Common chemicals found in every home may be causing cancer, asthma, birth defects and reduced fertility, the World Health Organisation has warned. In its ‘State of the Science of Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals’ report, the WHO has specifically evaluated several chemicals and related evidence across the board. In particular the two year study focussed on chemicals such as phthalates, Bisphenol A and PCBs listing research showing links to reduced female fertility, increased male hormonal complications and increased childhood illnesses such as leukaemia.
The study reflected similar warnings from the European Environment Agency (EEA) last year, which warned items such as cosmetics and medicines containing Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) could be harmful to humans.
The WHO suggested these ‘gender-bending’ compounds found in the white linings of cans, personal care products, perfumes and even children’s toys should be banned, as new research shows clearly that future generations could be at risk from contamination in adults today.
The WHO reported links between exposure to EDCs and health issues such as testicular problems, breast, prostate and thyroid cancer, developmental effects on the nervous system in children and attention deficit hyperactivity in children. In prostate cancer, ‘significant evidence’ existed that suggested a link with agricultural pesticides.
The WHO added that there was ‘very strong evidence’ in animals that EDCs can interfere with thyroid hormones, which could cause brain damage, decrease intelligence, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and autism.
This research comes just a few months after Canadian research linked certain chemicals to breast cancer - the report was in Cancer Watch (CLICK HERE).
Further Reading?
As Safe as Houses CLICK HERE
Toxic Toiletries - 12 to watch out for. CLICK HERE