Frequently Asked Questions
What are the possible sources of exposures to pesticides and what are the health effects?
Pesticides generally refer to insecticides but may also include herbicides, fungicides, rodenticides, insect repellents and wood preservatives. Pesticides are commonly used in many outdoor and indoor settings. Pesticides are often found in food, water, homes, gardens, schools, and parks. Repetitious exposure from these and other sources may have detrimental health effects, especially for small children whose bodies are more sensitive to chemical exposures.
Most exposure to pesticides is through inhalation or ingestion, but many pesticides are also easily absorbed through the skin. Scientists are raising questions about the potential toxic effect pesticides have on people, but more studies are needed. Pesticides work by damaging pests’ neurological systems, and studies show that pesticides can also cause nervous system damage in animals. Animal studies show links to other health concerns such as cancer and birth defects. Pregnant women should be particularly cautious about avoiding pesticides because of the association with birth defects, premature delivery, and miscarriage.
Gardening – in addition to ridding your yard of pests, regular lawn treatment kills insects that are beneficial in controlling pest population, and it exposes people unnecessarily to pesticides. There are natural alternatives to pest control. For more information, visit our Garden section under Community. The best solution depends on the type of pest you would like to address.
Here are some common household products containing pesticides:
• Insect sprays and baits
• Insect repellents for personal use.
• Rat and other rodent poisons.
• Flea and tick sprays, shampoos, powders, and pet collars.
• Kitchen, laundry, and bath disinfectants and sanitizers.
• Products that kill mold and mildew.
• Lawn and garden products such as weed killers.
• Some swimming pool chemicals.
It’s a good idea to keep the telephone number of the Poison Control Center near your telephone in case of an emergency: 1-800-222-1222. For more information on pesticides, visit epa.gov/pesticides.
What precautions should I take with pesticides if I have children in my home?
Here are some tips if you have children living in or visiting your home or yard:
• Avoid using pesticides in your home, but if you still decide to keep them in or around
your home, always store them away from children's reach such as in a locked cabinet
or shed.
• Avoid transferring pesticides to other containers that children may associate with food
or drink.
• Never place rodent or insect baits within children’s reach.
• Teach children that pesticides are poisonous should not be touched.
• Have a shoeless home. Many pesticides get picked up on your shoes and enter
your home and then are spread over the carpets and flooring.
• Keep the telephone number of the Poison Control Center near your telephone: 1-800-222-1222.
• If you currently have chemical pesticides and want to remove them from your home,
be sure to properly dispose of them in a hazardous waste facility.
Are there pesticides in my drinking water?
In U.S. cities, our water is pumped to water treatment plants before going into homes and offices. In more rural areas, the water often comes from private wells drilled into underground sources. Whether you reside in the city or country, it is quite possible that pesticides could be in your water supply.
How pesticides get into drinking water:
• Rain falling on pesticide-treated areas can carry the pesticide to surface and
underground water sources.
• Pesticides are sometimes applied directly to bodies of water to control weeds and pests.
• Pesticides sprayed in the air can go into the soil and into the water supplies.
• Pesticides are sometimes spilled or misused such as when homeowners illegally pour
pesticides down the drain.
• Pesticides are used in water treatment plants to kill viruses and bacteria.
While officials test for certain pesticides in public water supplies, the only way to truly know if a pesticide is present in your water is to have it tested. Check with your local water company first to find out what pesticides your area tests. The health effect of the pesticides depends on the type of pesticide since they all vary in toxicity levels. The EPA has established maximum contamination levels and health advisory levels.
For more information, visit epa.gov/pesticides
For information on alternatives to pesticides, visit our community garden section to read our eco-experts’ recommendations.
Do I need to buy organic produce?
According to numerous animal studies, exposure to pesticides causes many negative health impacts from cancer, to nervous and reproductive system damages. Small children and developing fetuses are particularly vulnerable to long lasting health concerns. Although further research of effects of pesticides still need to be performed to fully understand their potential toxicity, it is wise for people to avoid their exposures to pesticides as much as possible. While we don’t have total control over our environment, food is one area where people can minimize their exposures by eating organic food. If eating organic is not an option, then people should consider avoiding the top 12 most contaminated fruits and vegetables.
