A new book just released by professor McKay Jenkins, titled “ContamiNation: My Quest to Survive in a Toxic World,” explores the potentially severe health risks associated with household products that we use every day; from paints, cleaners, fertilizer, bleach, etc. It also suggests that we make lifestyle changes in order to limit exposure to these chemicals. In it, Jenkins interviews scientists, regulators, lawmakers and others, all of whom are concerned about the lack of information available to the public concerning the risks associated with the chemicals in our products.
What is perhaps most alarming is that, as our consumption of toxic chemicals has increased by 8,200 percent just in the last 25 years, so has the prevalence of cancer. Although there is still much research to be done, what is especially frightening about this exposure is that it has cumulative effects and its repercussions are often slow to develop.
On Grocery Shelves
One trip to the grocery store reveals that these chemicals are lurking in most-all products sold to us, especially when it comes to cosmetics. And, in many instances, they are entirely unnecessary. Take Teflon, for example; concealed for over 50 years, the pans were made with chemicals that poisoned the consumers that bought them and communities nearby who depended upon drinking water supplies when, in fact, consumers could have simply used olive oil to coat pans instead.
Some of the common harmful chemicals used in these products include but are not limited to:
- Formaldehyde;
- Toluene;
- Paradioxine;
- Phthalates; and
- Many others.
Although many health experts still maintain that particular lifestyle choices—such as smoking, consumption of alcohol, not getting exercise, being obese, having a poor diet, getting too much sun exposure, etc.—as well as genetic risks and exposure to Hepatitis B and C, for example—also play a critical role in developing cancer.
The FDA’s Role
Sadly, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not have the authority to require cosmetic manufacturers to submit safety data, even though the agency technically regulates cosmetics. In fact, the burden is on the FDA to prove that an ingredient or overall product is harmful when used as intended or instructed.
In addition, just because a product is on the market doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s safe. And not only are labels often meaningless, but products are being put out faster than they can be certified; with one chemical often replacing another. In general, federal oversight remains relaxed, and the Toxic Substances Control Act is, arguably, out of date.
In the face of the unknowns and the inability to demand data, the public—and our agencies—largely remain uninformed and chemicals go largely unregulated. The concern is heightened for children, as they are still growing, and thus their cells more susceptible to damage. In addition, they consume more in general than adults do.
Environmental Hazard Attorneys
Many companies that produce the products we rely on are using chemicals we know very little about. Sometimes, these products can lead to us becoming sick. If you believe you have been the victim of environmental or chemical contamination, the attorneys of Harrell & Nowak can help. Contact us today for a free consultation–we serve communities in New Orleans, Metairie, Kenner, and throughout Louisiana.