A new study has revealed that bandages from some reputable brands, including Band-Aid and CVS Health Forever, contain dangerous levels of the chemical ‘organic fluorine’ – a strong indicator that contains per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances and is classified as a PFAS. also known as.
These substances have been linked to a number of negative health effects, such as decreased immune system performance and response to vaccines, infant and child learning and developmental issues, certain cancers, decreased fertility, endocrine disruption, and other effects.
According to a report from Mamavation in partnership with EHN.org, about 26 bandages recently tested had detectable levels of organic fluorine ranging from 11 parts per million to 328 ppm.
Linda S., scientist emeritus and former director of the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. Birnbaum said it’s concerning to know that bandages applied to open wounds could potentially expose adults and children to PFAS.
While PFAS are not needed for wound care, Birnbaum said the industry should remove the presence of chemicals from bandages forever and choose PFAS-free materials. The 3M and True Color palettes were free of organic fluorine and other harmful compounds.
“Bandages containing organic fluorine may contain organic fluorine content due to the widespread use of fluoropolymers such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) – PFAS,” said Scott Belcher, associate professor at the Center for Environmental and Health Effects of PFAS at North Carolina State University. ,
PFAS-tested consumer products include contact lenses, pasta and tomato sauce, sports bras, tampons, dental floss, electrolytes, butter wrappers, fast food packaging, diapers, condoms and deodorant, the report said.
While many people know that PFAS pollution can be found in water, Mamavation’s testing continues to find additional sources of exposure, such as things we eat, wear, or put on our bodies.
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health has conducted laboratory research that suggests exposure to PFAS may pose health risks equivalent to ingesting the chemicals through food or water. However, the skin risks associated with exposure to PFAS are not yet clear.
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Published: 04 April 2024, 09:02 am IST