The 12 most contaminated fruits and vegetables (starting with the worst):
peaches, apples, sweet bell peppers, celery, nectarines, strawberries, cherries, lettuce, grapes (imported), pears, spinach, and potatoes
The 12 least contaminated fruits and vegetables:
onions, sweet corn, asparagus, sweet peas, cabbage, broccoli, and eggplant, avocados, pineapples, mangoes, kiwi, and bananas
(These lists are based on the results of the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s nearly 51,000 tests between 2000 and 2004 for pesticide residues on a variety of produce collected.)
According, to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), “people can lower their pesticide exposure by almost 90 percent by avoiding the top twelve most contaminated fruits and vegetables and eating the least contaminated instead. Eating the 12 most contaminated fruits and vegetables will expose a person to about 14 pesticides per day, on average. Eating the 12 least contaminated will expose a person to less than 2 pesticides per day.”
Washing and standard preparation of produce, such as peeling a banana, was taken into account when these studies were conducted. Washing produce may help reduce levels of pesticides but will not eliminate them.
Choosing organic when possible and avoiding the 12 most contaminated fruits and vegetables is a great place to start reducing your exposure to pesticides.
Why should I choose organic?
- Organic farming methods build healthier soils. Compared to soils on conventional farms, organically farmed soils have been shown to have higher nutrients and less runoff and erosion. The nutrient-rich soil, in turn, allows for higher amounts of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants in the food.
- Organic farming practices enhance seed, crop and ecological biodiversity. Conventional farming relies on mono-cropping (planting the same crop year after year on a plot of land) and chemicals to eradicate other plant and insect species. These practices reduce non-target animals, plants and insects, which not only reduce biodiversity but may also promote pest resistance.
- Organic growers have pest and disease management strategies that do not use artificial and oxic chemicals such as pesticides, antibiotics and hormones.
- Organic certification standards do not allow GMO, genetically modified organisms, and organic food is not irradiated.
- Organic food has lower nitrates levels than conventionally farmed foods. High nitrate levels in food and drinking water can be converted to carcinogenic nitrosamines.
- Organic farming helps protect water quality. Pesticides and other chemicals commonly used in conventional farming contaminate ground water and other sources of drinking water.
- Organic food production uses less non-renewable energy sources than conventional food production. Conventional farming uses more petroleum than any other industry. Organic farming is based on more traditional labor-intensive practices such as hand weeding, and organic produce tends to travel shorter distances to end up on your plate.\
- Purchasing organic food supports traditional farming systems - small, independently owned family farms.
- Organic food production helps protects future generations. The average child receive approximately four times more pesticide exposure in foods than an adult. Choosing organic protect your children’s health and the earth for many future generations to come.
- Organic food tastes better. Organic farming starts with the nourishment of the soil, which leads to the nourishment of the plant and creates more flavorful food. Find out for yourself why many chefs choose organic foods.
Allergies are very common, affecting at least 2 out of every 10 American. If you are not sure if you have allergies, contact a doctor to learn more about allergy testing. If you know you have allergies, there are some things you can do in your day to day life that will help reduce your reactions to environmental allergens.
Tips for reducing (airborne) allergies:
• Use particulate air filters in your air ducts and air purification units in the bedroom and living
area. Change air filters frequently and clean air ducts at least once a year.
• Avoid using fans since they can stir up dust.
• If you have allergies to pets, consider keeping them outdoors or do not allow them in the
bedroom and be sure to bathe them often with non-toxic pet soaps.
• Keep the humidity in your house below 50% to prevent mold growth.
• Limit your time in areas where molds may collect, including basements, garages, and crawl
spaces. If possible, have someone else clean these areas for you often.
• Install dehumidifiers in the basement and other areas of the house where molds tend to
collect, and clean the dehumidifier weekly.
• Be sure clothes and shoes are dry before storing to prevent mold growth.
• Wash your bedding every 1 – 2 weeks in hot water.
• Choose bedding, rugs, curtains and shower curtains that are washable.
• Avoid over-watering indoor plants as moist soil encourages mold growth.
• Use covers for pillows, mattresses and comforters. Avoid stuffed animals, overstuffed furniture
and down-filled bedding or pillows.
• Don't allow smoking in your house.
• Choose un-scented, non-toxic deodorants, perfumes, shampoos or hair products.
• When cleaning, wear a mask and gloves to limit dust and chemical exposure.
• Use non-toxic cleaning products and avoid chemical pesticides and air fresheners.
• Vacuum with a hepa vacuum at least once per week.
• Choose hardwood floors over carpeting, if possible. If changing flooring is not possible,
have your carpets steam cleaned (without chemicals) every 3-6 months.
• Use an exhaust fan over the stove to remove gas and cooking fumes.
