asp

"In a unanimous January 2010 decision, the California Building Standards Commission approved "Calgreen" as the first mandatory statewide green construction code to be adopted in the United States."

Sunscreen's zinc factor ends up in blood

Sunscreen's zinc factor ends up in blood
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/nation/sunscreens-zinc-factor-ends-up-in-blood/story-e6frg6nf-1225834053169
"PEOPLE who use a lot of sunscreen could be at risk of having "larger than normal" quantities of zinc in their bloodstream, with new evidence showing zinc particles penetrate the skin and are absorbed into the body."

Do Toxins Cause Autism?

Do Toxins Cause Autism?
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/02/25/opinion/25kristof.html

"Autism was first identified in 1943 in an obscure medical journal. Since then it has become a frighteningly common affliction, with the Centers for Disease Control reporting recently that autism disorders now affect almost 1 percent of children."

Rates of Chronic Health Problems in Children Soar

Rates of Chronic Health Problems in Children Soar
http://www.organicconsumers.org/articles/article_20290.cfm

"Researchers from Mass General Hospital for Children in Boston gathered data about US children with health problems. They looked at conditions that limited activities and/or schooling, required medication and/or specialized equipment and health services, and that lasted for at least a year. The results of this study, just published in the February issue of JAMA (the Journal of the American Medical Association), show an alarming trend. Chronic health conditions in American kids have increased dramatically in recent years -- rising from 12.8 percent in 1994 to 26.6 percent in 2006."

ASIA: Pesticides pose health risks

ASIA: Pesticides pose health risks
http://www.irinnews.org/Report.aspx?ReportId=88234

"The use of some pesticides in Asian countries has exposed communities across the region to unacceptably high health risks, according to a study conducted by the international Pesticide Action Network (PAN)."

How to Relieve Indoor Winter Allergies

How to Relieve Indoor Winter Allergies
http://www.newsmaxhealth.com/health_stories/indoor_winter_allergies/2010/02/25/313218.html

"Cold winter weather keeps us indoors, and that can mean more allergy problems. Gas fumes, household sprays, indoor mold, and pet dander can all trigger wheezing and runny noses."

Wednesday, February 24, 2010

Can We Cure NO/ONOO (Feb/March 2010) Townsend Letter for Doctors & Patients

Can We Cure NO/ONOO (Feb/March 2010) Townsend Letter for Doctors & Patients

http://www.townsendletter.com/FebMarch2010/cureNO0210.html

Abstract
The NO/ONOO− cycle is a biochemical vicious cycle that is thought to cause such diseases as chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME), multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS), fibromyalgia (FM), and possibly a large number of other chronic inflammatory diseases. The chemistry/biochemistry of the cycle predicts that the primary mechanism is local such the depending on where it is localized in the body, it may cause a variety of different diseases. Previous studies have shown that agents that lower such cycle elements as oxidative stress, nitric oxide, inflammatory responses, mitochondrial dysfunction, tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) depletion and NMDA activity produce clinical improvements in CFS/ME and FM patients, consistent with the predictions of the cycle mechanism. Multiagent protocols lowering several aspects of the cycle appear to be the most promising approaches to therapy. These include an entirely over-the-counter nutritional support protocol developed by the author in conjunction with the Allergy Research Group. However, such mulitagent protocols to date have not produced any substantial numbers of cures of these presumed NO/ONOO− cycle disease. Why is that? This paper argues that what is called the central couplet of the cycle, the reciprocal relation between peroxynitrite elevation and BH4 depletion, is not being adequately downregulated by these multiagent protocols. Ten agents/classes of agents are available, each of which downregulates one or the other end of this central couplet. It is suggested, then, that treatments that simultaneously effectively downregulate both ends to the central couplet, when used along with multiagent protocols lowering other aspects of the cycle and avoidance of stressors that otherwise upregulate the cycle, will lead to substantial numbers of cures of these chronic diseases.

Tuesday, February 23, 2010

Electrosmog can be bad for health

Electrosmog can be bad for health
http://www.chroniclejournal.com/stories_local.php?id=245505

"People may not realize the amount of 'electrosmog' that surrounds them every day. Students, faculty, and the public had the opportunity gain some information about the hazards of electrosmog – various forms of wireless technology – on their health as part of the Lakehead University Speaker Series held Monday night in the Agora.

"When we are talking about wifi, we're really talking about the tip of the iceberg," Dr. Magda Havas explained during her presentation."

What's in Household Dust? You Don't Want to Know

What's in Household Dust? You Don't Want to Know
http://www.time.com/time/printout/0,8816,1966870,00.html

"It's hard to get too worked up about dust. Yes, it's a nuisance, but it's hardly one that causes us much anxiety — and our language itself suggests as much. We call those clumps of the stuff under the bed dust bunnies, after all, not, say, dust vermin.

But there's a higher ick factor to dust than you might think. And there's a science to how it gets around — a science that David Layton and Paloma Beamer, professors of environmental policy at the University of Arizona, are exploring. (See the top 10 scientific discoveries of 2009.)"

Call for proposals on law & public health

Call for proposals on law & public health
The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation's Public Health Law Research program has announced a call for proposals for studies that will examine the public health impacts of laws and legal practices. The deadline for submitting a preliminary proposal is April 14, 2010. For more information, please visit:
http://www.publichealthlawresearch.org/.

