P
P&G (Procter and Gamble)
PACE (Protect all Children's Environment)
Information regarding pesticides. -- barb
http://www.main.nc.us/pace
Pacesetters
EI/MCS Louisville
Pacific Sun
Mill Valley's Who's Who w/Steve McNamara, editor and publisher, Pacific Sun
http://bayarea.citysearch.com/E/F/SFOCA/0000/09/67/1.2.html
Pain
- The National Foundation for the Treatment of Pain
http://www.paincare.org/frames/default2.asp?Top=../top2.htm&Main=../main_menu/main.htm
Medical Breakthrough for treatment of Persistent Pain
PRWeb - The Free Wire Service
http://www.prweb.com/releases/2002/9/prweb45221.php
Paint
Also see:
page B, Building
http://users.lmi.net/~wilworks/ehnlinx/b.htm#Building
page C, Carpets
http://users.lmi.net/~wilworks/ehnlinx/c.htm#Carpets
page C, Clean
http://users.lmi.net/~wilworks/ehnlinx/c.htm#Clean
page G, Green
http://users.lmi.net/wilworks/ehnlinx/g.htm#Green
page P, Pesticide Info and Least Toxic Methods
http://users.lmi.net/~wilworks/ehnlinx/pestcide.htm
page S, Sustainability
http://users.lmi.net/~wilworks/ehnlinx/s.htm#Sustainability
Also, learn about Sick Building Syndrome
http://users.lmi.net/~wilworks/ehnlinx/s.htm#Sick
- Air Force
"A-E may demonstrate experience with projects that have specifically addressed ensuring
good indoor air quality, including such measures as specifying low VOC adhesives,
low VOC paints, low-toxic building materials, or above-code required air
exchanges. Projects which are designed with Integrated Pest Management techniques in
mind reduce the use of toxic pesticides, and also contribute to indoor air quality."
http://www.denix.osd.mil/denix/Public/Library/Eprfguide/eprf5.html
- AFM Safe Coat
http://buildingforhealth.com/paints.html
- EarthTech Environmentally Friendly, Non-Toxic Paints and Finishes
http://www.earthtechinc.com/
- Low- or No-VOC Paints
ToolBase Services -The Home Building Industry's Technical Information Resource
c/o NAHB Research Center
400 Prince George's Blvd
Upper Marlboro, MD 20774
301-249-4000 (tel)
301-430-6180 (fax)
800-898-2842 (Hotline)
email: toolbase@nahbrc.org
http://www.toolbase.org/tertiaryT.asp?TrackID=&CategoryID=1402&DocumentID=2174
ICI Dulux Paints
http://www.icipaintsstores.com/
- Miller Paint Company - Since 1890
Environmentally Friendly Paint
http://www.millerpaint.com/Products/ProductsSpecialtyLowBioOrder.html
- Natural Home
Rugs, bedding, carpet, cork, hardwood, paints, finishes
http://www.naturalhomeproducts.com/
- The Old Fashioned Milk Paint Co., Inc.
436 Main Street, Groton, Massachusetts 01450
"Our Old-Fashioned MILK PAINT is a re-creation of the original MILK PAINT formula
used for centuries before the sale of commercially made paints. It is an authentic finish
for use in the restoration of antiques or in the reproduction of antique furniture. It comes
in rich colors that are durable and do not fade. Also, since MILK PAINT is made from
elements that pre-date the use of petrochemicals and other toxic bases and solvents,
is biodegradeable, non-toxic, and odor-free when dry. MILK PAINT is preferred by
custom furniture builders, interior designers artists, craftsmen, do-it-yourselfers, and
those who are sensitive to the need for protecting the environment. ..."
http://www.milkpaint.com/
-- end paint --
Dr. Martin Pall
Washington State University
Panic Disorder
Frankly, I'd like to see some research on the effects of our modern products with their
superfluous toxins and their effects on the central nervous system, which becomes diagnosed
as Panic Disorder or PD. If you know of such information, please inform me. At this time, I
believe we have a likely case of medical misdiagnoses. Of course, prescribing drugs rather
than telling the patient to avoid synthetic scents and pesticides, and products with high-emitting
VOCs (volatile organic compounds) seems to be the western mainstream medical way. -- barb
Palantir Information Systems of Canada Limited
PANNA -- Pesticide Action Network North America Regional Center
Para Oxonase
http://www.mall-net.com/mcs/paraoxonase.html
Parabens
- Latest Research On The Truth About Parabens
Living Nature
"... There are lots of arguments about commercial production of parabens, and not much
information around. They are produced from a petroleum derivative, toluene. ..."
http://www.livingnature.com/talkwithus/latestnews.cfm
PARADICHLOROBENZENE (Mothballs)
Paraquad, Inc. - Independence for people with disabilities
St. Louis, MO
This site is quite a find for those living with MCS! -- barb
http://www.paraquad.org/map.html
- Fragrance-Free Environments and No -Fragrance Spaces--
Not just a personal preference, but a Vital Matter of Health
(The author, Roberta K. Rigsby, Ph.D., has kindly given permission for you to reproduce this
without seeking reprint permission, but do check it closely for some typos. -- barb 02/02/02)
http://www.paraquad.org/nosmell.htm
- Frequently Asked Questions About Multiple Chemical Sensitivity
(Watch for a few typos ...) -- barb
http://www.paraquad.org/faqmcs.htm
- Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS)
Pardon me, but is that your perfume I'm smelling?
" ... No one would argue the fact that carbon monoxide, an odorless and colorless gas,
is highly poisonous. But change the subject to MCS, and many of those same people will
still affirm that 'if I can't see it, it doesn't exist.' ..."
http://www.paraquad.org/mcs.htm
Parents
Parkinson's Disease
- The Edelson Center for Environmental and Preventive Medicine
http://www.ephca.com/park_dis.htm
- Environmental Exposures in Elderly Canadians with Parkinson's Disease
http://www.canjneurolsci.org/22augtoc/environm.htm
- Exposure to Home Pesticides Linked to Parkinson Disease
By Joan Stephenson, PhD
http://jama.ama-assn.org/issues/v283n23/ffull/jmn0621-1.html
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)
Parkinson's: "Many researchers believe that a combination of these four mechanisms --
oxidative damage, environmental toxins, genetic predisposition, and accelerated
aging-- may ultimately be shown to cause the disease"
http://www.ninds.nih.gov/patients/Disorder/parkinso/pdhtr.htm
- Parkinson's Disease and Chemical Exposures
http://www.essential.org/orgs/cchw/ehm/sept96.html
- Parkinson's Disease/Welding Rods
Pesticides are also connected with Parkinson's . . . what about flavors and fragrances? -- barb
http://www.simmonscooper.com/CM/FirmOverview/FirmOverview48.asp
- Parkinson's Disease Information Center
http://gladstone.uoregon.edu/~jskaye/pd/medicalsources.html
- Parkinson's Disease: Is Victory in Sight?
- With complete references for researchers by Hans R. Larsen, MSc ChE
http://vvv.com/healthnews/parkinsons.html
- Parkinson's Disease and the Link to Pesticide Use at Home
By Connie Eash
http://users.lmi.net/~wilworks/ehnlinx/parkeash.htm
- Parkinson's drug of choice may not be best
NEW YORK, May 17 (Reuters Health)
http://www.reutershealth.com/archive/2000/05/17/eline/links/20000517elin008.html
- Parkinson's Institute
http://www.parkinsonsinstitute.org/
- Biographical Sketches
http://www.parkinsonsinstitute.org/research/fink_bio.html
- Director of National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS)
Announces $20 Million Initiative on Parkinson's Disease
"... The Parkinson's Institute will examine risks associated with pesticides and heavy
metals, possible protective effects of tobacco and caffeine, the underlying mechanisms
of dopamine cell death, and genetically determined susceptibility traits for Parkinson's
disease. ..."
How about effects of fragrance chemicals used 24/7, and shared with non-users, too!!!!! -- barb
http://www.parkinsonsinstitute.org/news/08-26-2002.html
- The Parkinson's Web
http://pdweb.mgh.harvard.edu/
Parks and Recreation
Parrish, Deborah
Boston Business Journal
One woman's allergic reaction Framingham woman's allergy symptoms
sparked small business selling to sufferers
By Roberta Holland Journal Staff
http://www.amcity.com/boston/stories/1998/09/28/smallb1.html
Pathways Awareness Foundation
"Pathways gained its name from the belief that the brain can create
new connections if the old connections no longer work."
http://www.pathwaysawareness.org
Partnership for Prevention
http://www.prevent.org/
Two bits' worth from barb; 12/6/00: Watch it if you read "Priorities in Prevention - a PDF file
Responding to the Asthma Epidemic ä September 2000." There is not ONE mention of the
words fragrance, perfume, air 'freshener.' They should start looking under their noses! At
least, they are starting to get it when it comes to pesticides: "... A related, but unproven,17 theory
is that high household pesticide levels could be partially linked to asthma. ..." But that's
not the end of my criticism: They use OLD data! They wrote: " ... Overall, the disease affects
about 14.5 million Americans, including roughly 5% of U.S. adults.4, 5 Inhalant Allergens. ..."
In the mid 1990s, it was 14.5, now it's more like 17.3 million and soaring. See EHN's
section on Statistics at http://users.lmi.net/~wilworks/ehnlinx/s.htm#Statistics -- barb
Priorities in Prevention - a PDF file
http://www.prevent.org/Winword/PinP_0900_Asthma1.pdf
Patents
Patients' Bill of Rights -- see EHN's page B/
http://users.lmi.net/wilworks/ehnlinx/b.htm#Bills
PBDEs - Polybrominated diphenyl ethers
PBS
http://www.pbs.org/
PBTs - Persistent, Bioaccumulative and Toxic Chemicals in Central and
Eastern European Countries - State-of-the-art Report
RECETOX - TOCOEN & Associates
http://recetox.chemi.muni.cz/PBTs/content.htm
THE PEACOCK INFORMATION CENTER
Pediatric Database
"[D]esigned by Dr. Alan Gandy (MD.,PhD.,FRCP(C)) while enrolled in the Pediatric
Residency Programme at the University of Western Ontario in London, Ontario,
Canada from 1990-1994. Presently he is a Consultant Pediatrician in Summerside,
Prince Edward Island, Canada. ..."
http://www.icondata.com/health/pedbase/index.htm
People For Internet Responsibility- PFIR (WWW.PFIR.ORG)
http://www.pfir.org/
Pepper Spray (Berkeley, California)
Pepper Spray (Humboldt County, California)
Perchloroethylene , perchlorate Perc"
Perfume
Fragrance: There is more to meet the nose than just scent!
That scent is concocted from petrochemical derivatives. I'm so sorry that folks think only to warn
me that they can't get near because they are wearing perfume, cologne, aftershave, highly
scented deodorant, etc., but never give a thought to the long-term effects they may be causing
their body. Skin is not a barrier, and besides, you inhale those chemicals too.
Doctors diagnose distinct diseases, but seldom will they come up with the cause. Perfumes and
other scented products may be the culprit. Look for that benign sounding word, "fragrance," on
the packaging . . . then look for safer alternatives. Learn as much as you can about the products
you are putting on your body as they become part of your body! -- barb wilkie
"Scent-Sensitive Nurse Sues LDS"
BY MICHAEL VIGH THE SALT LAKE TRIBUNE, Tuesday, October 15, 2002
"LDS Hospital nurse Susan Bell says she suffered for more than a year from daily
headaches, eye irritation, swelling of her face and lips and other symptoms because
her co-workers doused themselves in perfume or cologne.
"Bell, 57, says she became the office laughingstock for supervisors and colleagues,
some of whom continued to bathe in their perfumes even after she told them it made
her sick. She worked at the hospital for more than a decade before she took a disability
leave in March 2001.
"Last week, the Eagle Mountain woman filed a lawsuit against the hospital in U.S. District
Court, claiming supervisors failed to adequately accommodate her and enforce their
own policy prohibiting the wearing of heavy perfumes.
"I have allergic and severe reactions to fragrances and paints," Bell said in a statement to
the Utah Labor Commission's anti-discrimination division. "I complained to my
supervisors . . . and they promised to fix the problem, yet no action was taken and every
day I was sick at work.' ...
" ... Annette Green, [former] executive director of the Fragrance Foundation in New York,
has said the restrictions are much ado about nothing, arguing perfume does not
pollute the air and does not contain carcinogens, as cigarettes do."
[Emphasis added as I wonder, who is kidding whom? Analyses prove Green WRONG! -- barb]
http://www.sltrib.com/2002/oct/10152002/utah/7273.htm
California Health and Safety Code Section 41700
41700. Except as otherwise provided in Section 41705, no person shall discharge from
any source whatsoever such quantities of air contaminants or other material which cause
injury, detriment, nuisance, or annoyance to any considerable number of persons or
to the public, or which endanger the comfort, repose, health, or safety of any such
persons or the public, or which cause, or have a natural tendency to cause, injury or
damage to business or property. ..."
"... 41705. (a) Section 41700 shall not apply to odors emanating from agricultural
operations necessary for the growing of crops or the raising of fowl or animals.
http://caselaw.lp.findlaw.com/cacodes/hsc/41700-41712.html
- Perfume pollutes the air!
- CNS Story: FRAGRANCE Dec-15-2004 (860 words) xxxn
"Parishioners breathe easier in Seattle church's 'fragrance-free' zone"
By Terry McGuire; Catholic News Service
http://www.catholicnews.com/data/stories/cns/0406858.htm
- National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS)
Common Indoor Air Pollutants, under VOCs
http://www.niehs.nih.gov/external/faq/indoor.htm
- Perfumes cause allergies - News
"...The study concluded that the number of eczema patients with perfume allergy has
doubled since 1979 from one in twenty eczema patients to one in ten in 1995. ..."
"Tests by the perfume/cosmetics industry
"The majority of studies have been undertaken by the perfume/cosmetics industry, and
only a minor part are publicly available. Jeanne Duus Johansen suggests that when
the results are made public, they are likely to show better results than those of the
studies she has been involved with. This is because the industry tests perfumes on healthy
persons and so the number of allergic eczema reactions will always be lower than in
the studies at Gentofte University Hospital, where the substances are tested on eczema
patients. This means that the industry's research will not show how the
products affect people with allergy problems. ..."
Folks, this is just skin reactions of the primary user, at that. What about effects over time from
absorption? What about effects over time from inhaling? Remember scents are made to be
inhaled (smelled), yet the industry doesn't openly test for effects upon inhalation . . . inhalation by
user nor for effects upon inhalation by nonusers. Buyer BEWARE! Look for organic products,
free of petrochemical-derived fragrances for personal care and for cleaning and maintenance -- barb
http://www.gina.antczak.btinternet.co.uk/CU/CUNEWS.HTM#article1
- Perfume pollutes bodies! . . . your body and mine.
And, I don't use the stuff as perfume, nor in cosmetics or personal care products, nor as
household cleaning products.
Perfumes contain chemicals that are known or suspected carcinogens (capable of causing
cancer), hormone disrupters (look to phthalates, which are added to make scents last),
irritants (defined as poison to lungs and skin), neurotoxins (affecting brain and
nervous systems), sensitizers (lungs and skin) and teratogens (adversely affecting
embryonic and fetal development). Buy an analysis, OR, look at the analyses that form
the basis of EHN's 1999 FDA Citizens' Petition, assigned docket number 99P-1340.
Buyer beware! . . . Except you can't because the industry does not have to label fragrances,
and the FDA does not test before marketing and cannot require testing before marketing.
It is up to you, the consumer, to look for safer, fragrance-free products. Until you can
see evidence that modern, petrochemical-derived fragrances do not pollute your body,
look for safer alternatives. IF you acquire any of the diseases caused, exacerbated or
triggered by fragrances, you'll sure find fragrance-free alternatives; it's THE way of life for us. -- barb wilkie
EHN's FDA Petition Analysis
http://www.ehnca.org/FDApetition/analysis.htm.