• Limit your time outdoors on hot, dry, windy days when pollen counts are high.
• Avoid exercising outdoors when the air pollution is high. Find out more about your local
air quality at www.epa.gov/airnow.
• Do not let gas powered cars or lawn mowers idle in an attached garage on near your home.
• Take a shower (shower filter) and change your clothes after being outdoors to remove pollen
that may have collected in your clothes and hair.
• Install exhaust fans in bathrooms to remove moisture and reduce the chance of mold growth.
Should I avoid plastic water bottles?
Americans drink from more than 30 billion single-serving bottles of water a year. Most disposable water bottles are made from plastic derived from crude oil, polyethylene terephthalate (PET). These plastic bottles are then transported on fuel-burning truck or shipped in from far-away countries such as Fiji. After drinking the water, few people (about 15%) actually recycle the containers. This process uses up resources and contributes to air pollution.
In addition to its high carbon footprint, plastic water bottles may have health implications. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates the quality of public water supplies, but it does not regulate bottled water. Some bottled water companies do a poor job of providing clean water. In fact, even if it says “spring water” on the bottle, it may simply be tap water.
Reusing plastic water bottles helps reduce waste, but the bacterial content increases when they are re-used. Washing these PET/PETE (#1) bottles may cause them to start breaking down and cause leaching of chemicals into the water such as DEHA, a known carcinogen, and benzyl butyl phthalate (BBP), a potential hormone disrupter. Some PET bottled-water containers appear to leach antimony, an elemental metal that is an eye, skin, and lung irritant at high doses.
Reusing the harder plastic water bottles made from polycarbonate plastic (#7) does not appear to be a safer alternative since they leach bisphenol-A (BPA), a chemical linked to hormone-disrupting effects. Normal wear and tear, cleaning, scratches, and heating accelerate the leaching. Plastic baby bottles, other hard plastic containers, food and beverage can linings, and dental sealants also often contain BPA.
The safest alternatives (for our bodies and the planet) are reusable glass and stainless steel water bottles. These containers do not seem to leach any chemicals into the water and handle frequent washing. It’s important to wash these reusable containers to avoid accumulation of bacteria.
Which fish are safe to eat?
Fish has all the components of a healthy food - great source of protein, fats and essential nutrients, but, unfortunately, it is difficult to find toxin-free sources of fish. Mercury in the water accumulates in fish and increases in concentrations in larger fish that are higher on the food chain such as shark and tuna. A large percentage of mercury pollution comes from coal-burning power plants.
Mercury is toxic to the developing brain and nervous system. Elevated exposures during fetal development can negatively affect intelligence, speech, and motor development. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 8 percent of U.S. women of childbearing age have levels of mercury in their blood that may cause developmental problems for their babies.
The FDA’s Recommendations:
“If you are pregnant, nursing your child, or thinking about becoming pregnant, it is important that you avoid consuming too much methylmercury. This substance can be found in certain fish, and it can harm an unborn child's developing nervous system if eaten regularly. Follow these same recommendations when feeding fish and shellfish to your young child, but serve smaller portions.
1. Do not eat Shark, Swordfish, King Mackerel, or Tilefish because they contain high levels of
mercury.
2. Eat up to 12 ounces (two average meals) a week of a variety of fish and shellfish that are
lower in mercury. Five of the most commonly eaten fish that are low in mercury are shrimp,
canned light tuna, salmon,pollock, and catfish. Another commonly eaten fish, albacore
(‘white’) tuna has more mercury than canned light tuna. So, when choosing your two meals
of fish and shellfish, you may eat up to six ounces (one average meal) of albacore tuna per
week.
3. Check local advisories about the safety of fish caught by family and friends in your local
lakes, rivers and coastal areas. If no advice is available, eat up to six ounces (one average
meal) per week of fish you catch from local waters, but don't consume any other fish during
that week.”
Despite these recommendations by the FDA, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) recommends women of childbearing age and children should avoid eating albacore tuna because of the high levels of mercury. The EWG is concerned that the FDA and EPA’s recommendations do not adequately protecting pregnant women and their children. To determine how much tuna you can safely eat EWG has an online calculator - www.ewg.org/tunacalculator.
Even if you are not pregnant or have young children, it is wise to monitor the amount of fish you consume that are commonly associated with higher levels of mercury. You can still get the benefits of eating fish without worrying about the toxic effects of mercury by consuming a high quality fish oil supplement.
What toys are safe for my child?