EPA Hosts Online Town Hall Meeting

EPA Hosts Online Town Hall Meeting
http://www.epa.gov/oswer/videotownhall.htm

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is hosting a live online town hall meeting on February 23, 2010, from 1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. EST. Mathy Stanislaus, assistant administrator for EPA's Office of Solid Waste and Emergency Response, along with other EPA officials, will answer questions on how to reduce your carbon footprint. EPA will also engage viewers in the ongoing environmental justice discussion of the 2008 Definition of Solid Waste rule.

Fibromyalgia Coalition International 10th Annual Fibromyalgia & Chronic Fatigue Conference Set for May 14-15 in Kansas City (Metro)

Fibromyalgia Coalition International 10th Annual Fibromyalgia & Chronic Fatigue Conference Set for May 14-15 in Kansas City (Metro)

http://www.pr.com/press-release/214343

"The Fibromyalgia Coalition International (FCI) will be hosting its 10th annual Fibromyalgia & Chronic Fatigue Conference on May 14-15 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Lenexa, Kansas."

World's top firms cause $2.2tn of environmental damage, report estimates

World's top firms cause $2.2tn of environmental damage, report estimates http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2010/feb/18/worlds-top-firms-environmental-damage

"Report for the UN into the activities of the world's 3,000 biggest companies estimates one-third of profits would be lost if firms were forced to pay for use, loss and damage of environment"

Monday, February 22, 2010

Chemicals In Toys, Furniture May Face Tighter Standards

Chemicals In Toys, Furniture May Face Tighter Standards
http://abcnews.go.com/print?id=9875081

"Chemical Industry Now Open to Regulation; Bill Expected Soon"

UQ scholarship student shows Chronic Fatigue is no match for persistence

UQ scholarship student shows Chronic Fatigue is no match for persistence
http://www.uq.edu.au/news/?article=20659

"First year UQ student, Clarissa Womack, hopes that her persistence and ability to stay focused will be an inspiration to those who have a medical condition, when she finally begins her Bachelor of Engineering/ Bachelor of Science in March.

Having suffered from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) for more than seven years, the 19-year-old graduated from The Brisbane School of Distance Education last year with an OP1."

Sunday, February 21, 2010

Electroshocker: A Prevention Special Report

Electroshocker: A Prevention Special Report
http://health.msn.com/health-topics/articlepage.aspx?cp-documentid=100251510&page=1

"The 'electrosmog' that surrounds us—from cell phones, WiFi, and commonplace modern technology—may be seriously harming our health. Here's how to minimize your exposure."

Saturday, February 20, 2010

Audiologic disturbances in long-term mobile phone users.

Audiologic disturbances in long-term mobile phone users.

Panda NK, Jain R, Bakshi J, Munjal S.

J Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2010 Feb 1;39(1):5-11.

Department of Otolaryngology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India.

INTRODUCTION: There is general concern regarding the possible hazardous health effects of exposure to radiofrequency electromagnetic radiation emitted from mobile phones. This study aimed to assess the effects of chronic exposure to electromagnetic waves emitted from Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM) mobile phones on auditory functions.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: A retrospective, cross-sectional, randomized, case control study was carried out in a tertiary care hospital. One hundred twelve subjects who were long-term mobile phone users (more than 1 year) and 50 controls who had never used a mobile phone underwent a battery of audiologic investigations including pure-tone audiometry (both speech and high frequency), tympanometry, distortion product otoacoustic emissions, auditory brain responses, and middle latency responses. Changes in the various parameters were studied in the mobile phone- and non-mobile phone-using ears of subjects and corresponding ears of the controls to ascertain the effects of electromagnetic exposure.

RESULTS: There was no significant difference between users and controls for any of the audiologic parameters. However, trends for audiologic abnormalities were seen within the users. High-frequency loss and absent distortion product otoacoustic emissions were observed with an increase in the duration of mobile phone use, excessive use of mobile phones, and age more than 30 years. Additionally, users with some complaints during mobile phone use demonstrated absent distortion product otoacoustic emissions and abnormalities in auditory brainstem response.

CONCLUSION: Long-term and intensive mobile phone use may cause inner ear damage. A large sample size would be required to reach definitive conclusions.

PMID: 20122338 [PubMed - in process]

MN Lyme Patients have Reason for Hope as Lyme Bill gets Second Hearing at Capitol

http://www.webwire.com/ViewPressRel.asp?aId=112897

"Minnesota Lyme activists and opponents assembled before the House Health Care and Human Services Policy and Oversight Committee to give testimony for HF 2597, a bill that would limit the "Board of Medical Practice from bringing a disciplinary action against a physician for prescribing, administering, or dispensing long-term antibiotic therapy for chronic Lyme disease.""

Bill calls for cell phone radiation disclosure

Bill calls for cell phone radiation disclosure
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2010/02/19/BATV1C3PRE.DTL&type=printable

"Californians may soon easily know how much radiation is being emitted by their cellular phones under legislation introduced at the Capitol on Thursday."

Former nurse protests

Former nurse protests
http://www.highrivertimes.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=2457594

"A single protester has spent the last couple of weeks marching up and down the sidewalk in front of the High River Hospital in an effort to make her personal battle with Alberta Health Services public."

Parent says 'nobody took us seriously' regarding mold at school

Parent says 'nobody took us seriously' regarding mold at school
http://www.wect.com/Global/story.asp?S=12014401

"Staff at the school believed the student was using the cough as a way to get attention. They claim she would stop coughing when she made it down to the nurse's station.
But all of it is too late for this parent, who moved his daughter to another school after Thanksgiving break.

"She's never had any respiratory issues prior, and since she's been out she's been fine, hasn't been to the doctor, hasn't coughed, nothing - it disappeared," said the parent."