GreenPeace UK analyses perfumes
http://www.greenpeace.org.uk/Products/Toxics/chemicalhouse.cfm?producttypeid=5
Are Chemical Health Hazards Hiding in Make-Up?
The Breast Cancer Fund's Press Releases
http://www.breastcancerfund.org/site/apps/nl/content.asp?c=kwKXLdPaE&b=86181&ct=90477
Dibutyl Phthalate
From EWG's report, via the UK
"Dibutyl Phthalate is just one ingredient in an alphabet soup of pollutants that
contaminate every person in the industrialized world! "
http://www.health-report.co.uk/phthalates.html
- Perfume pollutes the water!
Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products in the Environment:
Agents of Subtle Change?
Environmental Health Perspectives, Volume 107, Supplement 6, December 1999
http://ehp.niehs.nih.gov/members/1999/suppl-6/907-938daughton/daughton-full.html
AromaticsOnline - FAQs
" ... The main aromatics are benzene, toluene and the xylenes; they are used as starting materials for a wide range of consumer products. ..."
http://www.aromaticsonline.net/FAQintro.html
And from here, you can click out to information on benzene, toluene and the xylenes,
but there is not a separate link to provide. Intereestingly, when you look up the aromatics,benzene, toluene and the xylenes, you'll not find -- at least not at this time Feb '04 -- a hint that these chemicals are an important part of scent, even though "aromatic" means "fragrance." -- barb
You can also check Medline for information on perfume or fragrance. When doing so,
I brought up a page of chemicals, one of which was the "Fragrance material review on
linalyl phenylacetate" by RIFM (Research Institute for Fragrance Materials). On page,
http://intapp.medscape.com/px/medlineapp/getdoc?ord=2&searchid=1&have_local_holdings_file=1&local_journals_only=0&searchstring=perfume,
one will see a bunch of zeros by words such as Carcinogens, Irritants, Monoterpenes,
Mutagens, Perfume, Phenylacetates and Teratogens.
However, searching the CAS number, 7143-69-3, one can learn that linalyl phenylacetate,
used in "Fine Fragrance, Beauty Care, Soap, Laundry Care, Household" providing the
"honey-like warmth in exotic floral bouquets, as well as in sweet tropical fruit accords."
You'll also learn it is "not found in nature" and that its "[t]enacity on blotter [is] 9 hours."
All of that, but there seems to be no MSDS for 7143-69-3. Where's its toxicity info?
http://ingredients.givaudan.com/appl/fib/ing.nsf/0/1a4c0c60d8658635c1256a3800309235?OpenDocument
Linalyl phenylacetate is also "scheduled for evaluation or re-evaluation at the
fifty-ninth meeting of the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA),
Geneva, 4-13 June 2002.
http://archive.food.gov.uk/pdf_files/jecfarequest2002.pdf.
Seems to me we cannot learn enough about this chemical used as fragrance and flavor. -- barb
Cosmetics Unmasked News and Updates Page
http://www.gina.antczak.btinternet.co.uk/CU/CUNEWS.HTM
Search for fragrance or perfume on the Danish Environmental Protection Agency's site
Also see special EHN pages:
- Avoid Fragrances
http://users.lmi.net/~wilworks/ehnlinx/a.htm#AVOID
- FDA Petition, with analyses, contact information and complementary information
http://www.ehnca.org/FDApetition/bkgrinfo.htm
- Fragrance-Free
http://users.lmi.net/~wilworks/ehnlinx/f.htm#Fragrance-Free
- Fragrance Info
http://users.lmi.net/~wilworks/ehnlinx/f.htm#Fragrance
- Pregnancy & Fragrance
http://users.lmi.net/~wilworks/ehnlinx/p.htm#Pregnancy
- Take Heart!
(EHN's Access and Accommodation info page)
http://users.lanminds.com/~wilworks/ehnhompg/takheart.htm
- Acute toxic effects of fragrance products.
Author/s: Rosalind C. Anderson, Julius H. Anderson
Issue: March-April, 1998
http://www.zeal.com/exit.jhtml?cid=991790&wid=60362997&so=&xr=/website/profile.jhtml%3Fcid%3D991790%26wid%3D60362997
Danish Environmental Protection Agency on perfumed products
- Eastman
Eastman produces a variety of raw materials that may be used as solvents in the fragrance industry.
Also listed under EHN's section on Solvents. -- barb
http://www.eastman.com/Markets/Cosmetic_PersonalCare/Cosmetic_intro.asp
- EU [European Union] wants perfumers to list all ingredients used
French perfumers in a stink
Monday, 19 August, 2002, 15:55 GMT 16:55 UK
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/not_in_website/syndication/monitoring/media_reports/2202835.stm
- FDA Petition - requests the FDA follow the regulations already on its books
to require warning labels on products released to market without adequate testing.
Note: Be sure to click out to Analyses and Product Label. -- barb
http://www.ehnca.org/FDApetition/bkgrinfo.htm
- Laboratory 2: Analysis Summary
(Be sure to print this out and use it . . . notice all the chemicals listed on EPA's Toxic
Substances Control Act (TSCA) Inventory and on the Registry of Toxic Effects of
Chemical Substances (RTECS). As well as those that carry this line from their MSDS,
"The chemical, physical, and toxicological properties have not been thoroughly
investigated.") So, I ask, where is FDA's required warning label? -- barb
http://www.ehnca.org/FDApetition/analysis.htm
- Fragrance
Once on this page, you can click on Fragrance Info, Fragrance Free, Fragrance and Health... -- barb
http://users.lmi.net/~wilworks/ehnlinx/f.htm
- Fragrance manufacturers
- 1991 Report: Identification of Polar Volatile Organic Compounds in
Consumer Products and Common Microenvironments
http://www.ourlittleplace.com/epa.html
- 1992 Final Report: Polar Organic Compounds in Fragrances of Consumer Products
http://www.fpinva.org/composition.analysis.EPA.htm
- Asthmatics¼ reactions to common perfumes
American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology - press release
Scroll down.
My solution: Remove the fragrances to eliminate the asthma. Of course, that meant my
having to take early retirement. -- barb
http://www.aaaai.org/media/news_releases/2000/03/000304.html
- A COMMON FRAGRANCE COMPONENT INCREASES AIRWAY
RESPONSIVENESS AFTER SKIN SENSITISATION
Study out of Sweden. -- barb
http://www.ersnet.org/4/3/4_4_3_5.asp#fragrance
- Fragrance And Chemical Sensitivity Support Group
http://www.geocities.com/fragranceallergy/IndexContents.html
- History of Perfume
http://www.perfumes.com/history.htm
- Leaking scent strips and Postal Regulations
More information:
http://users.lmi.net/wilworks/ehnlinx/p.htm#Postal
- Leffingwell & Associates
http://www.leffingwell.com/
- Flavor and Fragrance links
http://www.leffingwell.com/links.htm
- Tobacco
A Review by John C. Leffingwell, Ph.D.
"As plants mature, or die, the chlorophyllic pigments rapidly decrease and virtually
disappear (one of the normal catabolic changes during plant senescence). This is
shown below for Burley tobacco after harvest, but is undoubtedly similar for other
(green) plants. Many of the same carotenoid degradation products found in tobacco
are also found in osmanthus, saffron, rose, boronia, quince & grapes.
http://www.leffingwell.com/tob.htm
- Lyral has been included in the patch test standard series in Germany.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=12084084&dopt=Abstract
- Musk
http://users.lmi.net/~wilworks/ehnlinx/m.htm#Musk
- Perfume Causes Allergy
"Perfume allergy is on the increase"
Danish Environment
Environmental magazine published twice yearly by the Danish EPA
Internet Edition 2; September 1996
http://www.mst.dk/magazine/issue2/perfume/Default.htm
- Perfume Ingredients
- Perfume and Neurological Effects
A couple of abstracts concerning musk are in this list. -- barb
http://www.herc.org/news/perfume/abstract2.htm
- PerfumersWorld
http://www.perfumersworld.com/index.html
- The Perfumers Workbook
http://www.perfumersworld.com/glossary.htm
- The ABC's of Perfumery
Copyright Stephen V. Dowthwaite, April 1998
http://www.perfumersworld.com/software/pwabc10.htm
- Index page
http://www.perfumersworld.com/index.htm
- Perfumes and Asthma Don't Mix
Trifold brochure developed by barb, based on collaborative effort
led by Julius Anderson, MD,PhD
http://users.lmi.net/~wilworks/ehnlinx/donmix.htm
- Raw Materials of Perfumery
Benzene is a known carcinogen ... Now, what is it the industry states about its modern scents?
Their products are safe, safety tested, don't contain carcinogens or neurotoxins????. Read on . . .
Use sense, not scents! Write to the FDA about Docket Number 99P-1340/CP 1
http://www.perfumersworld.com/chems/material.htm
- Canadian industry ad generated for the June 20, 2000 Halifax Press Conference
(See Another Perspective at http://users.lmi.net/~wilworks/ehnlinx/aaprbb.htm)
- "COMMON SENSE ABOUT SCENTS."
http://www.scentedproducts.on.ca/hdnad.jpg
The ad states in part: "The composition of perfumes hasn't changed much in
hundreds of years. They contain primarily water and alcohol -- of the same
type and purity we drink in beverages -- as well as essential fragrance oils."
Do notice that line about water and alcohol. Remember that when you read and
further investigate the information below. We do not drink denatured alcohol.
Do we really think the industry will pay the excise taxes to use "drinking
alcohol"? But more importantly, SPEIAC and the industry in general, always
assures us that their products are safe. And in this ad, they flat out state:
"Fragrance formulations do not contain toxic ingredients such as carcinogens or
neurotoxins." EXXXXCCCCUUUUUSSSSEEEE me!
To learn the TRUTH about chemicals used to manufacture
synthetic fragrances, please do visit
Perfumers World's "Materials Used In Perfumery"
http://www.perfumersworld.com/chems/material.htm
- Concerns over chemicals in cosmetics
Are åplasticizing¼ substances causing health woes?
By Francesca Lyman SPECIAL TO MSNBC
Read " åplasticizing¼ substances" and think PHTHALATES! -- barb
http://web.archive.org/web/20010609221623/www.msnbc.com/news/472235.asp?cp1=1
To see the duplicity of the fragrance industry in action, read,
"Scents and sensitivities ...," in which you will see the industry
assuring us on the one hand that their products are "thoroughly
tested before being marketed" and on the other, the same industry rep
states they have "begun the first study to examine fragrance inhalation."
- Scents and sensitivities
What to know before buying a Valentine¼s Day perfume
By Francesca Lyman; Feb. 6, 2002; MSNBC CONTRIBUTOR
Notice, the industry says it tests its products . . . and then states it has BEGUN testing.
Can't have it both ways, me thinks! -- barb
Mirrored by EHN through kind permission of Ms. Francesca Lyman and MSNBC
http://users.lmi.net/~wilworks/FDApetition/flscents.htm
Formerly at http://www.msnbc.com/news/702445.asp
And, of course, do study the FDA Petition, in which EHN requests
that the FDA follow its regulations already on its books to require
warning labels on fragrances released to market without adequate
testing . . . and then write to the FDA! They will have to be overwhelmed
by letters from the public before they seriously consider following their
mission. Notice #2 "cosmetics are safe and properly labeled," and
#4 "As determined to be appropriate by the Secretary, carry out
paragraphs (1) through (3) in consultation with experts in science,
medicine, and public health, and in cooperation with consumers,
users, manufacturers, importers, packers, distributors and retailers
of regulated products." -- barb
- FDA's Mission
http://www.fda.gov/opacom/morechoices/mission.html
- THE SCIENTIFIC COMMITTEE ON COSMETIC PRODUCTS AND
NON-FOOD PRODUCTS INTENDED FOR CONSUMERS POSITION
STATEMENT CONCERNING FRAGRANCE CHEMICALS IN DETERGENTS
AND OTHER HOUSEHOLD PRODUCTS [a PDF file]
http://europa.eu.int/comm/food/fs/sc/sccp/out171_en.pdf
Perfumes Pollute
See EHN's sections on:
Analysis Summary for FDA Citizens Petition 99P-1340
Chemicals identified by name and CAS number, with comments gleaned from MSDS. Plus
chemicals identified that also appear on the EPA's Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) Inventory
and on the Registry of Toxic Effects of Chemical Substances (RTECS). -- barb
http://www.ehnca.org/FDApetition/analysis.htm
Children's Environmental Health Coalition
Fragrance in Perfumes and Cosmetics
By Pamela Lundquist
"...Perfume consists mostly of chemicals called volatile organic compounds, or VOCs.
We smell fragrance chemicals because they become airborne due to their volatility.
While some may enjoy the wafting fragrance of a well-perfumed person passing by,
the chemicals may irritate others, especially in tight spaces, like an elevator. Perfume
can be a trigger for asthmatics and migraine and sinus headache sufferers, for example.
And children, since they are closer to the ground, are more likely to inhale VOCs as
they fall through the air. ..."
Note, search checnet.org for 'fragrance, perfume' and you'll get quite a list of articles. -- barb
http://www.checnet.org/healthehouse/education/articles-detail.asp?Main_ID=509
Ecology Center, Berkeley, California
The True Cost of Petroleum - Body Map
http://www.ecologycenter.org/erc/petroleum/body.html
"Fragrance: Emerging Health and Environmental Concerns"
By Betty Bridges, RN
http://www.fpinva.org/FragranceReview.htm
Fragrance-Free
http://users.lmi.net/wilworks/ehnlinx/f.htm#Fragrance-Free
Fragrance-free Products
http://users.lmi.net/wilworks/ehnlinx/f.htm#Care
Fragrance and Health
http://users.lmi.net/wilworks/ehnlinx/f.htm#Health
Fragrance Industry
http://users.lmi.net/wilworks/ehnlinx/f.htm#industry
Fragrance Info
http://users.lmi.net/wilworks/ehnlinx/f.htm#Fragrance
Fragrance Pollution
http://users.lmi.net/wilworks/ehnlinx/f.htm#Pollution
Health Care Without Harm - Fragrances
http://www.noharm.org/pesticidesCleaners/Fragrances
The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS)
"Common Indoor Air Pollutants"
http://www.niehs.nih.gov/external/faq/indoor.htm
Norway - study on fragrance air pollution
Kallenborn R, et al. Gas chromatographic determination of synthetic musk compounds
in Norwegian air samples, Journal of Chromatography A, 846 (1999) 295-306
from "References concerning polycyclic musk fragrances"
http://www.usf.uni-osnabrueck.de/~schwartz/fragrances.html
Not Too Pretty
http://www.nottoopretty.org
Perfumers World's "Materials Used In Perfumery"
Take note of their right hand column
"...Many of these synthetic chemicals are identical to those found in nature,
hence the term Nature Identical."
And to that, my body says, Oh, yeah?!?!?!? -- barb
http://www.perfumersworld.com/chems/material.htm
POPs (Persistent Organic Pollutants), just below
Peripheral Nueropathy
Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs)
Includes info on PPCPs (Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products)
Note, you may be interested in also reading, "Cumulative Impact" by
Gregory C. Pratt; Minnesota Pollution Control Agency
http://ehpnet1.niehs.nih.gov/docs/2000/108-4/correspondence.html
Also see EHN's section on Flame Retardants
- American Chemical Society
http://www.acs.org/
- The American Prospect
PCBs All Over Again: Introducing an industrial chemical that's everywhere --
and that you've probably never heard of.