Just about every toy you give your baby ends up in her mouth. Many plastic and vinyl toys contain phthalates, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and Bisphenol-A (BPA). These chemicals can be broken down and ingested through teething. PVC and other types of plastic manufacturing produce dioxins and can have hormone-disrupting effects in the body. However, you don’t have to completely avoid plastics toys. There are PVC and phthalate free plastics such as Lego toys.
Solid wood toys are a healthier alternative to plastic and are preferable to pressed woods, such as plywood and particleboard. You also want to be sure the wood toys are made with non-toxic paints and finishes such as linseed and walnut oils and beeswax.
Organic and sustainably-harvested materials are a more eco-conscious choice over fossil fuel-based plastics. When selecting imported toys, ensure that they are lead-free. It is often safer to select toys made in Europe and the US.
Fabric toys such as stuffed animals, puppets and dolls encourage imaginative play, and babies like to explore the textures and shapes with their mouths. But try to avoid toys with stain- and insect-proofed chemicals that have been linked to cancer. Since cotton is a heavily sprayed crop, certified organic and/or untreated cotton and wool, colored with non-toxic color-fast dyes, are a greener alternative.
Books are another popular option for children. For a greener option, select books that teach your child about sustainability, nature and health.
Whether you have a teething baby or an older child, there are many colorful, well-made toys made from natural materials that are a safer choice for your child and the environment. For more ideas, visit our community family section to read our expert bloggers’ tips.
What contributes to indoor air pollution?
Offgassing (release of toxic chemicals into the air) occurs from just about everything in our home and office: building materials, paint, insulation, furniture, mattresses, window treatment, appliances, cabinetry, carpet, clothes, shower curtains, cleaning products, air fresheners and more. Any chemical you smell can make its way into your bloodstream by diffusing through your lungs and skin into your blood and then through into your organs.
Many people develop symptoms or illnesses when they move into a new or newly renovated home such as headaches, depression, dizziness, confusion, fatigue, difficulty breathing and nausea. These can be due to the high amount of formaldehyde from insulation, pressed board furniture, siding material, sofas and mattresses or phenols in plywood.
Health effects from indoor air pollutants may be experienced immediately after exposure to years later. Immediate effects may show up after a single exposure or repeated exposures. These long-term effects can include certain respiratory diseases, heart disease, and cancer. Even if you do not notice symptoms, it is always a good idea to improve the indoor air quality in your home by opening doors and windows when possible. You may also want to consider placing an air purification unit in your bedroom and living room. In addition, you can reduce carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide gases in your home by using properly vented gas appliances, water heaters, space heaters, stoves or chimneys.
Despite the many exposures that are out of our control, indoor air pollution is one risk that you can improve. The air within our homes can be drastically more polluted than the outdoor air in even the largest and most industrialized cities. And since we generally spend approximately 90 percent of their time indoors, the risks to our health may be greater from exposure to air pollution indoors than outdoors.
What are possible sources of exposure to lead?
Lead is known to be highly toxic. It has been labeled as carcinogenic and is known to cause damage to the reproductive and neurological systems as well as problems with learning, developmental, hearing and hyperactivity. Our body is not able to remove lead easily, and it binds to calcium and is stored in our bones.
Although US government regulations have reduced allowable lead levels in materials such as paint and gasoline, the most significant source of lead continues to be paint in homes built before 1978, lead pipes installed before 1930s and soil near highways. In homes built before 1978, the concern is that children may eat pieces of chipping paint or that during remodeling or friction from opening windows and doors, lead dust may be swallowed or inhaled. Homes built before 1930 may still have lead plumbing, and lead solder continued to be used into the 1980s. This lead soldering or plumbing can release lead into the tap water.
Lead can be found in old paint, dust, soil, fertilizers, drinking water, imported mini-blinds, imported canned foods, ink, leaded crystal, cosmetics, ceramics, pewter, imported toys and crayons, candle wicks, antique or painted furniture, construction sites, firing ranges, home renovation projects, water faucets and plumbing.
If you suspect lead may be a problem in your home or in a product you use, you may use lead test kits available at hardware stores and home improvement centers. A qualified professional can determine if your home contains lead paint using more comprehensive testing. For more information about lead and how to find a professional to test or remove lead in your home, visit www.epa.gov/lead/.
If you think you or your child has been exposed to lead, contact your doctor about doing a blood lead test to determine if you have dangerous lead levels in your body.
According to the National Sanitation Foundation International, lead can be removed from drinking water by using carbon/charcoal, reverse osmosis and distillation water filter systems.
