The Environmental Working Group (EWG), a non-profit organization, has issued a September 2008 study concluding that “a class of chemicals used in fire retardants, is appearing in toddlers’ blood at three times higher than in their mothers.”
The chemicals, otherwise known as Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs), are commonly used has flame retardants in common household items such as “furniture foam and T.V. cabinets.” See Complete Article Here
In fact, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) similarly conducted an assessment of PBDEs and noted that “levels in the environment have dramatically increased over the past two decades, as have levels in human blood and milk samples.” The EPA has further stated that “although use of flame retardants save lives and property, there have been unintended consequences.” The European Union and other states such as California, have already banned and prohibits the use of PBDEs.
Although the long-term exposure of children to PBDEs is still under investigation, the EPA has found evidence that “PBDEs could cause toxicity in the liver, thyroid, and brain.” Children are considered to be at a higher risk in that “children ingest more PBDEs than adults because the chemicals stick to hands or toys, which toddlers tend to put their mouths.”
If you are a loved one has suffered adverse health effects from PBDEs, please contact our law firm for a free consultation.