By Natasha Hunter
http://www.prospect.org/print-friendly/webfeatures/2002/05/hunter-na-05-22.html
- Environmental Media Service
POPs Fast Facts - Last update: April 23, 2002
Source: Physicians for Social Responsibility
http://www.ems.org/pops/sub2_pops.html
- Greenpeace
Politics . . . and POPs
http://archive.greenpeace.org/~toxics/html/content/pop3.html
- Identification and Evaluation of Unidentified Organic Contaminants
in the San Francisco Estuary
http://www.google.com/search?q=cache:c5Zw444MOlIJ:www.sfei.org/rmp/reports/unidentified_contaminants/unidentifiedcont.pdf+%22Identification+and+Evaluation+of+Unidentified+Organic+Contaminants+in+the+San+Francisco+Estuary%22&hl=en&ie=UTF-8
or as a PDF: http://www.sfei.org/rmp/reports/unidentified_contaminants/unidentifiedcont.pdf
- Newswise
Survey Identifies Drugs Most Likely to be Found in the Environment
http://www.newswise.com/articles/2002/4/200DRUGS.ACS.html
- OSPAR Commission 2000 - Northeast Atlantic Region
4.5 Organic pollutants
http://www.ospar.org/eng/html/qsr2000/qec4.htm#4.5
- PANNA's POPs resources
http://www.panna.org/resources/pops.html
PEN Calls for Alternatives to Persistent Toxic Chemicals
by Bill Smedley, PEN's Dioxin/Incinerator Team Leader
The Pennsylvania Environmental Network
Supporting grassroots activists throughout PA
http://www.penweb.org/pennews/ASA.html
- Persistent, Bioaccumulative and Toxic Chemicals in Central and
Eastern European Countries - State-of-the-art Report
RECETOX - TOCOEN & Associates
http://recetox.chemi.muni.cz/PBTs/chapter1-3.htm
- Pharm Pollution - Excreted antibiotics can poison plants
By Janet Raloff; Science News Online; Week of June 29, 2002; Vol. 161, No. 26
" Patrick K. Jjemba was curious about the interplay of protozoa and the bacteria they eat
in soil. As part of his research, he began altering the organisms' environment. When
he applied large amounts of protozoan-killing antibiotics to dirt around the roots of
soybeans, Jjemba was amazed at what happened. The drugsãwidely used in human
and veterinary medicineãdid far more than subtly alter the balance of microbial
predators and prey. One drug stunted soybeans, and another killed the plants. ..."
http://www.sciencenews.org/20020629/bob7.asp
- Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products in the Environment:
Agents of Subtle Change?
Environmental Health Perspectives Volume 107, Supplement 6, December 1999
Excerpted from the full article:
"... Personal Care Products in the Environment ...
"...Personal care products differ from pharmaceuticals in that large amounts can be
directly introduced to the environment. For example, these products can be released
directly into recreational waters or volatilized into the air (e.g., musks). Because of this
direct release they can bypass possible degradation in POTWs. Also, in contrast to
pharmaceuticals, less is known about the effects of this broad and diverse class of
chemicals on nontarget organisms, especially aquatic organisms. Data are also limited
on the unexpected effects on humans. For example, common sunscreen ingredients,
2-phenylbenzimidazole-5-sulfonic acid and 2-phenylbenzimidazole, can effect DNA
breakage when exposed to UV-B (94).
The quantities of personal care products produced commercially can be very large. For
example, in Germany alone the combined annual output for eight separate categories
has been estimated (95) at 559,000 tons for 1993 (Table 3). A few examples are given
below of common personal care products that are ubiquitous pollutants and that
may possess substantial bioactivity. ..."
http://ehpnet1.niehs.nih.gov/docs/1999/suppl-6/907-938daughton/abstract.html
Full story: http://ehp.niehs.nih.gov/members/1999/suppl-6/907-938daughton/daughton-full.html
- POPs
"Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) are chemical substances that persist in the
environment, bioaccumulate through the food web, and pose a risk of causing adverse
effects to human health and the environment. With the evidence of long-range
transport of these substances to regions where they have never been used or produced
and the consequent threats they pose to the environment of the whole globe, the
international community has now, at several occasions called for urgent global actions
to reduce and eliminate releases of these chemicals."
http://irptc.unep.ch/pops/
- POPS: The United Nations Environment Program Treaty Process on
Persistent Organic Pollutants
Commonweal's interest in POPs reflects our broader interest in chemicals that pose a threat to
human and wildlife health, whether as carcinogens, teratogens, or developmental and
reproductive toxins (some but not all of which are also endocrine disrupters). This interest
is reflected nationally in our work with the Health Care Without Harm campaign.
http://www.commonweal.org/pops.html
- PubMed
- Determination of musks and other fragrance compounds at ng/L levels using
CLSA (closed loop stripping analysis) and GC/MS detection.
"... All samples contained differents musks at ng/l levels with the polycyclic musks
Galaxolide and Tonalide and both fragrances, Amberonne and Acetyl cedrene, being the
most abundant. These results suggest the importance of studying and controlling the
presence of these ubiquitous environmental compounds in water systems."
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=15497838
- Society of Environmental Journalists
http://www.sej.org
- STOCKHOLM CONVENTION ON PERSISTENT ORGANIC POLLUTANTS (POPs)
"The Stockholm Convention is a global treaty to protect human health and the
environment from persistent organic pollutants (POPs). "
What about fragrance chemicals, folks? They, like pharmaceuticals, pollute downstream. -- barb
http://www.pops.int/
- Toledo Blade
http://www.toledoblade.com/
The following is from an excellent article that was allowed to remain online for a far
shorter period of time than other Michael Woods articles. No amount of my pleading with the
Blade to make it available to the public did any good. Finally, one staffer told me: Look it up in
the library. All credit is in place and I bring you this much of that excellent article so you
know to check your library for a copy of the entire article. -- barb
Synthetic musk linked to environmental risks
March 24, 1999
BY MICHAEL WOODS
BLADE SCIENCE EDITOR
"ANAHEIM, Calif.--Synthetic fragrances used in perfumes, soaps, laundry
detergents, fabric softeners, cosmetics, and scores of other consumer
products have become a new and unexpected group of environmental
contaminants, scientists said.
"The chemicals are accumulating in human fat tissue, blood, breast
milk, drinking water supplies, lakes and streams, fish and wildlife, and
elsewhere in the environment, according to scientists interviewed here.
They are presenting scientific reports at a national meeting of the
American Chemical Society.
Michael Woods goes on to quote Dr. Sebastian Kevekordes, University of Gottingen, Germany:
"I think there is reason for public concern about possible effects of these fragrances. One
compound, musk xylene, has carcinogenic, or cancer-causing, effects in laboratory mice."
Woods then tells us of another musk: "... musk ketone damages genes in animal experiments and
has other worrisome effects. "
The studies of synthetic musk in human breast tissue, and mother's milk, as well as winding
up downstream and in our general environment are from Europe and Japan. But they are used
even more heavily in the US. Check your personal care products, and your cleaning and
maintenance products . . . you'll not be told that they contain anything more than FRAGRANCE.
Caveat Emptor. Fragrances are concocted of from tens to hundreds of chemicals and are known
to contain irritants and sensitizers, as well as known or suspected carcinogens, hormone disrupters
(e.g., phthalates, neurotoxins and teratogens (adversely affecting embryonic and fetal development).
To check this out, visit FDA Petition - Docket Number 99P - 1340 (with contact information) -- barb
http://www.ehnca.org/FDApetition/bkgrinfo.htm
- U.S. Statement on Persistent Organic Pollutants Treaty - 11 December 2000
"(U.S. pleased with outcome of talks to control toxic chemicals)"
http://www.usembassy.it/file2000_12/alia/a0121107.htm
- USGS - Research on Emerging Water Quality Issues
http://toxics.usgs.gov/regional/emc.html
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
November 29, 2000
FACT SHEET: Overview on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs):
What The United States Has Done and What The Global Convention Will Do
Fragrance chemicals aren't even on their radar screen. -- barb
http://usinfo.state.gov/topical/global/environ/00112901.htm
Personal Environmental Control (PEC)
Chemical Injury Recovery Fund (CIRF)
http://www.palantir.ca/PEC/
PERSONAL CARE PRODUCTS
Also see
Cosmetics
Fragrances
Shampoo
Soap
Dangerous chemicals in personal care products compromise health
NewsTarget Network; Posted Mar 7, 2005 PT by the Health Ranger (Mike Adams)
http://www.newstarget.com/005342.html
Personal Health Zone - Includes Herbal info
http://www.personalhealthzone.com/
Pest Management, Integrated (IPM)
Please see our new page of information: Pest Management, Pesticide Information and Pests
http://users.lmi.net/~wilworks/ehnlinx/pestcide.htm
Fabulous Web Sites!
Ted Radcliffe and Bill Hutchison
Department of Entomology, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN
Found via the Wayback Machine. -- barb
http://web.archive.org/web/19971015110717/http://www.ent.agri.umn.edu/academics/classes/ipm/favorite.htm
Pesticide Watch
http://www.pesticidewatch.org/
Pesticides
Please see our new page of information:Pest Management, Pesticide Information and Pests
http://users.lmi.net/~wilworks/ehnlinx/pestcide.htm
Note: So many want to know about prenotification forms, so I thought I'd bring
this info to the top of the resources on pesticides and how to avoid them. Please visit
Environmental Illness Society of Canada at http://www.eisc.ca/prenotification.htm
Pests
--
Please see our new page of information: Pest Management, Pesticide Information and Pests
http://users.lmi.net/~wilworks/ehnlinx/pestcide.htm
Petitions
Pets
- Animals and Cancer
CRSSCA - Cancer Registry & Surveillance System for Companion Animals
http://envirocancer.cornell.edu/anireg.cfm
- Birds
9 Scents -- Chemical substances in animal care products - Updated 09/06/04
Danish Environmental Protection Agency
"We have chosen to describe the scents in a separate chapter, partly
because perfume substances are not specifically regulated in their own annext to the
cosmetics legislation and partly because scents may be the most frequent cause of allergy
besides preservatives.
The function of scents in the products is partly to provide a sensation of
well-being and partly to mask any other unpleasantly smelling ingredients in the product.
There is a lot of focus on scents and their sensitizing potention. Perfume
allergy is an increasingly big consumer problem and a regulation within this substance [empahsis added]
group is underway. At the moment, scents in cosmetics do not have to be declared. It is
sufficient to state the substance group "perfume". In the coming amendment to the
Cosmetics Directive, which is expected to be implemented in the Danish legislation in 2004,
a number of likely sensitizing perfume substances must be stated on the INCI declaration
if the content is > 0.001% for "leave on products" and 0.01% for "rinse-off products". This
information will improve the diagnosis of contact allergy in the consumers who are
perfume sensitive and make it possible for them to avoid the use of the cosmetic
porducts and chemical substances containing these substances.
Perfume may either be individual low-molecular synthetic substances
or natural plant oils and extracts. Both types of scents, the synthetic and the natural,
may cause allergic reactions. Perfumes as commodities are often a complex mixture of
various scents including many of the substances stated in table 8.1.
EU`s Scientific Committe on Cosmetic Products and non-food Products
(SCCNFP) has prepared a list of 24 scents considered to be potential skin allergens.
These are the 24 scents for which analyses have been carried out for the animal care
products, see chapter 7.
The 24 perfume substances can be seen in table 8.1.
Table 8.1 Perfume substances considered to be potential skin allergens. ...
Remember, these products could be harmful to inhale, and if you are applying to your animal, or
petting your animal, you, too, are in contact. -- barb
http://www.mst.dk/chemi/01083810.htm
Found via a search for PERFUME under Chemicals. -- barb
http://www.mst.dk/search/
NEW TREATMENTS BEING CONSIDERED FOR FELINE ASTHMA
Media Relations & Marketing
Source: Lisa Moore, 785-532-5690; e-mail: lmoore@vet.ksu.edu
.
News release prepared by: Mark Berry, 785-532-6415 - Friday, May 10, 2002
"... Cats with asthma are often sensitive to cigarette smoke, perfume, aerosols, dusty cat litter and powdered carpet deodorizers ..."
Instead of loading poor kitty up with drugs, why not switch to fragrance-free, eco-friendly
products and save your own health and the health of your children as well? -- barb
http://www.mediarelations.ksu.edu/WEB/News/NewsReleases/listasthma51002.html
Gillian's Help Desk
A list of information about birds. -- barb
http://www.exoticbird.com/gillian/
Scented Candles Kill Pet Birds!
by Monica Sudds Certified Avian Specialist
President Beakers Parrot Society
Iowa State Coordinator for the American Federation of Aviculture
http://www.birdlink.com/Info/candle.html
We're Parrots Too! -- Article Arena
http://www.highwayq.com/wpt/articles/library/febreze.htm
Cats
- Feline Vaccinology
By Julie K. Levy, DMV
Current vaccine recommendations
"... While few would dispute that vaccination is responsible for saving the lives of
millions of cats, the recent recognition of rare, life-threatening reactions to vaccination
has led some veterinarians to re-evaluate the need to revaccinate cats every year. ..."
http://www.netcat.org/symposium/vaccinology.html
Dogs
Pets in general
-- end pets --
Pew Environmental Health Commission
"The Pew Commission officially ended on February 28, 2001.
Please visit The Trust for America's Health at
http://healthyamericans.org"
John Hopkins School of Public Health
http://pewenvirohealth.jhsph.edu/
- Reports - PDF files and HTML links
http://pewenvirohealth.jhsph.edu/html/reports/menu.html
- ASTHMA CASES PROJECTED TO DOUBLE BY 2020;
WILL HIT 29 MILLION AMERICANS; 1 IN 5 FAMILIES
Commission Charges Federal Government Is Failing to Stop Asthma Epidemic
This is a PDF file, available from link, above. It does not contain one word about synthetic
chemical products.
As horrifying as those stats are, just think how many people could help themselves -- and their
loved ones, friends and colleagues who live with asthma -- by simply reducing the number of
superfluous toxins in their lives.
Had those of us living with MCS been listened to lo these many years, perhaps these asthma
figures would not be skyrocketing now. These figures have soared during the very period of time
that fragrances have been added to a greater array of products and have been formulated to
"announce," to "remind," to waft further and last longer. Add to that, the practice that finds more
fragrance products are worn more places than ever before, and you've got grounds for a
public health disaster. And the populations most affected are the very peoples targeted by the
fragrance industry. And now, the industry is targeting children for their "new profit center."
Sound unbelievable? See EHN's section on Statistics at
http://users.lmi.net/~wilworks/ehnlinx/s.htm#Statistics
How can these numbers be reduced? How can lives be spared? Let's start with PREVENTION.
Let's get that horse back in front of the cart! How? By immediately eliminating synthetic
fragrances, pesticidees, and fertilizers. Also by switching to low-emitting VOC products such as:
paints, carpets, and carpet adhesives. Just for starters!
And lest you wonder, I make these suggestions based upon my experience. I'm living proof that
one can get better. I'm not cured, because I'm still put in harm's way by these superfluous
toxins in our modern products. But, once I retired -- although I certainly hadn't wanted to
retire! -- I was no longer daily inhaling the superfluous toxins worn and used by others. Adding
to my ongoing chiropractic treatment, I also started acupuncture and Chinese herb treatments,
and learned acupressure points. My body was one of those that got sicker on prescribed drugs
-- some asthma inhaler episodes were quite daunting. Now, I don't live daily with asthma, nor
do I live with chronic bronchits, sinusitis, laryngitis, rhinitis, migraines, . . .
There is hope. We need health care that causes no harm. And we must practice AVOIDANCE.