What is asbestos and how can I be exposed to it?
Asbestos is a fibrous mineral found in various construction materials in homes built throughout the nineteen hundreds into the early 1980’s. During that time, acoustical ceilings, vinyl flooring, adhesives, joint compounds, heating and air conditioning ducts, pipe insulation, boiler & furnace insulation, siding and roofing materials, and stucco where made with asbestos. When construction materials such as these are damaged or disturbed, microscopic bundles of fibers from the asbestos can become airborne and then inhaled into the lungs. Asbestos has been found to cause serious lung diseases and cancer years after exposure. For more information, visit www.epa.gov/asbestos.
What is radon and how would I be exposed to it?
Radon is a radioactive gas from the decay of uranium found in granite rock in the ground. Radon is colorless and odorless and can seep into homes from the soil and rock underneath houses. Several studies have shown definitive evidence of an association between residential radon exposure and lung cancer. Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers and is the second leading cause of lung cancer in America. The EPA encourages people to test and fix their homes for radon. A simple test can determine if radon is a problem in your home. For more information, visit www.epa.gov/radon.
What are EMFs and are they harmful?
Electric and magnetic fields (EMFs) are invisible lines of energy from electric charges surrounding power lines, electrical appliances and other electrical equipment. People receive the majority of EMF exposure from power lines near homes, electrical appliances held closely to the body, and cell phones and towers. Radio-frequency and microwave-frequency EMFs, such as from cellular phones and towers, involve a much higher frequency than power lines and most electrical appliances. There are no federal standards limiting work or home exposure to EMFs. There is disagreement among scientists as to whether or not typical EMF exposures can have serious health consequences. Despite the disagreement, when you hear how EMFs affect our bodies on a molecular level, you have to wonder how they could not have an effect on our health. Above 60 Hertz, electrical frequencies can potentially break chemical bonds and cause irreversible changes to molecules such as DNA or body tissue. Microwave currents cause vibrations within water molecules and resulting friction and heat (this is how they heat food). The concern is what effect exposure to these microwave-frequencies have on the human body. At high levels, microwave and radio frequency EMFs can heat body tissues, and when a person is very close to the source, they can interfere with cardiac pacemakers and the normal heart conduction systemThe question is how much is acceptable. Because you cannot see EMFs and there are no current federal regulations, most people are unaware of the possibilities. Some studies suggest an association between occupational exposures to EMFs and breast cancer, leukemia and brain tumors. In children, EMFs and cancer and brain tumors is mostly from power lines close to the child’s home, but there have also been links to risks associated with exposures to household appliances such as electric blankets, hair dryers and televisions. EMFs are reduced greatly by increasing distance from the source such as a few feet from most electrical devices and approximately 100 feet from a distribution power line and 500 feet from a transmission line.
What are the best candles to use?
Most people do not think to consider the health implications or environmental impact of candles. However, most candles are made from paraffin, a petroleum by-product (a non-renewable resource). Paraffin candles contain or release a number of chemicals that may be carcinogenic when burned such as benzene and toluene. Also, imported candles such as from Asia or South America may have wicks containing lead.
Beeswax candles are a healthier, more natural alternative and have a sweet smell when burned. Beeswax is a by-product of honey and is made from honeycomb. These candles are more expensive, but they last up to three times longer than paraffin. Natural beeswax candles are usually golden to amber in color. If you choose to purchase beeswax candles, be sure it is 100% beeswax. If it doesn’t say 100% beeswax on the label, then it is likely a blend of beeswax and paraffin.
Soy candles are another alternative to paraffin candles and may be a better option for vegans who avoid using any animal products (including wax from bees). These candles burn slower and last longer than paraffin candles. They burn cooler and have very little soot, and any drips are easily cleaned up. Soy candles are generally less expensive than beeswax but more expensive than paraffin candles. Preferably, the soy should come from an organic source in order to avoid supporting the genetically modified soy industry. Soy candles sometimes contain chemicals that are animal-derived or are toxic, so if you select soy candles be sure that the ingredients are pure.
Why is frequent barbecuing not good for my health?
Studies have shown that cooking certain meats at high temperatures creates harmful chemicals that are not present in uncooked meats. When we grill, fry or barbecue meat (beef, pork, poultry and fish), chemicals called heterocyclic amines (HCAs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are formed. These chemicals contain some of the same compounds found in cigarette smoke and appear to be carcinogenic.