Chemicals suspected in breast cancer, US experts want tests

Chemicals suspected in breast cancer, US experts want tests
http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5iwbkFk-mnW7cy_CO8aEKBsmq6f7w

"US experts called Friday for toxicity tests on chemicals they suspect play a role in the development of breast cancer, a leading cause of death in American women."

Electric polarization and the viability of living systems: ion cyclotron resonance-like interactions.

Electric polarization and the viability of living systems: ion cyclotron resonance-like interactions.

Liboff AR.

Electromagn Biol Med. 2009;28(2):124-34.

Center for Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton, Florida 33431, USA. arliboff@aol.com

Wellness can be described in physical terms as a state that is a function of the organism's electric polarization vector P(r, t). One can alter P by invasive application of electric fields or by non invasive external pulsed magnetic fields (PMF) or ion cyclotron resonance (ICR)-like combinations of static and sinusoidal magnetic fields. Changes in human (total) body bioimpedance are significantly altered during exposure to ICR magnetic field combinations. The conductivities of polar amino acids in solution exhibit sharp discontinuities at ICR magnetic fields tuned to the specific charge to mass ratio of the amino acid. It has been reported that protein peptide bonds are broken by such amino acid ICR fields. Remarkably, some of these effects are only found at ultra-low AC magnetic intensities, on the order of .05 muT. This is approximately 10(3) below accepted levels determined by engineering estimates. Such strikingly low magnetic intensities imply the existence of physically equivalent endogenous weak electric field oscillations. These observations not only make claims related to electromagnetic pollution more credible but also provide a basis for future electromagnetic applications in medicine. They also reinforce the notion that physical factors acting to influence the electric polarization in living organisms play a key role in biology.

PMID: 19811395 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Test Post Blog

Test post blog... no need to respond.

The Program on Reproductive Health and the Environment (PRHE

The Program on Reproductive Health and the Environment (PRHE)
http://prhe.ucsf.edu/prhe/

North Oakland Charter School fights cell phone tower

North Oakland Charter School fights cell phone tower
http://oaklandlocal.com/article/north-oakland-charter-school-fights-cell-phone-tower

"North Oakland Community Charter School Children Play Near Proposed Cell Tower

A group of concerned parents at an Oakland elementary school are raising concerns about a possible decision to place nine Verizon cellular antennas across the street from the school and an adjacent park."

Friday, February 19, 2010

Fundy lobster deaths blamed on pesticide

Fundy lobster deaths blamed on pesticide
Environment Canada investigating after pesticide found in bay
http://www.cbc.ca/technology/story/2010/02/17/nb-lobster-fund-pesticide-1209.html

"Fishermen are furious a pesticide normally used for agriculture ended up in the Bay of Fundy and may have contributed to the death of hundreds of lobsters."

Are Cell Phone Antennas on Apartment Buildings Safe?

Are Cell Phone Antennas on Apartment Buildings Safe?
http://www.magdahavas.com/2010/02/17/are-cell-phone-antennas-on-apartment-buildings-safe/

"In December 2009 an array of cell phone antennas was placed on an apartment building in downtown Toronto, much to the surprise of the residents who first became aware of this construction as the cranes moved in. Watch the video and listen to what one woman experienced."

Toxic chemical release forces Pasadena residents to shelter-in-place

Toxic chemical release forces Pasadena residents to shelter-in-place
http://www.kvue.com/news/state/Toxic-chemical-release-forces-Pasadena-residents-to-shelter-in-place-84591702.html

"Worried homeowners in Pasadena spent Tuesday evening behind closed doors, as a toxic cloud of nitric oxide drifted slowly overhead."

Helping them Deal

Helping them Deal
http://www.58wchs.com/includes/news_items/7/news_items_more.php?id=2281&section_id=7http://www.58wchs.com/includes/news_items/7/news_items_more.php?id=2281&section_id=7

"The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is busy putting the finishing touchings on a report involving veterans with Gulf War Syndrome. During a stop Wednesday afternoon at the Veterans Center on Charleston's West Side, Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric Shinseki and U.S. Senator Jay Rockefeller discussed the disorder with those suffering from its effects."

Adolescent Offspring of Mothers With Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.

Adolescent Offspring of Mothers With Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.

Journal: J Adolesc Health. 2010 Mar;46(3):284-291. Epub 2009 Oct 13.

Authors: Smith MS, Buchwald DS, Bogart A, Goldberg J, Smith WR, Afari N.

Affiliation: Department of Pediatrics, University of Washington,
Seattle, Washington.

NLM Citation: PMID: 20159507

PURPOSE: The goal of this study was to determine whether adolescent
offspring of mothers with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) have higher
prevalence of CFS and report more fatigue, greater pain sensitivity,
more sleep problems, and poorer cardiopulmonary fitness in comparison
with offspring with no exposure to maternal CFS.

METHODS: A total of 26 adolescent offspring of 20 mothers diagnosed
with CFS were compared with 45 adolescent offspring of 30 age-matched
healthy control mothers. Study measures included structured
interviews and medical and laboratory examinations for CFS; tender
point examination; maximum oxygen uptake and perceived exertion;
dolorimetry pain ratings; and questionnaires on fatigue severity and
sleepiness.

RESULTS: In comparison with offspring of healthy mothers, those
exposed to mothers with CFS reported higher prevalence of fatigue of
at least 1-month duration (23% vs. 4%), fatigue of 6 months or longer
(15% vs. 2%), and met criteria for CFS (12% vs. 2%), although these
differences only approached statistical significance. CFS and healthy
mothers differed on almost all study outcomes, but offspring groups
did not differ on measures of current fatigue severity, pain
sensitivity, sleep, mean number of tender points, and cardiopulmonary fitness.