But, therein lies the trick -- how to avoid superfluous toxins that volatilize from the products
used by others? I use a mask and/or a respirator and oxygen on an as-needed basis. -- barb. 12/8/00
Pfiesteria
http://www.pfiesteria.org/pfiesteria/index.html
Pharmaceutical Industry
Also see EHN's section on DRUGS
http://users.lmi.net/~wilworks/ehnlinx/d.htm#Drugs
Phenol
EPA's Phenol - 108-95-2 - Hazard Summary
"Exposure to phenol may occur from the use of some medicinal products (including throat lozenges and ointments). Phenol is highly irritating to the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes in humans after acute (short-term) inhalation or dermal exposures. Phenol is considered to be quite toxic to humans via oral exposure. Anorexia, progressive weight loss, diarrhea, vertigo, salivation, a dark coloration of the urine, and blood and liver effects have been reported in chronically (long-term) exposed humans. Animal studies have reported reduced fetal body weights, growth retardation, and abnormal development in the offspring of animals exposed to phenol by the oral route. EPA has classified phenol as a Group D, not classifiable as to human carcinogenicity.
http://www.epa.gov/ttnatw01/hlthef/phenol.html
- HOW TOXIC IS YOUR HOME? LETS FIND OUT
HOUSEHOLD CLEANING PRODUCTS
By Dr. Wolff
Phenol is listed twice -- under Disinfectants and Furniture polish. -- barb
http://www.askdrwolff.com/cleaning.htm
- if Looks Could Kill
From The Cosmetic Health Report Newsletter
by Judi Vance
"...The deodorant soap has a pH of 9, which removes the protective acid mantle of the
skin making it more alkaline and therefore, more vulnerable to penetration. It also
contains ammonia, formaldehyde and phenol, which are known carcinogens and
triclocarban, which is under suspicion of being a cancer causing agent with daily use...."
http://www.healthylivingintl.com/bath/newsletter.htm
- IRIS - Integrated Risk Information System -- US EPA
http://www.epa.gov/iris/subst/0088.htm#II.
- Lakes Environmental Software
"EPA has classified phenol as a Group D, not classifiable as to human carcinogenicity,
based on a lack of data concerning carcinogenic effects in humans and animals."
http://www.lakes-environmental.com/toxic/PHENOL.HTML
- Medical Management Guidelines for Acute Chemical Exposures
http://aepo-xdv-www.epo.cdc.gov/wonder/prevguid/p0000016/p0000016.htm#head005010000000000
- MSDS - Mallinckrodt - JT Baker
Phenol: Synonyms: Carbolic acid; Phenic acid; Phenylic acid; Hydroxybenzene;
Monohydroxybenzene; CAS No.: 108-95-2
http://www.jtbaker.com/msds/p1952.htm
- National Occupational Health and Safety Commission - Commonwealth of Australia
http://www.worksafe.gov.au/databases/exp/az/Phenol.htm
- Phenols - Heritage Research Center Ltd.
"...Although phenol occurs naturally, it is important to note that some phenol
compounds are used as pesticides.
"In humans, high exposure to phenols can result in: muscle pain, anorexia, liver damage,
weight loss, blood disorders, and fatigue and to increased risks of respiratory cancer,
heart disease, immune system disorders.
"In animals, high exposure to phenols can result in: muscle tremors and loss of
coordination, paralysis, severe injury to the heart, kidneys, liver, and
lungs, followed by death in some cases.
"Although animal studies suggest a link between phenols and cancer, it has not yet been
definitively classified as a human carcinogen. ..."
http://www.heritageresearch.com/manufactured_gas_K.htm
- UATW - Unified Air Toxics Website - EPA
http://www.epa.gov/ttn/uatw/hlthef/phenol.html
- Vaccine Ingredients
"Phenol (also a carcinogen) - may cause paralysis, convulsions, coma, and necrosis
and gangrene "
http://www.mercola.com/article/vaccines/ingredients.htm
Phenylpropanolamine (PPA)
Pheromones
Philip Morris Incorporated Document Site
http://www.pmdocs.com/
Phone Services - Long Distance
Photosensitivity
Drug-induced Photosensitivity
(Our Read-it-at-the-Beach Issue!)
Marcia L. Buck, Pharm.D.
http://hsc.virginia.edu/cmc/pedpharm/v4n6.htm
PHOTOSENSITIVITY AND OTHER ADVERSE REACTIONS TO SUNLIGHT
Richard F. Edlich, M.D., Ph.D.
Distinguished Professor of Plastic Surgery
and Professor of Biomedical Engineering
University of Virginia Health Systems
Martha J. Haines, B.S.N
Research Associate
Charlottesville, VA
http://www.liveabled.com/manual/photosensitivity.htm
Phthalates
Also see EHN's page on Endocrine [hormone] Disrupters
http://users.lmi.net/~wilworks/ehnlinx/e.htm#Endocrine
Note: Please use your broswers FIND command to locate all info on phthalates on this page.
Also, I ask that you keep in mind that while phthalates are finally getting the press they
deserve, they are not the only harmful chemicals to be found through analyses of
modern, petrochemical-derived fragrances.
Used as plasticizers in toys, IVs, ..., AND used in fragrances! -- as found in 1998, and
made public by Betty Bridges, RN and Barb Wilkie, May 11, 1999 via analysis for EHN's
FDA Citizens' Petition. See, Analysis summary (table) for FDA Citizens' Petition 99P-1340.
Do notice the number of fragrance chemicals found through analysis that carry the message,
"The chemical, physical, and toxicological properties have not been thoroughly investigated."
Also notice the chemicals that appear on EPA's Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) Inventory
and the Registry of Toxic Effects of Chemical Substances (RTECS).
EHN's: http://users.lmi.net/~wilworks/FDApetition/analysis.htm
Or, on Betty's Fragranced Products Information Network at
http://www.fpinva.org/Activist/FDAanalysis.htm
Petition Statement
"Diethyl Phthalate (CAS# 84-66-2) was positively identified as being present. Further study
showed the temperature needed to volatilize Diethyl Phthalate was much higher than skin
temperature. This indicates the compound would remain on the skin which would increase
potential for absorption. With concerns over diethyl phthalate as a hormone disrupter, use in
direct skin contact products, especially products that are used on a daily basis poses serious
health concerns. Phthalates are known to be lipophilic in nature and have the potential to
accumulate in fat tissue.
http://users.lmi.net/~wilworks/FDApetition/fdapetit.htm
April 2001FDA on Phthalates -- Phthalates and Cosmetic Products
Excerpted: " ... How do I know if there are phthalates in the cosmetics I use?
"Under the authority of the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act (FPLA), FDA requires an
ingredient declaration on the cosmetic products sold at the retail level to consumers.
Consumers can tell whether some products contain phthalates by reading the ingredient
declaration on the labels of such products.
"However, the regulations do not require the listing of the individual fragrance
ingredients; therefore, the consumer will not be able to determine from the ingredient
declaration if phthalates are present in a fragrance. Also, because the FPLA does not
apply to products used exclusively by professionals--for example, in salons--the
requirement for an ingredient declaration does not apply to these products. ..."
Now hear this! Most, if not all (remember there is no labeling required and it costs money to
have scents analyzed!), synthetic fragrances do contain phthalates because phthalates make the
petrochemically concocted scent last longer! If there was no worry about the various chemicals
used to make fragrances, then the industry would inform us. They'd be happy to do so. As it is,
the lobbying arm of the industry claims that their products and ingredients are "safe and
wholesome." NOW I ask: Where is the proof of that? Safe? WHOLESOME? ... when millions are
made ill, disabled and some prematurely dead because of petrochemically derived scents? Come
now! When will the FDA wake up to the letters re: EHN's FDA Petition 99P-1340, written by
WE, THE PEOPLE??? -- barb
http://www.cfsan.fda.gov/~dms/cos-phth.html
July 10, 2002 --New study out on phthalates, available from Not Too Pretty
http://www.nottoopretty.org
Phthalates in fragrances make the scent last longer. Source: "Phthalates and Your Health"
by American Chemistry Council, Inc., July 10, 2002.
"When perfume fragrances are dissolved in either DEP or DMP,
they evaporate more slowly, making the scent linger longer."
To my mind, this proves once again the reasoning behind the fragrance industry's
public relations campaign calling for public awareness of one's "scent circle" is fallacious.
http://users.lmi.net/wilworks/ehnlinx/s.htm#CIRCLE
FDA Petition Analyses
http://www.ehnca.org/FDApetition/bkgrinfo.htm#Analyses
Also see
Hormone Disrupters
Plastic Bottles, below
- Aubrey Organics
Prenatal Cosmetics & Personal Care
By C. Leigh Broadhurst, Ph.D.
"...That a doctor would've prescribed lindane to anyone -- much less someone who
is pregnant -- is criminal. Lindane is a cancer-causing, neurotoxic pesticide. ..."
Also, see Xenoestrogens in Cosmetics in this article. -- barb
http://www.aubrey-organics.com/articles/prenatal.cfm
Notice the assurances from links below. At the same time, think about how many times you
have read or heard that one-word non-explanation explanation, "UNEXPLAINED," when our
experts have been asked WHY? Why are there skyrocketing rates of asthma? Why are there
soaring rates of cancers? Why are there escalating cases of ADD and Autism? Why are there so
many reproductive, pregnancy and new born health problems? WHY???? -- barb
- Assurances by Industry
- American Chemistry Council's Phthalates site
http://www.phthalates.org
- Panel Reaffirms Phthalates In Cosmetics are "Safe for Use"
"November 19, 2002 -- In a triumph for science-based evidence over scare tactics, an
independent panel reviewing the safety of phthalates in cosmetics has concluded that
these compounds can continue to be used safely in high-quality cosmetics and personal
care products. ..."
SCARE TACTICS? or CAVEAT EMPTRO! The consumer has a right to know what's in
products used on the body and that become one with the air all must breathe. -- barb
http://www.phthalates.org/mediacenter/pep_2002_11_19.html
- Breast Cancer Fund - Environmental Health / Phthalates
- Chemical Fact Sheets: PHTHALATES
"Phthalates are a versatile class of chemicals that are widely used in consumer products to
soften plastics, carry fragrances, and act as solvents and fixatives. ..."
http://www.breastcancerfund.org/site/pp.asp?c=kwKXLdPaE&b=84570
- Chemical Offender: DBP
Cosmetics Ingredient Raises Risk for Breast Cancer and Birth Defects
"... Because DBP is used in some cosmetics products, especially nail polishes and perfumes,
its ability to inhibit tamoxifen-induced apoptosis (cell death) could affect women with
breast cancer who take the drug to prevent recurrence. Sometimes DBP is not listed as an
ingredient on product labelsãphthalates are often concealed in the term 'fragrance.' ..."
http://www.breastcancerfund.org/site/pp.asp?c=kwKXLdPaE&b=1598645
- Safer Cosmetics for California Workers & Consumers - Support AB 908 (Chu)
"... Because phthalates are often used as a fragrance component, even an
educated consumer cannot use the label to avoid them. A 2002 study of
cosmetics labeling found phthalates in 52 of 72 products tested, yet not
one of the products listed the phthalate on its label.Ý
In the absence of FDA authority, the cosmetics industry sponsors a panel of
scientists called the Cosmetic Ingredient Review. This panel has
exonerated phthalates, resting its conclusion on a number of dubious
findings.Ý The CIR cites, for example, a 'safe dose' level based on a 51 year
old rat mortality study that does not reflect any of the scientific findings
of the last five years that demonstrate effects on developing reproductive
systems. The FDA, unmoved by the extensive work of its European
counterparts, has cited the panel¼s work in claiming on its website that
there is „no reasonä to be alarmed¾ by phthalates. ..."
Come on folks, get smart. Look for the word "fragrance" or "parfume" on the label and if you see
it, refuse to buy that product. There ARE safer alternatives. The only problem is that you can be
too easily fooled by the industry's allowed prevarications . . . "fragrance-free" or "unscented."
Products are allowed to be so called, even though they contain masking scent. Unfair to the
health of millions. So look for products that are not afraid to list their ingredients! -- barb
http://www.breastcancerfund.org/site/pp.asp?c=kwKXLdPaE&b=2187421
Dibutyl Phthalate
From EWG's report, via the UK
"Dibutyl Phthalate is just one ingredient in an alphabet soup of pollutants that
contaminate every person in the industrialized world! "
http://www.health-report.co.uk/phthalates.html
- Campaign for Safe Cosmetics
CAMPAIGN RELEASES STATEMENT ON NEW STUDY THAT FINDS
GENITAL ABNORMALITIES IN BOYS DUE TO PHTHALATES EXPOSURE
May 27, 2005
http://www.safecosmetics.org/news/press.cfm?pressReleaseID=8
- GOVERNOR SIGNS SAFE COSMETICS BILL
"... Currently, the FDA does not review cosmetic ingredients for their safety
before they come to market, nor does it have the authority to recall
hazardous products. SB 484 will:Ý
- ÝRequire cosmetics manufacturers to disclose to the state any product ingredient that
is on state or federal lists of chemicals that cause cancer or birth defects.
- ÝAllow the state Department of Health Services (DHS) to demand manufacturers
supply any health related information about cosmetic ingredients.
- ÝAuthorize CalOSHA to regulate the products to protect salon workers if they
determine a safety risk.Ý
The author of SB 484, Senator Carole Migden (D-San Francisco), applauded
Governor Schwarzenegger¼s action: 'This is the strongest bill in the
nation to protect cosmetics consumers.Ý It will go a long way to protect
public health.'Ý"
So, I ask, where's the proof that this bill is being enacted? -- barb
http://www.safecosmetics.org/newsroom/press.cfm?pressReleaseID=13
- DEHP Facts.com
July 10, 2002 -- "Some Incorrect Statements by Health Care Without Harm"
"dehp-facts.com is an initiative of the European Council for Plasticisers and Intermediates (ECPI)
Notice this is the date that Not Too Pretty was released AND this is by the industry! -- barb
http://www.dehp-facts.com/hcwh.htm
Beauty Secrets - Does A Common Chemical (Dibutyl Phthalates) In Nail Polish AND
Personal Care Products Pose Risks To Human Health?
Courtesy of E N V I R O N M E N T A L W O R K I N G G R O U P
http://www.health-report.co.uk/phthalates.html
- Environmental Health Perspectives
Volume 105, Number 8, August 1997
The Estrogenic Activity of Phthalate Esters In Vitro
Catherine A. Harris, 1 Pirkko Henttu, 2 Malcolm G. Parker, 2 and John P. Sumpter 1
1 Department of Biology and Biochemistry,
Brunel University, Uxbridge, Middlesex, United Kingdom
2 Molecular Endocrinology Laboratory, Imperial Cancer Research Fund,
London, United Kingdom
Abstract
A large number of phthalate esters were screened for estrogenic activity using a
recombinant yeast screen. A selection of these was also tested for mitogenic effect on
estrogen-responsive human breast cancer cells. A small number of the commercially
available phthalates tested showed extremely weak estrogenic activity. The relative
potencies of these descended in the order butyl benzyl phthalate (BBP)>dibutyl phthalate
(DBP)>diisobutyl phthalate (DIBP)>diethyl phthalate (DEP)>diisononyl phthalate
(DINP). Potencies ranged from approximately 1 10 6 to 5 10 7 times less than 17þ-
estradiol. The phthalates that were estrogenic in the yeast screen were also mitogenic on
the human breast cancer cells. Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) showed no
estrogenic activity in these in vitro assays. A number of metabolites were tested,
including mono-butyl phthalate, mono-benzyl phthalate, mono-ethylhexyl phthalate,
mono- n -octyl phthalate; all were found to be inactive. One of the phthalates, ditridecyl
phthalate (DTDP), produced inconsistent results; one sample was weakly estrogenic,
whereas another, obtained from a different source, was inactive. Analysis by gel
chromatography-mass spectrometry showed that the preparation exhibiting estrogenic
activity contained 0.5% of the ortho -isomer of bisphenol A. It is likely that the
presence of this antioxidant in the phthalate standard was responsible for the generation
of a dose-response curve--which was not observed with an alternative sample that
had not been supplemented with o , p ¥-bisphenol A--in the yeast screen; hence,
DTDP is probably not weakly estrogenic. The activities of simple mixtures of BBP, DBP,
and 17þ-estradiol were assessed in the yeast screen. No synergism was observed,
although the activities of the mixtures were approximately additive. In summary, a
small number of phthalates are weakly estrogenic in vitro . No data has yet been
published on whether these are also estrogenic in vivo ; this will require tests using
different classes of vertebrates and different routes of exposure. Key words :
contaminated standards, estrogenicity, MCF-7, metabolites, phthalates, recombinant
yeast screen, ZR-75. Environ Health Perspect 105:802-811 (1997).