If you’re not ready to go meat-free, start by avoiding overcooked meat and limit your intake of fried and barbecued meat. Don’t forget to eat plenty of whole grains and fresh fruits and vegetables to ensure you have adequate intake of fiber and beneficial nutrients.
How do I prevent mold in my home?
There are many different types of mold, but all of them need moisture or water to grow. Molds have the potential to cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, and some molds are potentially toxic substances (mycotoxins). Allergic responses include sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, and skin rash.
Some mold spores can be found the air and in house dust, but mold can be controlled by managing moisture levels in your home. If you discover mold growth in your home, be sure to not only clean up the mold but fix the water problem as well so the mold will not re-grow. If you have mold in your home, you may want to hire a professional to do the cleanup, but be sure he or she has experience cleaning up mold.
Tips for reducing mold in your home:
- Fix plumbing leaks and other water problems as soon as possible, and dry all items completely.
- Clean mold off of hard surfaces with detergent and water, and dry completely.
- When water leaks or spills occur or condensation accumulates, dry the area within 24-48 hours to avoid mold growth.
- Keep roof gutters clean, and make sure the ground slopes away from your home's foundation, so that water does not collect around the foundation.
- Maintain low indoor humidity (below 60% relative humidity). A humidity meter can help you monitor the relative humidity in your home.
- To help reduce humidity, vent appliances that produce moisture, such as clothes dryers and stoves, to the outside.
- Use dehumidifiers when needed.
- Run the bathroom exhaust fan when showering.
- Increase ventilation or air flow by using fans and opening doors and windows when possible.
For more information, visit www.epa.gov/mold.
Is stain and water resistant furniture, clothing and carpeting safe?
The perfluorinated chemicals used to make products that resist stains on carpets and fabrics, repel water and grease on clothes and food containers, and prevent food from sticking to cookware have been found to be toxic and indestructible in the environment. These chemicals have numerous health effects and are accumulating in people’s bodies around the world, including over 95 percent of Americans.
Some of the companies that make these products have agreed with the EPA to eliminate perfluorinated chemicals by 2015. This comes after the EPA announced it would fine one maker millions of dollars for covering up studies showing it was polluting drinking water and exposing people to chemicals that cause cancer, birth defects and other serious health concerns in animals. At the moment, these chemicals are still being made, and it is important to ask questions about what chemicals (if any) are used on your upholstered furniture, carpets, clothing, food containers and cookware.
Where would I find fire retardants in my home and what are the health effects?
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) are a widely used class of toxic chemicals used in many products in the home to prevent the spread of fire. PBDE’s are commonly found in upholstered furniture, mattresses, carpet padding, foam pillows, televisions, cell phones and computer monitors.
People and their pets may be exposed to PBDE’s in dust particles in their homes and some food. Known to accumulate in human blood, fat and milk, PBDEs appear to have the ability to disrupt thyroid and metabolic function. Animal studies have shown exposure to PBDEs before and after birth impairs brain development, learning ability, memory and behavior
A report in the August 15, 2007 issue of Environmental Science and Technology showed that cats have high levels of PBDEs, and the exposure may be linked to feline hyperthyroidism. Cat food and house dust were found to be the likely sources of cats’ PBDEs. This research calls into question the potential adverse health effects related to low-level chronic PBDE exposure in humans, especially children who may be particularly susceptible to exposure and health effects.
For more information on PBDEs, go to www.ewg.org/pbdefree
Should I be concerned about treated wood used in my wooden desk, play structure, flower box, fence or picnic table?
Many play structures, decks, fences and other outdoor wooden structure are made of wood preserved with chromated copper arsenate (CCA), the basis of which is arsenic, a carcinogenic chemical that can leach out of treated wood onto children's hands and into soil and groundwater. Since the 1940s, CCA has been the most widely used wood preservative since it protects wood from rot, mold and pests. CCA has been banned in residential uses since 2004, but many CCA-treated wooden structures still exist in backyards, parks, and playgrounds.
If your wooden outdoor structure has a greenish tinge, there's a good chance it was treated with CCA. To determine whether your deck, play set or picnic table or the surrounding soil has arsenic, you can obtain a test kit at http://www.ewg.org/reports/poisonwoodrivals/orderform.
There are newer wood treatment alternatives, and though they are viewed as less toxic to children than arsenic compounds, their effect on the environment and our health is still unclear. The healthiest and most eco-conscious choice is naturally insect and rot resistant woods such as cedar. Another eco-friendly option for play sets are those made from recycled plastics.