CONCLUSIONS: The higher prevalence of fatiguing states in offspring
of CFS mothers, despite the lack of statistical significance,
suggests that familial factors may potentially play a role in
developing chronically fatiguing states. Alternately, perturbations
in pain sensitivity and cardiopulmonary fitness may be consequences
of CFS. Future studies should focus on examining the impact of
maternal CFS and associated disability on psychosocial functioning of
offspring.

Responses to odors in occupational environments.

Responses to odors in occupational environments.

Curr Opin Allergy Clin Immunol. 2010 Feb 12;
Authors: Dalton PH, Jaén C
Monell Chemical Senses Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20160642?dopt=Abstract

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: There is mounting evidence that the presence of airborne chemicals that produce odor and irritation can be a significant impediment to a productive and healthy workforce, even among individuals without chemical sensitivity.

RECENT FINDINGS: Studies investigating odor and irritant-induced symptoms in occupational environments suggest that poor indoor air quality, coupled with psychosocial factors such as the work environment, personality and stress, can lead to the development of building-related complaints and exacerbate chemical intolerance and symptoms. The practice of introducing pleasant odors in the workplace to improve productivity and mood is not well supported by current research.

SUMMARY: Managing the response to odors and irritants in the workplace is critical to maintaining the health and well being of workers. There is a critical need for regulatory organizations in the United States and elsewhere to harmonize guidelines for occupational exposure limits. In addition, management must engage in risk communication and education of workers in order to ensure that misperception of risk from odors does not lead to illness and loss of well being.

PMID: 20160642 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

Report on Marines' water omitted cancer chemical

Report on Marines' water omitted cancer chemical http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20100217/ap_on_re_us/us_toxic_tap_water

"WILMINGTON, N.C. – An environmental contractor dramatically underreported the level of a cancer-causing chemical found in tap water at Camp Lejeune, then omitted it altogether as the Marine base prepared for a federal health review, an Associated Press review has found."

Final Rule Reduces Air Toxics from Existing Stationary Diesel Engines

Final Rule Reduces Air Toxics from Existing Stationary Diesel Engines

http://www.epa.gov/ttn/oarpg/new.html

Emissions reductions will save lives and protect health

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is setting the first standards that will reduce emissions of formaldehyde, benzene, acrolein and other toxic air pollutants from certain stationary diesel engines. These pollutants are known or suspected to cause cancer or other serious health problems and environmental damage.

French Beekeepers Warn of Losses Because of New Bayer Pesticide

French Beekeepers Warn of Losses Because of New Bayer Pesticide
http://www.businessweek.com/news/2010-02-17/french-beekeepers-warn-of-losses-because-of-new-bayer-pesticide.html

"France's beekeepers union forecast "massive" losses of bees this spring as the country's farmers apply Bayer CropScience AG's insecticide Proteus for the first time after the product received French approval last year.

"We're very concerned," said Sophie Dugue, a professional beekeeper and a member of the National Union of French Apiculture, or UNAF, at a press conference in Paris today. "We'll see massive poisoning starting this spring.""

German wide cross sectional survey on health impacts of electromagnetic fields in the view of general practitioners.

German wide cross sectional survey on health impacts of electromagnetic fields in the view of general practitioners.

Kowall B, Breckenkamp J, Heyer K, Berg-Beckhoff G.
Int J Public Health. 2009 Dec 18. [Epub ahead of print]

Department of Epidemiology and International Public Health, School of Public Health, University of Bielefeld, PO 100131, 33501, Bielefeld, Germany.

OBJECTIVES: The proportion of general practitioners (GPs) in Germany who assume health impacts of electromagnetic fields (EMF) is assessed. Moreover, factors associated with this risk perception are examined.

METHODS: A 7% random sample was drawn from online lists of all the GPs working in Germany. 1,867 doctors received a long version of a self-administered postal questionnaire about EMF and health (response rate 23.3%), 928 doctors received a short version (response rate 49.1%).

RESULTS: 37.3% of responders to the short and 57.5% of responders to the long questionnaire agreed "that there are persons whose health complaints are caused by EMF when legal limit values are met". A late responder analysis for the survey with the short questionnaire led to a still lower estimate of 29% for GPs believing in health-relevant effects of EMF.

CONCLUSION: About a third of German GPs associate EMF with health complaints and thus deviate considerably from current scientific knowledge. To avoid a strong selection bias in the surveys of the perception of EMF risks, use of short questionnaires and late responder analysis are recommended.

PMID: 20020175 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

Functional impairment in chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, and multiple chemical sensitivity.

Functional impairment in chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, and multiple chemical sensitivity.

Lavergne MR, Cole DC, Kerr K, Marshall LM.

Can Fam Physician. 2010 Feb;56(2):e57-65.

Women's College Hospital, Family and Community Medicine, 76 Grenville St, Toronto, ON M5S 1B2. k.kerr@utoronto.ca.

OBJECTIVE: To characterize patients diagnosed with multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS), chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), or fibromyalgia (FM), to compare their level of function with Canadian population average values, and to assess factors associated with function. DESIGN: Chart review and abstraction of clinical information.