---------
Address correspondence to C.A. Harris
Department of Biology and Biochemistry
Brunel University
Uxbridge, Middlesex, UB8 3PH, U.K.
http://www.ehponline.org/docs/1997/105-8/harris.html
- Environmental Working Group
Pregnancy Concerns
"Therefore, based on demonstrated reproductive and developmental toxicity
associated with dermal and other exposures, these ingredients are considered
unsafe for use in cosmetic formulations.
ã Cosmetic industry safety panel's findings on ethoxyethanol acetate (CIR 2003),
an ingredient that continues to be used in Anna Sui nail color 105"
Information on phthalates, which are commonly used in fragrances to make the scent last. -- barb
http://www.ewg.org/reports/skindeep/report/pregnancy_concerns.php#phthalates
June 14, 2004 -- Environmental Working Group's investigation: A safety assessment of
ingredients in personal care products . . . Fragrances
http://www.ewg.org/reports/skindeep/report/allergies.php
"... Based on their experience in treating people sensitized to cosmetics, the American
Academy of Dermatology recommends that sensitized patients use only fragrance-free
products, and avoid all perfumes, colognes, after-shaves, fingernail care products,
and hair spray (AAD 2000). ..." The Petition begins at
http://www.ewg.org/reports/skindeep/petition/index.php
Poisoned Cosmetics, Not Too Pretty
Environmental Working Group's Phthalates Facts
http://www.nottoopretty.org/
- Health Care Without Harm
International Fragrance Association
PHTHALATES in COSMETIC PRODUCTS; July 16, 2002
"A coalition of three US-based activist groups: Environmental Working Group, Coming Clean & Health Care without Harm has launched a concerted attack on cosmetics containing 'Phthalates' ... .
" ... In June 2002 the scientific advisory committee to the European Commission in
matters of consumer protection with respect to cosmetics and non-food products
(SCCNFP) has issued an opinion on the use of diethyl phthalate in cosmetic products
(SCCNFP/0411/01, final, attached to the lL). The conclusions reached in this opinion are
that the safety profile of DEP supports its use in cosmetic products at current levels.
[Emphasis added.]
"Therefore the continued use of diethyl phthalate is completely consistent with
independent expert opinion in all aspects relating to the safety of consumers.
"Questions about the safety in use of other phthalates (which have little use in fragrance
manufacture) will remain subject to further investigations. Attempts by the above
mentioned activist groups to increase the amplitude of the "problem" by attacking
cosmetics containing DEP are as deceptive as attacking the sale of carbonated water on
the basis that carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide are members of the same family."
Downloadable from:
http://www.ifraorg.org/News.asp?Sel=10
" [A]t current levels" -- That has long been one of the contentions of industry. No one seems
capable of answering my questions: Why -- if fragrances are deemed safe, with their
combinations of tens to hundreds of mainly petrochemical derivatives -- Why is it that no one can
account for the soaring rates of reproductive problems, of asthma, of cancer, etc.? The chemical/ medical industry falls behind that one-word, non-explanation explaination: UNEXPLAINED.
Of course, the experts -- industry, government, medical -- also fail to look at the effects of
combinations of chemicals in any one product; the effects of these unsubstantiated for safety
chemical products upon us at cellular level; and they ignore the plethora of perfumed products
applied to any one body, which then escape to pollute the ambient air for all, regardless of the
health status of others. Industry reassurances without proof are not good enough for me. I hail
from the Show Me! state. -- barb
- iThyroid's info on Phthalates
http://www.ithyroid.com/phthalates.htm
- Pediatricians call for more action on phthalates
By Keith Mulvihill; Reuters Health; 4 June 2003
http://www.ourstolenfuture.org/Commentary/News/2003/2003-0604-RH-pedphthalates.htm
- Phthalates in indoor-PVC causes Allergy
Chemical Awareness;Free monthly NGO Newsletter on European Chemicals Policy
Issue # 12, December 1st 2000
By Christian Ege, The Danish Ecological Council
"On 10th November, Gunnar Damgaard Nielsen of the Danish National Institute of
Occupational Health released the results of a study on phthalates from PVC construction
materials - flooring and wall lining. The results will be published later.
"There is an evaporation of phthalates in the buildings, and the phthalates can be measured
in dust. The study shows that such dust with phthalates can promote allergy in mice, and
the Institute concludes that this would most probably also be the case for humans.
The findings are supported by a recent Norwegian study, and the results are quite
interesting, considering the rapidly rising prevalence of asthma and allergy in the
population, especially in the affluent Western countries. Many have wondered what
could be the reasons, and phthalates from PVC building materials is one of the potential
answers. Several of these substances are also suspected endocrine disrupters. The
new results support the efforts to phase out phthalates. "
I wonder if they've considered the phthalates commonly added to fragrances to make the scent last??? -- barb
http://web.archive.org/web/20010127110500/http://www.fbr.dk/chemaware/newslet/issue12/fulltext.html#article4
- Phthalate Monoester Levels in the Urine of Young Children
Bulletin of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology 68:309‚314.
Brock, JW, SP Caudill, MJ Silva, LL Needham, and ED Hilborn. 2002
" ... The types of phthalates detected suggest that exposure is via consumer products such
as fragrance-containing soaps, shampoos and perfumes, as well as nail polish and
beauty products. The presence of MEHP indicates that another route of exposure was
via DEHP-containing toys. ..."
Folks, if the health of your future generations and the health of this planet, not to mention your
own health, is important to you, look for safer, fragrance-free products. The already chemically
injured successfully clean, cook, garden, live, without use of petrochemical-derived flavors and
fragrances or pesticides. YOU can too! Copy us, we've shown the way. -- barb
http://www.ourstolenfuture.org/NewScience/oncompounds/phthalates/2002-0401brocketal.htm
- PHTHALATE INFORMATION CENTER
http://www.phthalates.org/
- The Australian
"Infertility chemical in perfumes"
From The Sunday Times; 25nov02
" HIGH levels of a chemical blamed for causing infertility in men have been found in
some of the world's best-known perfumes and cosmetics.
Chanel No 5, Christian Dior's Poison, Eternity from Calvin Klein and Tresor by
Lancome were among 34 toiletries found by a Swedish study to contain di-ethylhexyl
phthalate or other phthalates. ..."
http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/printpage/0,5942,5553328,00.html
- CorpWatch
USA: Cosmetics Industry Approves Controversial Chemicals
By Cat Lazaroff; Environment News Service; November 20, 2002
http://www.corpwatch.org/news/PND.jsp?articleid=4931
EcoISP - Environmental News Service
http://ens-news.com
- OVER OBJECTIONS, REPORT CALLS PVC TOYS, MEDICAL SUPPLIES SAFE
"Toys and medical supplies made with polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and softened with
di-ethylhexyl phthalates (DEHP) are not harmful, according to the American Council
on Science and Health (ACSH). In a widely criticized report released Tuesday, the group
summarized a review of scientific literature and risk assessments, concluding that
while DEHP does leach out of the products, it does not pose a significant risk to children
or patients. The ACSH's 17-member panel was headed by former U.S. Surgeon
General C. Everett Koop. ..."
AmeriScan: June 24, 1999
Remember Dr. Koop and tobacco . . . WHAT happened? Once upon a time I was naive
enough to think he'd be interested in learning about the combinations of tens to hundreds of
inadequately tested chemicals used to make our modern scents. Such a fool was I! -- barb
http://ens-news.com/ens/jun1999/1999-06-24-09.asp
- Cosmetics Industry Approves Controversial Chemicals
By Cat Lazaroff; WASHINGTON, DC, November 20, 2002 (ENS)
http://ens-news.com/ens/nov2002/2002-11-20-06.asp
- Denmark to Control Phthalates in Older Kids' Toys
COPENHAGEN, Denmark, November 5, 2002
http://ens-news.com/ens/nov2002/2002-11-05-03.asp
- Denmark Plans Radical PVC, Phthalate, Curbs
COPENHAGEN, Denmark, June 18, 1999
http://ens-news.com/ens/jun1999/1999-06-18-03.asp
- Germany Plans Ban on Baby Toys Containing Phthalates
BONN, Germany, April 16, 1999
http://ens-news.com/ens/apr1999/1999-04-16-05.asp
- Opinion: Beware Carcinogens, Phthalates in Cosmetics
By Samuel S. Epstein, M.D.
http://ens-news.com/ens/jul2002/2002-07-15e.asp
- Tide Turns Against Chemical Softeners in Plastic Toys
WASHINGTON, DC, December 9, 1999
http://ens-news.com/ens/dec1999/1999-12-09-02.asp
- Wide Ban on Soft Plastic Toys Proposed in Europe
BRUSSELS, Belgium, July 10, 2000
http://ens-news.com/ens/jul2000/2000-07-10-03.asp
- Environmental Health Perspectives
Volume 107, Number S6; December 1999
Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products in the Environment:
Agents of Subtle Change?
By Christian G. Daughton and Thomas A. Ternes
http://ehp.niehs.nih.gov/members/1999/suppl-6/907-938daughton/daughton-full.html
- GIST Magazine, Wednesday, 11 Dec 2002
Snippets of news items, such as:
" Sperm Wail
"Next time you're perusing the cosmetics counter at Macy's or the
personal-care aisle of CVS, you might want to take a pass on the lip liner
and aftershave. According to new research conducted by scientists at the
Harvard School of Public Health, exposure to monoethyl phthalate, a
chemical commonly used in cosmetics and fragrances, may lead to DNA
damage in men's sperm. Other studies have linked chemicals in the
phthalates family to birth defects in animals, but this is one of the first
studies on the effects of phthalates in humans. The finding comes just
weeks after a controversial decision by the U.S. Cosmetic Ingredient
Review panel, an industry-backed watchdog, to allow the continued use
of three types of phthalates in personal-care products and perfumes,
with assertions that the chemical uses were safe. The new study,
published in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives, does not
indicate whether sperm damage from monoethyl phthalate could lead to
infertility or birth defects. "
http://www.gristmagazine.com/daily/daily121102.asp
- Harvard School of Public Health
- Russ Hauser, Associate Professor of Occupational Health
Department of Environmental Health
"... 3. Investigating the relationship between male reproductive health and phthalates.
Phthalates are multifunctional chemicals used to hold color and scent in consumer and
personal care products, and to soften a wide range of plastics, including medical products
made with polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Phthalates are also present in drinking water,
air and food. Evidence of widespread exposure of the U.S. population to phthalates comes
from two recent CDC reports using NHANES data. ..."
http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/faculty/RussHauser.html
- Health Effects of Dibutyl phthalate (DBP) - Effects in Laboratory Animals
Environmental Working Group
http://www.ewg.org/pub/home/reports/beautysecrets/presskit/healtheffects.html
- Health Care Without Harm
http://www.noharm.org/
- Dr. Mercola
http://mercola.com
- National Report on Human Exposure to Environmental Chemicals - Phthalates
CDC National Center for Environmental Health ; 21mar01
" This is one section of four including Metals, Tobacco Smoke,
Organophosphate Pesticides, and Phthalates "
http://www.mindfully.org/Plastic/Environmental-Chemicals-CDC-21mar01.htm
===
- CDC - Centers for Disease Control and PREVENTION)
http://www.cdc.gov/
- Phthalates
Mono-ethyl phthalate. People exposed to diethyl phthalate will excrete
mono-ethyl phthalate in their urine. The amount of mono-ethyl phthalate is an
indicator of how much contact with diethyl phthalate has occurred. Diethyl phthalate
is an industrial solvent used in many consumer products, particularly those containing
fragrances. Products that may contain diethyl phthalate include perfume, cologne,
bar soap, shampoo, and hand lotion. return to top [emphasis added. -- barb]
Mono-butyl phthalate. People exposed to dibutyl phthalate will excrete mono-
butyl phthalate in their urine. The amount of mono-butyl phthalate is an indicator of
how much contact with dibutyl phthalate has occurred. Dibutyl phthalate is an industrial
solvent used in many consumer products. Products that may contain dibutyl
phthalate include nail polishes, cosmetics, and insecticides. [emphasis added. -- barb]
Mono-benzyl phthalate. People exposed to benzylbutyl phthalate will excrete
mono-benzyl phthalate in their urine. The amount of mono-benzyl phthalate is an
indicator of how much contact with benzylbutyl phthalate has occurred. Benzylbutyl
phthalate is an industrial solvent used in many consumer products such as adhesives,
sealants, cosmetics, and car-care products. [emphasis added. -- barb]
http://www.cdc.gov/nceh/dls/report/Chemicals/phthalatesgeneral.htm
National Report on Human Exposure to Environmental Chemicals
http://www.cdc.gov/nceh/dls/report/
- CERHR - Center for the Evaluation of Risks to Human Reproduction of NIEHS
http://cerhr.niehs.nih.gov/
- Chemical Awareness
¾How can I identify phthalate containing products?¾
Editor's Corner; Issue 4
http://www.chemical-awareness.com/news.php?nid=10
- Coming Clean
http://www.comeclean.org
- Chemical linked to sperm damage
Phthalates may harm human DNA, researchers say
"Dec. 9 [2002] ã Everyday exposure to a chemical ingredient used
to preserve many cosmetics and soften plastics like those
used in baby toys may contribute to sperm damage in adult
men, according to a study published Monday.
http://www.nottoopretty.org/pa_12_09_02.htm
For more info, see NotTooPretty.org. -- barb
- Dear Paula, The Cosmetic Cop
Query regarding phthalates in nail polish. -- barb
http://www.cosmeticscop.com/dearpaula/spring01.htm
- Ecology Center
http://www.ecologycenter.org/
- EHN's Citizens' Petition before the FDA -- Fragrance Analysis
May 2003 - the petition is still open and accepting comments. Please write to the
FDA about your adverse reactions to fragrances. Phthalates make the scents last, but
as they bioaccumulate, they too last. Last in your body, your child's body, downstream.
Reference "Docket Number 99P-1340/CP 1" and E-mail to: fdadockets@oc.fda.gov
http://www.ehnca.org/FDApetition/analysis.htm
When word came out about phthalates in plastic toys and bottles and seen as the link to children
adversely affected by these hormone disrupters, Betty Bridges, RN and I wrote . . . and wrote
. . . a n d w r o t e! We wanted to make sure that the organizations and individuals who
were concerned about phthalates being a major part of plastics (used to soften) were also
aware that phthalates were also a very commonly used fragrance ingredient (to make them last).
