M9.2 Six Chemical Classes

Manmade highly fluorinated chemicals are found in most Americans, approximately 98% of the American population. PFOA has been linked to kidney and testicular cancer, thyroid diseases and others. Highly fluorinated products never break down, and are found in carpets, food packaging, cosmetics and nonstick cookware. C8 PFOA was banned, but other forms of it are still in use. Even the "safer" substances are harmful to the human body. I was surprised to hear some brands are completely eliminating highly fluorinating chemicals, such as H&M and Crate & Barrel.

Antimicrobials kill microorganisms and are found in consumer products and building materials. They are found in personal care products, exercise mats, apparel, food storage containers and even countertops. Triclosan and triclocarban are the main antimicrobials that do not cause extra benefits beyond regular soap. They are toxic to algae and fish, also found in 3/4 of the U.S. population. The safety of replacement antimicrobials have also not been tested for human safety.

Flame retardants often don't slow fires as promised. They are added to consumer and building materials, but can even add to the rate of fire growth and contribute to chemical distribution into the environment. Toddlers have three to ten times the level of flame-retardant chemicals, and can be linked to mental disorders, decreased fertility and cancer. Chemicals bioaccumulate in the food chain and affect many of our wildlife.

Bisphenols and phthalates are hormone disrupters, and are often found in food packaging products. They can migrate out of plastics, affecting young children. Bisphenols are hardening agents and phthalates are used to make materials more flexible. Both are linked to neurodevelopmental problems and decreased fertility. It is recommended not to use plastic containers, canned and packaged foods. Products without fragrance can also help reduce exposure to phthalates.

Solvents are used to disperse other substances. Some are toxic, such as oil-based paints, adhesives, nail polish remover and cosmetics. They can be absorbed through the air we breathe or directly on the skin. Some solvents contribute to smog and can lead to neurodevelopmental issues, increased cancer risk and altered fetal development. Low level exposures can also be harmful.

Certain metals are linked to health harm, particularly mercury, arsenic, cadmium and lead. We are ingesting these metals and can harm brain development for fetuses and infants. Large fish like tuna and swordfish can lead to dangerously high levels. Fish lower in mercury include salmon, tilapia and anchovies. Arsenic can be found in rice cereal for infants, which is especially harmful for children. Cadmium can be found in plastic toys and jewelry, which can impair bran development and increase cancer risk. Lead was removed from paint in the 1970's, it can still be found in low wealth communities, causing harm to bran development, stillbirth and infertility.

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