SETTING: The Environmental Health Clinic (EHC) at Women's College Hospital in Toronto, Ont, which is a provincial referral centre for patients with illnesses with suspected environmental links, especially MCS, CFS, and FM. PARTICPANTS: A total of 128 consecutive patients diagnosed with 1 or more of MCS, CFS, or FM, seen between January 2005 and March 2006 at the EHC.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Demographic and socioeconomic characteristics, comorbid diagnoses, duration of illness, health services usage, life stresses, helpful therapeutic strategies, and functional impairment measured by the Short Form-36, compared with Canadian population average values. Factors significantly associated with function in bivariate analyses were included in multiple linear and logistic regression models.

RESULTS: The patient population was predominantly female (86.7%), with a mean age of 44.6 years. Seventy-eight patients had discrete diagnoses of 1 of MCS, CFS, or FM, while the remainder had 2 or 3 overlapping diagnoses. Most (68.8%) had stopped work, and on average this had occurred 3 years after symptom onset. On every Short Form-36 subscale, patients had markedly lower functional scores than population average values, more so when they had 2 or 3 of these diagnoses. Having FM, younger age at onset, and lower socioeconomic status were most consistently associated with poor function.

CONCLUSION: Patients seen at the EHC demonstrated marked functional impairment, consistent with their reported difficulties working and caring for their homes and families during what should be their peak productive years. Early comprehensive assessment, medical management, and social and financial support might avoid the deterioration of function associated with prolonged illness. Education and information resources are required for health care professionals and the public, along with further etiologic and prognostic research.

PMID: 20154232 [PubMed - in process]

Getting the lead out: Rule targets Illinois' top child environmental illness

Getting the lead out: Rule targets Illinois' top child environmental illness
http://news.medill.northwestern.edu/chicago/news.aspx?id=156962

"The state took a step Tuesday to reduce lead poisoning, the No. 1 environmental illness in Illinois children, according to health officials."

Westford artist uses recycled material

http://www.tauntongazette.com/arts/x1762222486/Westford-artist-uses-recycled-material

"She discovered that she was an environmentalist through illness. She was out of school for four years in high school due to environmental illness.

"I was allergic to a lot of the chemicals they were using in my school building. They were doing a lot of renovations at the time and using things like airplane paint. Utilities workers walking around with masks but you would see the students walking around the same space with no masks."

Thursday, February 18, 2010

Responses to odors in occupational environments.

Responses to odors in occupational environments.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20160642?dopt=Abstract\

Curr Opin Allergy Clin Immunol. 2010 Feb 12;
Authors: Dalton PH, Jaén C
Monell Chemical Senses Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: There is mounting evidence that the presence of airborne chemicals that produce odor and irritation can be a significant impediment to a productive and healthy workforce, even among individuals without chemical sensitivity.

RECENT FINDINGS: Studies investigating odor and irritant-induced symptoms in occupational environments suggest that poor indoor air quality, coupled with psychosocial factors such as the work environment, personality and stress, can lead to the development of building-related complaints and exacerbate chemical intolerance and symptoms. The practice of introducing pleasant odors in the workplace to improve productivity and mood is not well supported by current research.

SUMMARY: Managing the response to odors and irritants in the workplace is critical to maintaining the health and well being of workers. There is a critical need for regulatory organizations in the United States and elsewhere to harmonize guidelines for occupational exposure limits. In addition, management must engage in risk communication and education of workers in order to ensure that misperception of risk from odors does not lead to illness and loss of well being.

PMID: 20160642 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

Glaxo to Remove Zinc From Denture Cream

Glaxo to Remove Zinc From Denture Cream

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748703315004575073521115246594.html?mod=WSJ_latestheadlines

"GlaxoSmithKline PLC Thursday warned consumers about denture creams that contain zinc and said it had taken "voluntary, precautionary" measures to stop making and supplying those products, which it said had been linked with health problems if used excessively over a long period."

1 in 3 likely to get asthma, study says

1 in 3 likely to get asthma, study says
http://www.healthzone.ca/health/newsfeatures/article/766014--1-in-3-likely-to-get-asthma-study-says

"Researchers were surprised to discover that the lifetime risk of being diagnosed with asthma is 33.9 per cent, a probability comparable to that of being diagnosed with diabetes or cancer, the study's authors noted."

Wednesday, February 17, 2010

Chronic health conditions increasing in children, study finds

Chronic health conditions increasing in children, study finds
http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/nation/la-sci-child-health17-2010feb17,0,456579.story

"The rates are higher and the illnesses are different than in previous generations, researchers say, with youths suffering from attention deficit disorder, obesity and asthma.

More than a quarter of all U.S. children have a chronic health condition, new research suggests, a significant increase from the rate seen in earlier decades and a statistic that looms large for the nation's efforts to subdue rising healthcare costs."

Air Canada proposes nut-free buffer zones on flights

Air Canada proposes nut-free buffer zones on flights
http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/article/766482--air-canada-proposes-nut-free-buffer-zones-on-flights?bn=1

"Air Canada said it is willing to create "nut-free" buffer zones on its flights to accommodate passengers with severe nut allergies."

Human Testing at Heart of Debate Over U.S. Toxics Law

Human Testing at Heart of Debate Over U.S. Toxics Law

http://www.nytimes.com/gwire/2010/02/15/15greenwire-human-testing-at-heart-of-debate-over-us-toxic-77544.html?pagewanted=print

"Scienfic advances that have made it possible to detect the tiniest traces of chemicals in the human body and the environment are shaping efforts to modernize U.S. chemical policies and regulations."

Tuesday, February 16, 2010

Can chemicals in food make you fat?