Whether our letters had any bearing on the L@@K into fragrances or not, we don't know. But
even if the petition is never paid attention to by the US FDA, it at least let us know to look at the
harmful effects of phthalates. Two other easily overlooked but commonly used fragrance
ingredients are the musks and coumarin. You can check out what I've found on both for the info
is available as links through EHN's site. However, please keep in mind, information on EHN's
site may be called extensive, but it certainly is not exhaustive. Continue your research by
visiting Betty's site, the renowned Fragrance Products Information Network
www.fpinva.org. -- barb
- Environews by Topic: Table of Contents
http://ehp.niehs.nih.gov/topic/index.html
- Environmental Estrogens and Other Hormones by
Environmental Concepts Made Easy (ECME)
http://www.tmc.tulane.edu/ecme/EEHome/default.html
- Environmental Health Perspectives
Betty Bridges, RN, and I found phthalates in fragrances back in 1998, when preparing EHN's
FDA petition 99P-1340. Others were thinking only of phthalates in plastics at the time. -- barb
- The Association between Asthma and Allergic Symptoms in Children and
Phthalates in House Dust: A Nested Case-Control Study
http://www.ehponline.org/docs/2004/7187/abstract.html?section=children
- A Variety of Environmentally Persistent Chemicals,
Including Some Phthalate Plasticizers, Are Weakly Estrogenic
http://ehpnet1.niehs.nih.gov/docs/1995/103-6/jobling.html
- Decrease in Anogenital Distance Among Male Infants with
Prenatal Phthalate Exposure
Environmental Health Perspectives 113: 1056-106; Number 8, August 2005
"... Diesters of phthalic acid, commonly referred to as phthalates, are widely used in
industry and commerce; they are used in personal care products (e.g., makeup,
shampoo, and soaps), plastics, paints, and some pesticide formulations. ..."
Why is it so many people studying PHTHALATES fail to look at the phthalates that are part and
parcel of petrochemially derived fragrances, regardless of product type in which it is used?
L@@K FOR PRODUCTS -- PERSONAL CARE AND THOSE USED FOR CLEANING AND
MAINTENANCE PROJECTS -- WITHOUT PETROCHEMIAL-DERIVED FRAGRANCES!
YOU MAY FIND AN "UNEXPLAINED" DROP IN THOSE PESKY CASES OF
"UNEXPLAINED" ASTHMA, RHINITIS, BRONCHITIS, MIGRAINES, MUSCLE PAINS
AND JOINT ACHES, SWOLLEN LYMPH NODES, etc. IT's WORTH A TRY! ONCE YOU
START LIVING WITH THE EFFECTS OF PERFUME POISONING, YOU WILL LOOK FOR
PRODUCTS FREE OF MODERN, SYNTHETICALLY DERIVED FRAGRANCES.
NO DOUBT ABOUT THAT. -- barb
http://ehp.niehs.nih.gov/members/2005/8100/8100.html
- The Estrogenic Activity of Phthalate Esters In Vitro
Environmental Health Perspectives Volume 105, Number 8, August 1997
http://ehpnet1.niehs.nih.gov/docs/1997/105-8/harris.html
- The Hazards of Environmental Estrogens
By Michele L. Trankina on The World & I Online
"Derived from numerous synthetic and natural sources, substances that
interfere with normal estrogenic activity in the body have been linked
to various reproductive abnormalities and cancers."
http://www.worldandi.com/public/2001/October/ee.html
- Identification of Phthalate Esters in the Serum of Young Puerto Rican Girls
with Premature Breast Development
Environmental Health Perspectives Volume 108, Number 9, September 2000
http://ehpnet1.niehs.nih.gov/docs/2000/108p895-900colon/abstract.html
- Levels of Seven Urinary Phthalate Metabolites in a Human Reference Population
Environmental Health Perspectives Volume 108, Number 10, October 2000
Please note: Phthalic acid, diethyl ester; 10.5 percent of fragrance portion of formula;
CAS # 84-66-2 -- found in analyses of fragrances for FDA Petition
http://ehpnet1.niehs.nih.gov/docs/2000/108p972-982blount/blount-full.html
- Prenatal phthalate exposure and anogenital distance in male infants.
http://www.ehponline.org/docs/2005/8100/abstract.html
- The Relationship Between Environmental Exposures to Phthalates and
DNA Damage in Human Sperm Using the Neutral Comet Assay
Susan M. Duty, Narendra P. Singh, Manori J. Silva, Dana B. Barr, John W. Brock,
Louise Ryan, Robert F. Herrick, David C. Christiani, and Russ Hauser
http://ehpnet1.niehs.nih.gov/docs/2003/5756/abstract.html
- Environmental Working Group (EWG)
http://www.ewg.org
- FDA: Phthalates and Cosmetic Products; April 19, 2001
"...FDA believes that at the present time there is no reason for consumers to be alarmed
at the use of cosmetics containing phthalates. However, the agency is in the process
of evaluating the study data to determine whether the levels described in the CDC report
are a health concern. ..."
http://vm.cfsan.fda.gov/~dms/cos-phth.html
- Germany Plans Ban on Baby Toys Containing Phthalates
http://ens.lycos.com/ens/apr99/1999L-04-16-05.html
- Health Care Without Harm
Their search will turn up a list of PDF files for you to download. -- barb
http://www.noharm.org/
The Indianapolis Star - Saturday, August 26, 2000
CDC eyes chemicals' level in humans
Amounts of phthalates, oft-used substances linked to birth defects, are
higher than expected.
By Daniel P. Jones - The Hartford Courant
http://www.hghoralspray.com/harmful_ingredients/CDC_toxins.htm
LA Times
STUDY FINDS GENITAL ABNORMALITIES IN BOYS
"Widely used industrial compounds, called phthalates, are linked by researchers to
changes in the reproductive organs of male infants."
By Marla Cone; Los Angeles Times, May 27, 2005
"... In the first study of humans exposed in the womb to phthalates, the researchers, who
examined the genitalia of male babies and toddlers, found a strong relationship
between the chemicals and subtle changes in the size and anatomy of the children's
genitals. Phthalates are ubiquitous compounds used as softeners in plastics and to
maintain color and fragrance in beauty products such as nail polish and
perfume, among other uses. ..."
(Emphasis added; for after all, what have Betty Bridges and I learned and tried telling the
world about when EHN filed the citizens' petition 99P-1340 with the US FDA???? -- barb)
http://www.gsenet.org/library/11gsn/2005/gs050530.4.html
- Mindfully.org
http://www.mindfully.org/
- MSNBC
- Concerns over chemicals in cosmetics
Are åplasticizing¼ substances causing health woes?
By Francesca Lyman; October 4, 2000
http://www.msnbc.com/news/472235.asp
http://web.archive.org/web/20010609221623/www.msnbc.com/news/472235.asp?cp1=1
Note, I found this mirrored at . . .
http://www.california.com/~hawk/ToxinsMCS.htm
Our Stolen Future
Includes many important links you should visit IF you are as concerned about Phthalates, as I
feel you have a right -- and an obligation -- to be for the health of your children and self ! -- barb
http://www.ourstolenfuture.org/NewScience/oncompounds/phthalates/2005/2005-0527swanetal.htm
The following article is about fragrances, and includes information about phthalates
To see the duplicity of the fragrance industry in action, read,
"Scents and sensitivities ...," in which you will see the industry
assuring us on the one hand that their products are "thoroughly
tested before being marketed" and on the other, the same industry rep
states they have "begun the first study to examine fragrance inhalation."
- Scents and sensitivities
What to know before buying a Valentine¼s Day perfume
By Francesca Lyman; Feb. 6, 2002; MSNBC CONTRIBUTOR
Notice, the industry says it tests its products . . . and then states it has BEGUN testing.
Can't have it both ways, me thinks! -- barb
Mirrored by EHN through kind permission of Ms. Francesca Lyman and MSNBC
http://users.lmi.net/~wilworks/FDApetition/flscents.htm
Formerly at http://www.msnbc.com/news/702445.asp
And, of course, do study the FDA Petition, in which EHN requests
that the FDA follow its regulations already on its books to require
warning labels on fragrances released to market without adequate
testing . . . and then write to the FDA! They will have to be overwhelmed
by letters from the public before they seriously consider following their
mission. Notice #2 "cosmetics are safe and properly labeled," and
#4 "As determined to be appropriate by the Secretary, carry out
paragraphs (1) through (3) in consultation with experts in science,
medicine, and public health, and in cooperation with consumers,
users, manufacturers, importers, packers, distributors and retailers
of regulated products." -- barb
- FDA's Mission
http://www.fda.gov/opacom/morechoices/mission.html
- NotTooPretty.org
Folks you've heard it first from FPIN and EHN through the FDA Petition, Docket Number
99P - 1340. Now you hear it from Coming Clean, Environmental Working Group and Health Care
Without Harm: Fragrances contain phthalates. . . and a whole lot more worrisome chemicals.
Be sure to check this site for updates on how phthalates affect men's fertility. -- barb
http://www.NotTooPretty.org
- Our Stolen Future
- Phthalates
Brought to you by
"iThyroid--the Internet center for the investigation of the nutritional
correction of Thyroid Disease."
http://www.ithyroid.com/phthalates.htm
Phthalates Linked to Sperm Damage
LAURA MacINNIS / Reuters 10dec02
http://www.mindfully.org/Plastic/Plasticizers/Phthalates-Sperm-Damage10dec02.htm
- Pioneer Planet
Study finds body absorbs common, risky chemicals
"Phthalates from makeup, solvents highest in women"
http://www.pioneerplanet.com/docs/0905chem2.htm
- Rachel's
#708 - Here We Go Again, September 14, 2000
" Phthalates: Here We Go Again"
http://www.rachel.org/bulletin/index.cfm?St=1
- San Francisco Chronicle
Cal-EPA to pass rule on chemical used in plastics
Agent found in hospitals, toys, may cause birth defects
by Jane Kay, Chronicle Environment Writer; Oct. 21, 2003
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?file=/chronicle/archive/2003/10/21/MNGCE2FSE81.DTL
printer friendly
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?file=/chronicle/archive/2003/10/21/MNGCE2FSE81.DTL&type=printable
- The Science and Environmental Health Network
- Article II. Phthalates: Asking The Right Questions
By Nancy Myers
"[Dr. Ted] Schettler's informed guess is that the gravest new concern may be about
phthalates used in cosmetics, personal care products, and fragrances."
http://www.sehn.org/Volume_5-4_2.html
- Beyond Democratization Of Risk Assessment: An Alternative To Risk Assessment
By Mary H. O'Brien
I must admit I've at least two red flags that outdo any that any bull has ever charged . . .
"'Sound' science" and "Risk Assessment." barb sez, This is a MUST read!
http://www.sehn.org/conbiorisk.html
- ScienceNewsOnline
http://www.sciencenews.org/
- Seattle Times
- Studies Link Class of Chemicals to Certain Medical Risks
Feb 10, 2004 3:54PM Knight-Ridder / Tribune Business News ‚
" A group of common chemicals found in indoor air, some perfumes and plastic tubing
used in hospitals may be more prevalent and dangerous than previously thought -- with
pregnant women and infants especially at risk, new studies say.
"New research on the substances, called phthalates (pronounced THAL-aytes), finds that
at least one type can disrupt the human hormone system -- putting pregnant women
at risk for delivering premature babies, damaging sperm in some men, and harming
reproductive systems of children.
"Recent studies also refute the notion that humans are only exposed to phthalates orally;
the studies have established that indoor exposure to the chemical is more widespread
than previously thought and that modest levels of some phthalates can be harmful. ..."
Actually, phthalates are commonly found in perfumes and fragrances because they
help make that scent last on the ambient air. Consider for a moment, all those fragrance
products you use and are subjected to from those used by others. -- barb
http://www.leas.ca/News/phthalates.htm
- Time Magazine
"Teens Before Their Time: With budding breasts and pubic hair, girls are developing
earlier than ever. What's causing it? And what are the psychological effects?"
By Michael D. Lemonick; OCTOBER 30, 2000; Vol. 156, No. 18 [in 4 parts]
http://www.time.com/time/magazine/articles/0,3266,58388,00.html
- washingtonpost.com
Beauty Coverup?
A Cosmetic Ingredient Is Linked to Animal Defects. Its Human Risks Are Less Clear
By Brian Reid, Special to The Washington Post
Tuesday, November 26, 2002; Page F1
"Phthalates, chemical substances that make plastic more flexible without reducing its
strength, are an all-but-inescapable part of life in the 21st century. They're used in toys,
garden hoses, shower curtains and medical devices. They're also common
ingredients in beauty products, making nail polish chip-resistant and making
hair spray keep a bouffant in line. ..."
AND, phthalates make the odor of synthetic fragrance chemical concoctions last longer. -- barb
http://www.washingtonpost.com/ac2/wp-dyn/A36254-2002Nov25
Printer friendly
http://www.washingtonpost.com/ac2/wp-dyn/A36254-2002Nov25?language=printer
-- end phthalates section --
Return to FDA Petition
Physicains
Also, see Doctors
http://users.lmi.net/~wilworks/ehnlinx/d.htm#Doctors
Physicains for Social Responsibility (PSR)
http://www.psr.org
Pierce's disease
YOU have until May 17, 2002 to get your comments in on the DEIR
regarding urban and rural pesticide spraying for the GWSS, which can be
controlled by safer means.
See EHN's Act Now!, Glassy-winged Sharpshooter and "Pest" Mgt & Pesticide Info
- Dr. David Pimentel
http://www.entomology.cornell.edu/Faculty_Staff/Pimentel/pimentel.html
Pine Sol®
Pine Sol® - FAQs
http://www.pinesol.com/faq_section.html
- Pine Sol -Cornell MSDS
"The information in this document is compiled from information maintained by the
United States Department of Defense (DOD). Anyone using this information is solely
reponsible for the accuracy and applicability of this information to a particular use or
situation. Cornell University does not in any way warrant or imply the applicability,
viability or use of this information to any person or for use in any situation. ..."
- PROFESSIONAL STRENGTH PINE-SOL® BRAND CLEANER
http://msds.pdc.cornell.edu/msds/msdsdod/a299/m149276.htm
- PINE-SOL® CLEANER
Notice the "NO" under 'Inhalation." This stuff is made and advertised to be smelled, yet there's
no information about effects caused through inhalation at primary level of use. Not a thought
in the world is given to effects due to inhalation at secondary and tertiary levels of exposure. -- barb
Health Hazards Acute & Chronic:
MAY CAUSE STRONG EYE IRRITATION WHICH IS REVERSIBLE.
Signs & Symptoms of Overexposure:
EYE IRRITATION
Medical Conditions Aggravated by Exposure:
NONE SPECIFIED BY MANUFACTURER.
LD50 LC50 Mixture: ORAL LD50 (RATS) > 5.0 G/KG
Route of Entry Indicators:
Inhalation: NO
Skin: YES
Ingestion: NO
Carcenogenicity Indicators
NTP: NO
IARC: NO
OSHA: NO
Carcinogenicity Explanation: THIS COMPOUND CONTAINS NO INGREDIENTS AT
CONCENTRATIONS OF 0.1% OR GREATER THAT ARE CARCINOGENS OR SUSPECT
CARCINOGENS.
Now, notice "INHALATION" under First Aid Measures . . . -- barb
Section 4 - First Aid Measures
PINE-SOL CLEANER
First Aid:
EYES: FLUSH WITH WATER FOR 15 MINUTES WHILE HOLDING EYELIDS OPEN. GET
MEDICAL ATTENTION. SKIN: REMOVE CONTAMINATED CLOTHING. WASH
WITH SOAP AND WATER. IF IRRITATION PERSISTS, GET MEDICAL ATTENTION.
INHALATION: REMOVE TO FRESH AIR. RESTORE BREATHING. GET MEDICAL
ATTENTION. INGESTION: DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING. GET MEDICAL
ATTENTION.DRINK PROMPTY A LARGE QUANTITY OF MILK OR WATER.
http://msds.pdc.cornell.edu/msds/msdsdod/a103/m51450.htm
- Pine Sol® by Clorox - MSDS
Now, folks, Pine Sol® is inhaled, yet on the MSDS under Health Hazard Data they give us:
Route Of Entry - Inhalation: NO
Route Of Entry - Skin: NO
Route Of Entry - Ingestion: YES
"...Health Haz Acute And Chronic: EYE IRRITANT. POSSIBLE ASPIRATION HAZARD IF
SWALLOWED. REPEATED/PROLONGED SKIN CONTACT MAY CAUSE IRRITATION.
...
