Dangers of “eternal chemicals”

Newspaper The Guardian On May 7th, SSI’s research was published in the journal Environmental Science and Technology. The organization found PFAS – a group of more than 9,000 compounds – in clothing, pillowcases, bedding and furniture, some labeled “eco-friendly”.

PFAS has been linked to cancer, birth defects, liver disease, thyroid disease, lowered immunity, hormone disorders and a host of other serious health problems.

One of the authors of the SSI study, Ms. Laurel Schaider Photo: RHODE ISLAND UNIVERSITY

Nearly 60% of children’s textiles labeled “waterproof”, “stain resistant” or “environmentally friendly” in the SSI study contained toxic PFAS compounds.

PFAS is also known as “permanent chemicals” because it does not break down naturally and accumulates in the human body. One of the study’s authors, Laurel Schaider, warned: “This is worrisome because these toxic chemicals can enter children’s bodies.”

According to SSI’s findings, PFAS was present in 54 of the 93 products surveyed, including 21 “organic”, “green” or “non-toxic” products. Nearly 20 products contain a variety of PFASs, including PFOA, a highly toxic compound that has been rejected by regulators and industry.

PFAS in clothing can enter the human body through a number of ways. They are volatile so they can separate from the product, then become suspended in the air and be inhaled into the lungs. They also cling to dust or absorb through the skin, and are present in many places such as in water, soil, air, food, materials in the home or workplace.

Ms. Schaider notes that it is difficult for consumers to avoid “eternal chemicals” because they are not specifically listed. However, they are identifiable because most “stain resistant” products often contain PFAS.