Can chemicals in food make you fat?
http://www.genesysinstitute.com/blog/55-latest-news/207-can-chemicals-in-food-make-you-fat

"Can all the chemicals that are found in today's American diet contribute to obesity? Stephen Perrine, the author of The New American Diet thinks that it can. He argues that plastic pollutants, pesticides, and the use of antibiotics may contribute to your girth around the middle."

Not exactly a ringing endorsement

Not exactly a ringing endorsement
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/02/12/AR2010021204438.html

"A long-awaited study by the International Agency for Cancer Research -- an arm of the World Health Organization -- will attempt to give the world's billions of cellphone users a better informed perspective; the findings are now in the midst of peer review for publication. The so-called Interphone study looks at the results of published national studies in 13 countries (the list includes Canada, eight European nations, Australia, New Zealand, Japan and Israel, but not the United States) to assess whether radio-frequency radiation exposure from cellphones is associated with cancer risk."

Human Testing at Heart of Debate Over U.S. Toxics Law

Human Testing at Heart of Debate Over U.S. Toxics Law

http://www.nytimes.com/gwire/2010/02/15/15greenwire-human-testing-at-heart-of-debate-over-us-toxic-77544.html?pagewanted=print

"Scientific advances that have made it possible to detect the tiniest traces of chemicals in the human body and the environment are shaping efforts to modernize U.S. chemical policies and regulations."

Monday, February 15, 2010

Study: Chemicals, pollutants found in newborns

Study: Chemicals, pollutants found in newborns

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/12/03/MN5I1ATVS2.DTL&type=printable

"Chemicals from cosmetics, perfumes and other fragrances were detected along with dozens of other industrial compounds in the umbilical cords of African American, Asian and Latino infants in the United States, according to a national study released Wednesday.

Laboratory tests paid for by the nonprofit Environmental Working Group and Rachel's Network found 232 chemicals and pollutants in the umbilical cords of the 10 babies tested in five states between December 2007 and June 2008."

Breast Cancer Fears Grow Around Household Cleaners

Breast Cancer Fears Grow Around Household Cleaners
http://www.dailyfinance.com/story/breat-cancer-fears-grow-around-household-cleaners/19307599/#

"That fresh clean smell that American's love may be boosting cases of breast cancer in the U.S.-- and possibly even causing breast cancer in young children, let alone their moms."

Anger fuels water-fluoridation debate in Watsonville

Anger fuels water-fluoridation debate in Watsonville
http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-fluoride15-2010feb15,0,6103084,print.story

"The Santa Cruz County town, which officials say is experiencing a dental-decay epidemic, voted in 2002 to block fluoridation of the city's water. The City Council is moving closer to approval. The editorial in the Watsonville Register-Pajaronian offered local voters some blunt advice: "Shield your eyes," it said, "because the City Council is preparing to spit in your face.""

Pesticide exposure, family history raise risk of prostate cancer.

Pesticide exposure, family history raise risk of prostate cancer.
http://www.environmentalhealthnews.org/ehs/newscience/insecticide-plus-family-history-raise-risk-of-prostate-cancer/

"A study of professional pesticide applicators suggests that exposure to the insecticide coumaphos may increase their risk of prostate cancer if they had a family history of the disease."

A Wake Up Story

A Wake Up Story
http://awakeupstory.healthychild.org/?utm_source=Facebook&utm_medium=blog&utm_campaign=awakeupstory

Sunday, February 14, 2010

Developmental delay in brain provides clue to sensory hypersensitivity in autism

Developmental delay in brain provides clue to sensory hypersensitivity in autism
http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2010-02/cp-ddi020510.php

"New research provides insight into why fragile X syndrome, the most common known cause of autism and mental retardation, is associated with an extreme hypersensitivity to sounds, touch, smells, and visual stimuli that causes sensory overload and results in social withdrawal, hyperarousal, and anxiety. The study, published by Cell Press in the February 11 issue of the journal Neuron, uncovers a previously unknown developmental delay in a critical brain circuit that processes sensory information in a mouse model of fragile X syndrome."

Headache may linger years later in people exposed to World Trade Center dust, fumes

Headache may linger years later in people exposed to World Trade Center dust, fumes
http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2010-02/aaon-hml020210.php

"Workers and residents exposed to dust and fumes caused by the collapse of the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001 frequently reported headache years later, according to research released today that will be presented at the American Academy of Neurology's 62nd Annual Meeting in Toronto April 10 to April 17, 2010."

Why McGill is dispensing with hand sanitizers

Why McGill is dispensing with hand sanitizers
http://publications.mcgill.ca/reporter/2010/02/10/why-mcgill-is-dispensing-with-hand-sanitizers/

"Furthermore, there is actually no conclusive evidence that hand sanitizers provide a degree of protection from the flu that is any greater than is provided through regular hand washing, proper sneezing/coughing etiquette and choosing to stay home when sick."

Underactive thyroid linked to pesticide exposure

Underactive thyroid linked to pesticide exposure
http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE61B54U20100212

"Exposure to certain types of pesticides could up the risk of thyroid disease in women, according to a new study of thousands of women married to licensed pesticide applicators."

Saturday, February 13, 2010

Electromagnetic Radiation Awareness Month Event Planning Kit

Electromagnetic Radiation Awareness Month Event Planning Kit
http://www.mcs-america.org/emreventplanningkit.pdf

Toxicologists say methyl iodide poses health risks

Toxicologists say methyl iodide poses health risks
http://www.vcstar.com/news/2010/feb/11/toxicologists-say-methyl-iodide-poses-health/

"An independent panel of toxicologists, asked last fall by state regulators to assess the potential risks of a controversial new soil fumigant called methyl iodide, released a report Thursday saying it presents "significant health risks for workers and the general population.""

