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PBDEs

Over the past several years, studies have shown that chemicals used as flame retardants (known as polybrominated diphenyl ethers, or PBDEs) were getting into our bodies and, more disturbingly, being transferred to nursing infants through their mothers’ breast milk.

Now research is beginning to show just how these chemicals get into our bodies. Some of them enter our bodies through food, especially fish, which is high in PBDEs that accumulate up the food chain. But the major pathway appears to be through household dust.

Research shows that PBDE levels in our bodies have risen dramatically over the past few decades, as they have also accumulated in our homes. The flame retardants are used in a wide variety of household products, such as fabrics, furniture and electronics. Studies show that exposure to PBDEs can damage the thyroid and its ability to help the brain develop properly. It may also interfere with endocrine function.

PBDEs first appeared commercially in the early 1970s and have been doubling every five years in human breast milk. The main U.S. manufacturer of these chemicals has discontinued production of two types of PBDEs, which are now banned in the European Union.

Exposure to the chemicals can be partially reduced by frequent housecleaning and improved ventilation, or any method that reduces exposures to household dust. However, larger steps must be taken to sufficiently protect consumers from exposures since these chemicals are so widely used.

For more information about this story, visit Organic Consumers, Science Daily and Mindfully.

To read more about this and other environmental health issues, go to: www.environmentalhealthnews.org, www.ourstolenfuture.org, or www.healthandenvironment.org