NEWS FROM ONFCI
THE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
For Further Information Contact:
Toni Temple, President (440) 845-1888
STUDIES DISCLOSE NEEDLESS ADDITIVES
MAY CAUSE HEALTH PROBLEMS
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reviewed several scientific studies about triclosan, an ingredient added to many consumer products to reduce or prevent bacterial contamination. It may be found in clothing, shoes, furniture, toys, and also in products regulated by the FDA that include antibacterial soaps, toothpastes, and some cosmetics.
Animal studies have shown that triclosan alters hormone regulation and can contribute to making bacteria resistant to antibiotics. The FDA, EPA, and other agencies are engaged in ongoing scientific and regulatory review of this ingredient. Ironically, FDA has no evidence that triclosan in antibacterial soaps and body washes provides any benefit over washing with regular soap and water.
The Ohio Network for the Chemically Injured (ONFCI) is a not-for-profit corporation that educates about and advocates on behalf of those who have been harmed by toxic chemicals in our everyday environment. During Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) Awareness and Education Month in May, ONFCI encourages others to be aware of the ways in which people become ill so they can prevent MCS and other health disorders that are caused by preventable and unnecessary exposures to chemicals. Other disorders include but are not limited to: cancer, asthma, diabetes (from pesticides), and Parkinson's.
Michael D. Connell, Registered Pharmacist at Nature's Pharmacy and an ONFCI Board Member stated: "Ingredients in some commercially prepared pre-op laxatives include polyethylene glycol (antifreeze), dyes in artificial flavorings, and preservatives. Safer alternatives can be compounded without unnecessary additives." Ask your medical providers and hospitals to provide you with Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for all medications, surgical supplies, and treatment ingredients and then do your homework. Your pharmacy can provide you with full data on inert and active ingredients in medications. You have the right to ask for less toxic products and safer prescription drugs.
The U.S. EPA's Design for the Environment (DfE) program evaluates data for each chemical and assigns hazard levels for human health and environmental concerns. Bisphenol A (BPA) assessments and studies have shown that BPA is absorbed through the skin and mimics the effects of estrogen. BPA is used in: baby bottles; plastics designed for food and drink containers; the linings of canned foods and drinks; and is also used to coat thermal paper which is used for carbonless cash register, grocery, ATM, gas station, and other receipts. Ask your vendors to use BPA-free receipts.
Libraries participating in MCS Awareness and Education Month include: Cuyahoga County Public Library's 28 branches; the Downtown branch of Cleveland Public Library, Science and Technology Department; and the Brunswick Library. In May many libraries will have displays with related books, mayoral proclamations, and provide other related information.
Many mayors including Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson, Berea Mayor Cyril Kleem, Middleburg Heights Mayor Gary Starr, and Strongsville Mayor Thomas Perciak, will again issue Proclamations supporting MCS Awareness and Education Month.
An ONFCI MCS article was published in the 2011 Ohio Environmental Briefing Book and will be available soon on the Ohio Environmental Council's website at www.theoec.org .
For further information about MCS and the ONFCI visit our website at www.ohionetwork.org or contact ONFCI at (440) 845-1888.
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