Woman is bedridden in the dark with ME for 14 years

Woman is bedridden in the dark with ME for 14 years
http://news.bbc.co.uk/local/leicester/hi/people_and_places/newsid_8497000/8497905.stm

"Chronic fatigue patients constantly battle tiredness
Imagine feeling so ill that even the soothing voices of your loved ones cause you excruciating pain.

Amy Bakewell, 31, from Thornton has spent most of the last 14 years of her life confined to her bed as a sufferer of myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME)."

Making Sense of Scent Issues at Work

Making Sense of Scent Issues at Work
http://hrhero.com/hl/articles/2010/02/11/making-sense-of-scent-issues-at-work/?HLW

"It seems that the number of people with allergies or sensitivities to various scents and smells has grown substantially. Some of those allergies can be severe, causing severe respiratory difficulties and other serious health issues. Questions continue to arise about the often competing rights of allergic employees and coworkers who wish to be able to eat what they want and use whatever hygiene and personal products they choose. Read on for the most recent information on this conflict for employers."

Friday, February 12, 2010

I-Team: What's in Your Walls?

I-Team: What's in Your Walls?
http://www.todaystmj4.com/news/local/84191972.html

"A big I-Team Investigation uncovers hidden dangers inside Milwaukee area homes. We're not talking about lead paint and pipes, asbestos, or mold. We all know to watch out for those. This is a warning about toxic chemicals that seep into the walls, floors, and ceilings, and stay there for years. The biggest problem: people in our area aren't always warned before they move in."

Organic flowers for Valentine's Day? Why some shoppers are buying green instead of red this year

Organic flowers for Valentine's Day? Why some shoppers are buying green instead of red this year
http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/home_blog/2010/02/sustainable-organic-flowers-valentines-day.html

"When Jim Tripp sends a Valentine's Day bouquet to wife Lauren, he makes sure the flowers are grown locally.

"It's important to support organic farmers and make a conscious choice about where our money goes," says Tripp, Aramark's general manager for sports, entertainment and conventions at the Anaheim Convention Center. "Every time I pull out my checkbook, I can make a difference."

According to the Society of American Florists, 187 million roses are produced for Valentine's Day alone, but only a fraction are sustainably or organically grown. As the base of eco-conscious consumers grows, flowers are joining paints, cabinets, floors and cleaning products in the realm of green shopping.

The key question: What makes flowers green?"

Environmentalists urge pesticide study

Environmentalists urge pesticide study

http://www.unionleader.com/article.aspx?headline=Environmentalists%20urge%20pesticide%20study&articleId=9d54df7d-6621-446f-bb7b-78af5ede009c

"CONCORD – Environmentalists are pushing lawmakers to form a committee to study the effects of pesticides on children, but lawn care businesses object to the study, saying it would lead to a ban on chemicals important to their work."

Study: Bay Area girls have higher chemical levels than others

Study: Bay Area girls have higher chemical levels than others
http://www.marinij.com/marinnews/ci_14384529

"A new study has found higher levels of chemicals that act like hormones in girls in the Bay Area than in a comparison group in Ohio."

Ill workers blame mold in building

Ill workers blame mold in building
http://chronicle.augusta.com/news/metro/2010-02-11/ill-workers-blame-mold-building?v=1265853365

"While water leaks are at the forefront of employee's minds, a much bigger problem is growing behind the walls of the Richmond County Law Enforcement Center.

Sheriff's Col. Gary Powell works in his Richmond County Law Enforcement Center office, where black mold is growing on the window sill. He says tests proved his headaches, sore throats and breathing problems are caused by mold allergies: "I'm allergic to molds and horses -- and I ain't around horses.""

Finally, Good-Looking Non-Toxic Paint?

Finally, Good-Looking Non-Toxic Paint?
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/02/11/garden/11roadtest.html

"I tested 10 brands of environmentally friendly indoor paints, which are very low in, or free of, volatile organic compounds, or V.O.C.'s — toxic chemicals like benzene and formaldehyde found in traditional paints, which can be released into the air for years after the paint has dried and have been linked to a number of health problems, including asthma and cancer."

Study finds number of toxic chemicals in people

Study finds number of toxic chemicals in people

http://www.necn.com/02/10/10/Study-finds-number-of-toxic-chemicals-in/landing.html?blockID=178637&feedID=4215

"Farber says she tries hard to limit her family's exposure to harmful chemicals... so she was expecting pretty good results. But all six had at least half of the 66 chemicals tested for in their systems."

Wednesday, February 10, 2010

Woman's death after chemical spill leads to search for answers

Woman's death after chemical spill leads to search for answers
http://www.sdnn.com/sandiego/2010-02-10/environment/womans-death-after-chemical-spill-leads-to-search-for-answers

"Hope Goodwin moved to Valley Center to retire with her mother, Joye, two decades ago.

Together, the two raised championship horses and Great Danes, grew dozens of organic fruits and vegetables and were about to go into the business of farming organic garlic and Sea-buckthorn.

It was a return to a life of farming but a break from Joye's previous life — a nurse for more than four decades, and founder of Children Having Children, a southeast San Diego non-profit that supports teen parents and works to prevent teen pregnancy.

But the Goodwins' lives would forever change on Nov. 16, 2006, when an EDCO garbage truck lifting a dumpster in their back yard ruptured a hydraulic line, spraying fluid on to the ground, into the air and across the property."