"Signs/Symptoms Of Overexp: IRRITATION
Emergency/First Aid Proc: EYES: FLUSH IMMEDIATELY W/WATER FOR 15 MINUTES.
INGESTION: DON'T INDUCE VOMITING. DRINK A GLASSFUL OF WATER. SKIN:
WASH W/WATER. INHALATION: REMOVE TO FRESH AIR. OBTAIN MEDICAL
ATTENTION IN ALL CASES.
http://www.herc.org/library/msds/pine-sol.htm
... these "NOs" don't mean there are no adverse effects upon inhalation, it means they
supposedly don't know, haven't tested . . . -- barb
PIRG (Public Interest Research Groups)
Pink Disease Support Group (aka: ACRODYNIA, Erythoedema, or FEER's disease or SWIFT's disease. or... Hg mercury poisoning in infants)
http://www.powerup.com.au/~nmanser/index.htm
- Plagiarism: What It is and How to Recognize and Avoid It
http://www.indiana.edu/~wts/wts/plagiarism.html
Plain Language (instead of "governmentese" intro from EPA's site)
http://www.epa.gov/ooaujeag/new597/Plain.htm
It seems the change in administration meant a change in various EPA pages, too.
I was able to retrive this page through the Wayback Machine at http://www.archive.org
http://web.archive.org/web/20011121005017/http://www.epa.gov/ooaujeag/new597/Plain.htm
Planet Drum Foundation
http://www.planetdrum.org
Planet Mobility
http://www.planetmobility.com
PlanetArk
Plantar Wart
http://www.runnersworld.com/injuries/warts.html
Plants
Clear the air with plants
- Clean Air Plants & Sick Building Syndrome
http://www.oxford.net/~steve/sick.htm
- Hydroculture: The Cure For "Sick Building Syndrome"
http://www.viasub.net/IUWF/tap.html
- Chemical warfare at work - New Scientist
http://www.newscientist.com/ns/970621/features.html
- Do trees fight air pollution?
"Yes! Air pollution interacts in many ways with all living things. Since trees are the
dominant life form in size and number over most of the earth's surface, they carry
on a large part in the fight against air pollution.
http://www.aacog.com/naturalresources/nr2/wwwroot2/treesfightpollution.htm
- Everyday Exposure to Toxic Pollutants
by Wayne R. Ott and John W. Roberts; Scientific American
Eliminate synthetic fragrances, fertilizers and pesticides . . . there are safer ways!
And be sure to grow plants in and around your house. -- barb
http://www.sciam.com/1998/0298issue/0298ott.html#authors
- Greens eat soup
New Scientist
"WHEN people refer to chemical treatment plants, they tend not to mean the
potted, green variety. But after 20 years of research, retired NASA scientist
Bill Wolverton has shown that at least 50 different house plants gobble up
harmful VOCs from the office soup. ... "
http://www.newscientist.com/ns/970621/features2.html">http://www.newscientist.com/ns/970621/features2.html">http://www.newscientist.com/ns/970621/features2.html
- NASA Study shows common plants help reduce indoor air pollution....
Tropical Plants
http://www.zone10.com/wsdocs/tech/NASA/fyh.htm
- NonToxic Plants
A good list to check when deciding what to plant around your home. -- barb
http://www.ohsu.edu/poison/good.htm
- Plant incorporated protectants (PIPs)
- PLANT-INCORPORATED PROTECTANT RULES AFFIRMED BY ADMINISTRATION;
COMMENTS INVITED ON SUPPLEMENTAL NOTICE AND REPORT
FOR RELEASE: THURSDAY, JULY 19, 2001
David Deegan 202-564-7839 / deegan.dave@epa.gov
http://www.epa.gov/scipoly/pressrelease.htm
Poisonous Plants Database, FDA
http://vm.cfsan.fda.gov/~djw/readme.html
POISONOUS PLANTS HOME PAGE - Cornell University
http://www.ansci.cornell.edu/plants/
Plastic Bottles
Information provided by Ginger of http://www.pesticidefreezone.org/
- Breast Cancer and the Environment
http://www.igc.org/wri/health/slidhome.html
- Plastics and Breast Cancer
http://www.zerowasteamerica.org/Plastics&BreastCancer.htm
- The Hidden Life of Bottled Water
http://www.sierraclub.org/sierra/199905/water.htm
- Don't Reuse Your Plastic Bottle
http://www.channel2000.com/news/stories/news-971111-211014.html
- Hitting the Bottle
http://www.emagazine.com/september-october_1998/0998feat1_sb1.htmlÝÝÝ
- Additionally, Dr Andrew Weil, in his book Eight Weeks to Optimum Health, page 66,
"Bottled water is, at best, a temporary solution to the drinking-water problem. It is much
too expensive for regular use, and you cannot count on its safety." "To minimize
chemical contamination from containers, get water in glass or clear plastic jugs--not the
soft, translucent plastic ones, whose material leaches into the water"
Poetry
Poisons
American Heritage Dictionary: POISON - A substance that causes injury, illness, or death, especially by chemical means. -- barb
- Central Texas Poison Center - CTPC
The CTPC is a 24-hour poison emergency treatment and information resource for
health care professionals and the public in Central Texas.
http://swinfo.tamu.edu/poison/ctpc.htm
- FDA Citizens' Petition - analyses of six fragrances
http://users.lmi.net/~wilworks/FDApetition/bkgrinfo.htm#Analyses
From Aldrich
http://www.sigma-aldrich.com/saws.nsf/Home?OpenFrameset
In Eternity by Calvin Klein: "Phthalic acid, diethyl ester;
10.5 percent of fragrance portion of formula; CAS # 84-66-2"
Phthalic acid, diethyl ester is used in Flavors and Fragrances --
Aldrich: Product Number: W512206
Product Name: Diethyl phthalate, 99+%
Miscellaneous: This chemical is in the EPA inventory under TSCA.
Label Precautions: Harmful vapor
ÝÝÝÝÝÝÝÝÝÝÝÝÝÝÝÝÝÝ Avoid inhalation
Irritant
Lachrymator
Possible teratogen [ American Heritage Dictionary: "... causes malformation of an embryo or a fetus.]
ÝÝÝÝÝÝÝÝÝÝÝÝÝÝÝÝÝÝ
Labelit Poisons Foundation
June 1992: Polar Organic Compounds in Fragrances of Consumer Products (RTI/EPA)
http://stores.us.ohio-state.edu/~steen/allergy/fragrance_rti4948.html
March 1991: Identification of Polar Volatile Organic Compounds in Consumer Products
and Common Microenvironments
http://stores.us.ohio-state.edu/~steen/allergy/EPA_A312.html
Polioand Post Polio
Political Ecology Group
Pollinators
Folks, there's a decline in pollinators AND birds, which also are pollinators. Go organic!
Encourage organic farming by buying their products for your table. But going organic also
means your home garden -- flowers or food. Pesticides do not limit themselves to killing what you
may think of as "bad" bugs. And remember, birds feed on bugs, so if your pesticides kill off
the bugs, the birds cannot eat. Work with Mother Nature, not against her. -- barb
- Insects of Hawaii
http://biology.usgs.gov/s+t/frame/t068.htm
- The Pollination Home Page
http://pollinator.com/
- Quarter of U.S. Birds in Decline, Says Audubon
John Pickrell for National Geographic News;November 5, 2002
"A quarter of all bird species in the United States have declined in population since the
1970s, according to a report issued by the National Audubon Society. ..."
There we have it again . . . the 1970s. Bird population decline; for people, chronic
illnesses soar. -- barb
http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2002/11/1105_021105_BirdDecline.html
- Worldwatch Paper #165: Winged Messengers: The Decline of Birds - March 10, 2003
http://www.worldwatch.org/press/news/2003/03/10/
Regarding the paper, above, I received the following letter in answer to my excerpted query:
.
..I'll assume you are referring to birds being killed
outright by pesticides. But I wonder if there isn't also another
angle. What about pesticides effect on the food supply of the birds?
Birds eat bugs. If we are so frantically killing off bugs with our
array of pesticides, we are getting the good bugs, and the "bad"
bugs, hence we are depriving the birds of their food supply. And then
there's not just pesticides but GM products . . . I wonder if they,
too, play a role in the demise of our birds. ...
Mr. Youth was kind enough to grant permission to post his response here. -- barb
Ms. Wilkie,
Thanks so much for your thoughtful email. Your question is a good one. My
immediate answer would be that any land use that minimizes or destroys
birds' food sources and resting and nesting places can place birds at risk,
depending upon the species.
Pesticides can both directly harm birds (killing or weakening them or their
young) and deprive them of important food and shelter (I'm speaking here
both of insecticides and herbicides). These effects play out with
particular strength on grassland species that have adapted to agricultural
landscapes. Usually in such cases (larks, certain sparrows, meadowlarks,
bustards, sandgrouse...), birds have been able to find food and breed in
farm fields or pastures that have replaced once-widespread, now rare
grasslands. Again, the effects and scenarios vary by species and region.
For example, great bustards--birds now gone from most of their range across
Eurasia--can nest in cereal fields, but find much of their food in alfalfa
fields or adjacent pastures thick with weeds. When cereals are replaced by
sunflowers, the birds lose out, while visiting finches may find a banquet
(depending upon the herbicides or pesticides in use). When herbicides cut
back on weeds and their seeds (important bustard food) and insecticides
kill beetles and other insects young bustards depend upon for protein,
bustard populations can dive even if the area appears ideal for them.
I've not come across hard data on adverse effects on birds relating to GM
crops. I would imagine that there will be such studies soon, if indeed some
aren't out there already. I will certainly keep my eyes out for such
information. In the meantime, I leave you with the general answer that land
use that encourages monoculture and not a patchwork of different habitats
often cuts back on bird diversity. Within a habitat, pesticide use cuts
down on birds' food supply and some chemicals kill large numbers of birds.
Much depends upon the chemicals used, the land use patterns and overall
landscape, and bird species native to the area and their adaptability.
Thanks very much. I hope this message is helpful.
Sincerely,
Howard Youth
Pollutants/Pollution
Use your browser's find command, as pollution is covered througout this page. -- b arb
Popcorn-- Flavorings (CHEMICALS)
- Fixed Obstructive Lung Disease in Workers at a Microwave Popcorn Factory --
Missouri, 2000--2002
http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm5116a2.htm
- Iowa popcorn plant worker diagnosed with lung disease
Four Missouri workers seek transplants; Wednesday, July 24, 2002
http://www.newstribune.com/stories/072402/sta_0724020938.asp
- Microwave popcorn chemicals under scrutiny
"Vapors may be linked to lung disease in factory workers"
Thursday, March 11, 2004 Posted: 9:13 AM EST (1413 GMT)
" (AP) -- The Environmental Protection Agency is studying the chemicals released
into the air when a bag of microwave popcorn is popped or opened. ..."
Let's have another EPA study of fragrance chemcials!!!! Look for the cause of skyrocketing
rates of various diseases including asthma and cancers. Why not thoroughly study
fragrances for their effects upon nonusers. It's already known that scents are air pollutants. -- barb
http://www.cnn.com/2004/HEALTH/03/11/popcorn.test.ap/index.html
- New England Journal of Medicine
Clinical Bronchiolitis Obliterans in Workers at a Microwave-Popcorn Plant
Kathleen Kreiss, M.D., Ahmed Gomaa, M.D., Sc.D., Greg Kullman, Ph.D., Kathleen Fedan, B.S.,
Eduardo J. Simoes, M.D., M.Sc., M.P.H., and Paul L. Enright, M.D. ; ABSTRACT
http://content.nejm.org/cgi/content/short/347/5/330
- Rare deadly lung disorder in workers at microwave popcorn factories
linked to artificial butter flavoring. (10/03/2001)
Earth Crash Earth Spirit
http://www.azcentral.com/news/articles/breaking/1003popcornills-ON.html
Population Data
Porphyria
As with all medical, legal, product, etc. information, EHN simply makes this info available.
It is incumbent upon you to do your own research and decide which path to travel along with
the assistance of your own experts. I wish you safe travel. -- barb
POSITIVE FUTURES NETWORK, THE
http://www.yesmagazine.org/Beta2pfnorg/pfndesc.html
Postal Info
A tip: Use regular mail to reach EHN. Do not use expensive, faster services.
When dealing with organizations, such as EHN, who have post office boxes, save yourself
the extra money by sending items by regular mail. Express mail and priority only work
if you know that the person receiving the item is expecting it and will go to the post
box daily. EHN collects mail roughly twice a month. When convenient -- or as health
allows -- once a week. Sending items to us by Express Mail -- or in any large package --
adds an extra burden. We have got to make sure we get to the post office during their
working hours, as the larger items cannot fit in our very tiny post box. Thank you! -- barb
++++++++++++++++++
Regarding scent strips . . .
Why doesn't the Post Office refuse to accept magazines with leaking scent strips or scented
paper? Certainly the health of their employees would improve -- how many postal workers lose
time due to headaches, rhinits, sinusitis, asthma, cold- and flu-like symptoms? And those of us
who are already chemically injured won't have to worry about being assaulted by scented mail
arriving at our house. Scents not only stink up magazines they are in, but all other mail! And
the scent lasts for years! Why? In part, because of phthalates. Phthalates?See Not Too Pretty.
So far, the already chemically injured, the harbingers, have been ignored as we have tried to claim
our right to be free of perfume-poisoned mail, magazines, newspapers and other advertising
tricks, including scented pages in books. While we are ignored, more people get sick. Seriously
sick.
Perfume pollution takes its toll on health, and it has also taken lives.
It is high time for advertisers that do not use scented advertising to stand up against harmful,
scented ads. Why? Because scented advertising means that ALL of the mail, or newspapers or
magazines must be removed from the household and cast aside without notice. It only takes one
polluting ad to make unsafe the entire contents of one's mailbox, the newspaper, or magazines --
even those one would hope to buy from a newstand. Safer advertising is ignored in the wake
of the harmful perfume pollution of a few ads.
Those of us who are made ill by the volatilizing chemicals from perfumed paper or scent strips
should WRITE. Use the following information tomake a formal complaint with the Postal Service,
or newspaper, magazines, department store advertising fillers. The law is unenforced, likely
even unknown, but that's because so few take the time to file a complaint or write a letter. -- barb
- USPS Complaint Form
http://usps.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/usps.cfg/php/enduser/ask.php?
- Inform your local PostMaster
- California Attorney General Bill Lockyer
http://www.caag.state.ca.us/consumers/mailform.htm
- CALIFORNIA CODES
HEALTH AND SAFETY CODE
SECTION 110390-110420 (Fragrance advertising agents)
[CALIFORNIA CODES; HEALTH AND SAFETY CODE;
SECTION 110390-110420; 110420.
Go to California Law
http://www.leginfo.ca.gov/calaw.html
Click on "Health and Safety Code" in the left hand column, key in the word
"fragrance" and click the search button. Scroll to the bottom of the page.
110420. (a) Any fragrance advertising insert contained in a
newspaper, magazine, mailing, or other periodically printed material
shall contain only microencapsulated oils. Glue tabs or binders
shall be used to prevent premature activation of the fragrance
advertising insert.
"Fragrance advertising insert" means a printed piece with
encapsulated fragrance applied to it that is activated by opening a
flap or removing an overlying ply of paper.
Paperstocks employed in the manufacture of fragrance advertising
inserts shall have a maximum porosity of 20 Sheffield units or 172
Gurley-Hill units.
(b) Any person who distributes fragrance advertising inserts in
violation of this section, is guilty of an infraction and shall, if
convicted, be subject to a fine of one hundred dollars ($100) for
each distribution. The fine shall apply to each mass mailing or
distribution, and to each mass publication of a magazine or newspaper
in violation of this section. The fine shall not apply, however, to
each individual letter, magazine, newspaper, or fragrance
advertising insert so distributed. Section 111825 is not applicable
to violations of this section.