Passenger finds herself perfuma non grata on bus

Passenger finds herself perfuma non grata on bus
http://www.thestarphoenix.com/life/Passenger+finds+herself+perfuma+grata/2543858/story.html

"Saskatoon Transit banned Alice Dwornik from one bus route because the designer perfume she dabs on herself every morning bothers the route's regular driver."

Family loses 2nd child in suspected pesticide poisoning

Family loses 2nd child in suspected pesticide poisoning
http://www.ksl.com/?nid=148&sid=9629232

"LAYTON -- Three days after 4-year-old Rebecca Toone, of Layton, died from apparent exposure to a pesticide, her 15-month-old sister, Rachel, passed away. Both girls died after having similar symptoms just days after their home was treated to get rid of rodents."

Weed killer atrazine may be linked to birth defect

Weed killer atrazine may be linked to birth defect
http://uk.reuters.com/article/idUKTRE6174DW20100208

"Living near farms that use the weed killer atrazine may up the risk of a rare birth defect, according to a study presented this past Friday at the annual meeting of the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine in Chicago.

About 1 in 5000 babies born in the U.S. each year suffers from gastroschisis, in which part of the intestines bulges through a separation in the belly, according to the March of Dimes. The rate of gastroschisis has risen 2- to 4-fold over the last three decades, according to Dr. Sarah Waller, of the University of Washington, Seattle, and colleagues."

One-woman fight for pesticide ban

One-woman fight for pesticide ban
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/8504665.stm

"The government has launched a consultation on the use of pesticides by UK farmers. In part it is doing so because of the actions of a lone campaigner. Georgina Downs is in the 10th year of a one-woman battle."

Killer pesticide? Layton girl dies, toddler sister hospitalized

Killer pesticide? Layton girl dies, toddler sister hospitalized
http://www.sltrib.com/ci_14358302

"The 15-month-old sister of a Layton girl who died Saturday has been hospitalized in critical condition as investigators try to understand the role a pest-control chemical might have played in making the girls and their family sick."

US Senate Investigates Chemicals in People

US Senate Investigates Chemicals in People
http://www.ewg.org/kid-safe-chemicals-act-blog/2010/02/senate-investigates-chemicals-in-people/

"From bisphenol A (BPA) to flame retardants and beyond, industrial chemicals that have troubling connections to a host of human health problems and are widely used in consumer products came under tough scrutiny before a U.S. Senate hearing this week (Feb. 4)."

Tuesday, February 9, 2010

Girl killed by lethal rodent chemical that seeped into Utah residence

Girl killed by lethal rodent chemical that seeped into Utah residence
http://www.justicenewsflash.com/2010/02/09/carbon-monoxide-fumes-killed-1-injured-11-kansas-2_201002093282.html

"Legal news for Utah personal injury attorneys. A 4-year-old girl was killed by a toxic chemical that wafted into a family's home."

ASHRAE Receives NIST Grant to Study IAQ in Retail Stores

ASHRAE Receives NIST Grant to Study IAQ in Retail Stores
American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers
http://news.thomasnet.com/companystory/572633

"ASHRAE has been awarded $1.5 million dollars in grant money from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to conduct a three-year research project on ventilation and indoor air quality in retail stores."

Lyme disease: 'I knew whatever was troubling me wasn't a sports injury'

Lyme disease: 'I knew whatever was troubling me wasn't a sports injury'

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/health/article7016850.ece

"Surfer Alex Wade had to give up his beloved sport because of a degenerative spinal injury — then he got Lyme disease and his troubles really began."

Carcinogens Form from Third-Hand Smoke

Carcinogens Form from Third-Hand Smoke
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/02/100208154651.htm

"Given the rapid sorption and persistence of high levels of nicotine on indoor surfaces, including clothing and human skin, our findings indicate that third-hand smoke represents an unappreciated health hazard through dermal exposure, dust inhalation and ingestion."

Monday, February 8, 2010

Toilet paper is major emitter of bisphenol-A

Toilet paper is major emitter of bisphenol-A
http://www.buildinggreen.com/live/index.cfm/2008/8/26/Toilet-paper-bisphenol-A-wastewater-recycle d

"As a key component in polycarbonate plastics such as those used for reusable water bottles, baby bottles, canned-food liners, and some building materials, bisphenol-A (BPA) has become the new chemical to fear."

POLICE RADIOS BLAMED FOR PC'S CANCER DEATH

Police Radios Blamed for PC's Cancer Death

http://www.express.co.uk/posts/view/156702/Police-radios-blamed-for-PC-s-cancer-death

"DOZENS of police forces are facing compensation claims from officers over radios they say make them ill and have been blamed by the family of one officer for his death from cancer."

AAN: Industrial Cleaner Again Tied to Parkinson Risk

AAN: Industrial Cleaner Again Tied to Parkinson Risk
http://www.medpagetoday.com/MeetingCoverage/AAN/18338

"The degreasing agent trichloroethylene (TCE) has been linked to increased rates of Parkinson's disease among industrial workers in yet another study, this time involving a large, well-studied group of World War II veterans."

Sunday, February 7, 2010

In a California Town, Birth Defects, Deaths and Questions

In a California Town, Birth Defects, Deaths and Questions
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/02/07/us/07kettleman.html

"State and federal officials are scrambling to determine what caused the deaths of three children in this Central California farming town, which shares a ZIP code with the largest hazardous waste treatment site west of the Mississippi.

Over a 15-month period in 2007 and 2008, six children of mothers from Kettleman City were born with serious birth defects, including cleft palates, deformities and brain damage. Half of those infants subsequently died."

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Sunday, February 28, 2010