(c) This section shall become operative on January 1, 1992.
- FEDERAL/POSTAL EMPLOYEES OUTREACH...
Assistance and Talk List on Workers' Compensation
OWCP-Disability Retirement-EEO-MSPB-Etc.
http://expage.com/owcp
Leaking scent strips . . . and the US Mail
Folks, YOU have got to let YOUR feelings be known. It doesn't do any good for the USPS to keep
hearing from me on this subject. USPS has got to hear from you, too. -- barb
Postal Regulations concerning scented mail
Julia Kendall was on this YEARS ago! Why was nothing ever done to protect
public health? Why are people nine years later still being subjected to assault by chemical
fragrances strips in mail? I've written the USPS time and again, suggesting they return all
odorovecting mail to the sender, with fines attached. I never hear a word back.
See Making Sense of Scents compiled by Julia Kendall --
the regulation is in Postal regulations, Domestic Mail Manual, 124.395 Fragrance
Advertising Samples (39 USC 3001 (g) April 1990) state that fragrance strips for
mailing "cannot be activated except by opening a glued flap or binder or by removing
an overlying ply of paper."
Pub. 52, Hazardous, Restricted, and Perishable Mail (Text)
Hazardous, Restricted, and Perishable Mail
Publication 52 July 1999
Transmittal Letter
A. Filing Instructions. This issue of Publication 52 replaces the April 1990 edition, which must be recycled.
B. Explanation. This publication is revised in accordance with current standards in Domestic Mail Manual (DMM) C020-C024. It is designed for use by postal employees in business mail entry, retail, and marketing who are involved in providing mailability information to postal customers regarding hazardous materials, restricted matter, and perishable matter.
C. Distribution. Order copies from the material distribution center (MDC) using PS Form 7380, MDC Supply Requisition.
D. Comments and Questions. Direct comments or questions concerning the content of Publication 52 to:
MANAGER
BUSINESS MAIL ACCEPTANCE
US POSTAL SERVICE
475 L'ENFANT PLZ SW RM 6801
WASHINGTON DC 20260-6808
E. Effective Date. This edition of Publication 52 is effective July 1999.
Anita J. Bizzotto
Vice President
Marketing Systems
492.22 Restricted or Improperly Prepared Items
Other types of unsolicited samples may be nonmailable for other reasons,
including the following:
a. The sample is an otherwise restricted item such as a toxic substance or poison subject to the hazardous materials requirements in Chapter 3 and DMM C023.
b. The sample is improperly prepared for mailing, such as an inadequately packaged razor blade or a household substance that does not comply with the child-resistant packaging required in DMM C024.13.0.
c. The sample is a pesticide subject to the restrictions in DMM C024.14.0 or a fragrance advertising sample subject to the restrictions in DMM C024.15.0. [ see below]
d. The sample is an odd-shaped item in a letter-size envelope that is prohibited under DMM C024.18.0.
493 Customer Objection to Unsolicited Matter
Customers who object to receiving unsolicited matter should be advised that the Postal Service must accept any lawfully mailable matter that is properly prepared for mailing and bears appropriate postage. [But, sez barb, LEAKING SCENT STRIPS are NOT "lawfully mailable matter that is properly prepared for mailing" -- that's a HUGE difference!]These customers may be directed to contact the mailer or manufacturer to have their names removed from the mailing list. Customers also may be advised they may refuse any piece of mail, either at the time it is offered for delivery or after it is delivered (if unopened), as provided in DMM D042 and POM 611. [But, sez barb, by that time ALL of our mail is contaminated.]
494 Rulings
In the category of promotional samples, rulings sometimes can be provided based on the trade name of an item. However, this is not always possible. A generic description, such as razor blade, cleaner, aerosol product, or drug, is insufficient information for determining mailability. To request a ruling on the mailability of restricted matter, furnish the information in 215.3 to the local postmaster.
If the matter for which the ruling is being requested has the physical characteristics of a toxic substance, flammable liquid, compressed gas, or other hazardous material, a ruling should be requested under the conditions in 215.2.
Now, what I'd like to know is, has the US Postal Service ever sent back a bunch of mail with
leaking scent strips? Their regulations, 39 USC 3001(g) following, show that they are to dispose of "nonmailable matter," but they do not. What if the Postal Service returned nonmailable matter to the publisher? If publishers had to pay through the nose on this one, I'll bet our mail would not be contaminated as frequently as it is! -- barb
|
Go to USPS or email them at: customer@email.usps.gov If you are
sick (quite literally!) and tired of receiving scented mail, tell them. Please. -- barb
Posters, Brochures and Flyers
If you know of others, please inform me. Thanks, barb wilworks@lmi.net
Also check out EHN's General Links, page B / Brochures
http://users.lmi.net/~wilworks/ehnlinx/b.htm#Brochures
Please visit EHN's section on Access if you need help in achieving "cleaner air" in your school,
workplace, healthcare facility, place of worship, on public transit, etc. -- barb
http://users.lmi.net/~wilworks/ehnhompg/takheart.htm#Access
- Allergy, Sensitivity & Environmental Health Association
About Fragrances: Did you know ää. Fragrances can make you ill
Leaflet written by Dorothy M. Bowes for ASEHA Qld Inc 2004
http://www.asehaqld.org.au/Leaflets/about_fragrances.htm
- American P.I.E. (Public Information on the Environment)
American PIE had had lawn signs available stating something like: This lawn is safe for butterflies and bare feet.
http://www.americanpie.org/
- Asthma posters by KIDS for Saving the Earth
- Breath of Fresh Air
http://www.ncchem.com/aware/bfad3.htm
- Buttons and a Poster to print out
Jacki and Gordon's site
http://www.ourlittleplace.com/buttons.html
- The Campaign Against Illegal Poisoning of Wildlife
Hey, folks, pesticides aren't good for wild or domestic life! Not for you, not for me. And,
pesticides certainly don't belong in our schools, our health facilities, or our workplaces, especially
when applied without any warning whatsoever. -- barb
http://www.pesticides.gov.uk/environment.asp?id=504
- Cleaner Air Symbols and text
2001 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE AND REFERENCED STANDARDS CODE,
CALIFORNIA CODE OF REGULATIONS, TITLE 24, PARTS 2 AND 12
http://users.lmi.net/~wilworks/ehnlinx/pclnair.htm
- ES - Environmental Sensitivities
Poster made available by:
Environmental Health Association of Ontario
http://www.noccawood.ca/cgi-scripts/csNewsPro/news_upload/Help_20Educate_20About_20MCS_2edb.ES%20Poster%20Landscape.pdf
- "HEALTHY CLEAN BUILDINGS"
by The Cleaning Pro, Stan Halpern
Tons of excellent information on this site. Browse carefully. I've built this link to give you info
in support of the brochures and posters in this section. -- barb
http://www.cleaningpro.com/page.cfm
- Cupid's Arrow or Poison Dart?
Note: copy to your computer and format so the press release is on the front and the FDA contact
info will print on the back. I print on light colored paper and distribute to such events as the
large SF viewinf of Trade Secrets, through local library, etc. -- barb
http://users.lmi.net/~wilworks/ehnlinx/cupidfly.htm
- Dalhousie University
HOW TO HANDLE 'SCENT-SENSITIVE SITUATIONS'
Guidelines for Students, Staff, Faculty
Based upon my own experiences in the workplace and at my healthcare facility, I believe
Dalhousie's Guidelines is an excellent example of Best Practices. Please read and see what you can
do to incorporate their information into your workplace situation. In my case, I was forbidden
by Human Resources to talk with anyone directly about their scent. That, of course, led to my
contacting HR . . . and you know the set up there as well as I do: I was in trouble for taking
too much of the HR's valuable time. The old, DAMNED if you do, DAMNED if you don't
routine. It is well past time for employers, be they government agencies, healthcare facilities, law
firms, schools, places of workship . . . to change their way of thinking: Start to think of
CLEANER AIR FOR EVERYONE! We all are stakeholders when it comes to breathing. -- barb
http://scentfree.dal.ca/guide.shtml
- Dept of Occupational Health & Safety, York University
- Healthy Hair, Healthy Body, Healthy Environment poster
"A guide for people who work with hair . . . because beauty is more than skin deep"
"... one study has shown that up to 20% of hair dressers leave the business due to
allergies or dermatitis! After all that time and training, what a waste!"
http://www.turi.org/community/hairshow.html
- Kids for Saving Earth
- MCS America's Want to put your family in jail? poster
The answer to that question is: "Use fragranced products." -- barb
http://mcs-america.org/jail.pdf
- Not This Spring - Join Actress Jane Seymour in the anti-pesticide campaign
Care For Kids NOW
http://www.friendsofjane.com/media/charity/bioganic.htm
- Care for Kids
"Care for Kids is asking parents to follow the 3E's of Pesticide Safety --
Educate, Evaluate and Eliminate."
http://www.careforkidsnow.com/
- Nova Scotia Nurses Union -- 'No scents is good sense'
- Parks Are For People, Not For Poisons!
- Perfumes and Asthma Don't Mix
Trifold brochure developed by barb, based on collaborative effort
led by Julius Anderson, MD,PhD
http://users.lmi.net/~wilworks/ehnlinx/donmix.htm
- Pesticide Free Zone
Home of the Lady Bug lawn and bumper stickers and tee shirts
http://www.pesticidefreezone.org/
- Skunk poster
http://www.yorku.ca/dohs/doc/Guidelines/ScentedProducts/skunk.htm
- The Sweetest Smell... Is Nothing At All (Available for purchase! $2 per copy)
The Lung Association, Newfoundland and Labrador
http://www.nf.lung.ca/sweetest_smell.html
- Texas Pesticide Information Network
http://www.texascenter.org/txpin/right.htm
- Toranto's series of water efficiency, lawn care and compost adverts...
http://www.city.toronto.on.ca/water/adverts.htm
- Twenty Most Common Chemicals . . . and Some of Their Effects
Feel free to use this graphic -- set printer to "landscape" and print
page 1 through page 1; it should work. (Design idea by barb wilkie, blessed by Julia Kendall.)
http://users.lmi.net/~wilworks/ehnhompg/kendallb.htm
- University of Waterloo -- "We Share The Air" posters
"Disclaimer: This information is intended for use by the University of Waterloo's campus
community. While the material contained may be reproduced by other individuals
and organizations the University of Waterloo does not warrant its application to other
campuses or workplaces. Comments are welcomed and may be directed to the Safety
Office."
http://www.safetyoffice.uwaterloo.ca/hse/hygiene/scent/scented_posters.htm
- "Wake up and smell the coffee"
http://www.yorku.ca/dohs/doc/Guidelines/ScentedProducts/coffee.htm
Power ...
- Asthma and power plants
- Air Wars
Activists Struggle to Link Proposed Power Plants to Asthma
by Sharon Lerner; the village VOICE - Week of March 21 - 27, 2001
http://www.villagevoice.com/issues/0112/lerner.shtml
- America's most wanted: Power plants urged to clean up their act
By John Roach; Friday, April 21, 2000; Environment News Service
http://www.enn.com/enn-news-archive/2000/04/04212000/power_12224.asp
- Coal Fired Power Plants Emitting Clouds of Toxics
Environment News Service
WASHINGTON, DC, August 15, 2000 (ENS) - Pollution from electrical generation
facilities is more dangerous than the utilities say, claims a U.S. environmental
group. Utilities have historically downplayed their emissions and claimed that
they have minimal or no impact on health or the environment.
http://ens.lycos.com/ens/aug2000/2000L-08-15-06.html
- Lethal Legacy - The Dirty Truth About The Nation¼s Most
Polluting Power Plants
By U.S. Public Interest Research Group Education Fund and The State PIRGs for
Clear the Air, the National Campaign Against Dirty Power; April 2000
http://www.pirg.org/reports/enviro/lethal/
- Power plants linked to asthma
USA Health Today; May 5, 2000
BOSTON - (AP) Air pollution from two coal-burning power plants can be linked
to more than 43,000 asthma attacks and an estimated 159 premature deaths each
year, according to a Harvard School of Public Health report.
http://www.usatoday.com/life/health/allergies/lhall011.htm
- U.S. Government Sues Power Plants to Clear Dirty Air
By Cat Lazaroff; Environment News Service
enforce the Clean Air Act against private companies, the federal government
filed suit today against seven electric utility companies in the Midwest and South. ..."
http://ens.lycos.com/ens/nov99/1999L-11-03-06.html
- Californians for Renewable Energy
http://www.calfree.com/index2.html
- Delta Energy Center (Calpine/Bechtel Pittsburg) Power Project
Energy Commission Docket Numbers: 98-AFC-3 and 98-SIT-5
California Energy Commission Power Plant Siting Case
http://www.energy.ca.gov/sitingcases/delta/documents/
- Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E)
http://www.pge.com/welcome.html
Precautionary Principle
Prednisone - commonly prescribed for severe asthma
Pregnancy & Frgrances
Your government does not warn you about the toxins with which our modern synthetic scents
are concocted. Your medical doctors likely don't know to warn you. Caveat Emptor! EHN's
site is here for you. Please use it to educate yourself. Why risk harm to your children and
yourself, for an industry who through its advertising is really telling you that without their
petrochemical products -- which also take a toll on our environment -- your clean body has a
stench that can't be tolerated, that you are ugly without using their products, that you'll
not be able to win your heart's delight, that you'll not climb the corporate ladder, ... do you
really believe fragrance and cosmetics ads? If not, then look for fragrance-free, eco-friendly products.
If you feel as we do, that the public should be alerted, please e-mail the FDA who still believes
fragrances are a low priority issue. Just reference "Docket Number 99P - 1340 and send
your message to the FDA at fdadockets@oc.fda.gov
In the meantime, you can certainly do something about fragrances. Don't buy them until
they are proven to be made safer. That is happening in Europe. What, we in the USA are not
as worth protecting as our sisters and brothers in Europe?
To be sure, the industry assures us that we are safe using their products. But they do not furnish
any proof that fragrances are safe for inhalation, upon absorption, for the brain and nervous
system, for systemic effects, won't adversely affect reproduction, for developing embryos and
fetuses, upon long-term exposure, for secondhand users whose astute doctors have stated the
impossible: Avoid fragrances!
That safety we've been assured of down through the years? Those tests? That FDA compliance?
Ever wonder about that? The focus of the fragrance testing has been for dermatological
(skin) effects of primary users. I kid you not. And, what's more, fragrances effects upon the
skin have ranked NUMBER ONE for skin irritation from cosmetics. Well, fragrances are also
known irritants and sensitizers to the respiratory system! Remember, breathing is a major life
activity . . . according to the ADA. -- barb
See EHN's sections on three chemicals commonly used in the manufacture of fragrances:
- Coumarin
Coumarin is an anticoagulant. Coumarin kills rats. Coumarin causes Fetal Coumarin Syndrome.
Coumarin enters the body quickly. Coumarin is a commonly used fragrance ingredient.
But, no one can tell me what effect Coumarin has on developing fetuses when the mother uses it
as part of her perfume and fragrnce product routine.
http://users.lmi.net/~wilworks/ehnlinx/c.htm#Coumarin
- FDA Petition
Asks FDA to at the very least require its warning message be affixed to labels of all fragrances
released to market without substantiation of safety. Includes analyses of fragrances and FDA
contact information.
http://users.lmi.net/wilworks/FDApetition/bkgrinfo.htm
- Musks
Found stored in breast tissue, then "downstream" in mother's milk. Also found in fish and
wildlife downstream as these chemicals do not "wash out" during wastetreatment.
http://users.lmi.net/~wilworks/ehnlinx/m.htm#Musk
- Phthalates
Hormone disrupters found to affect sperm. There is also concern over their effect upon
developing male fetuses
http://users.lmi.net/~wilworks/ehnlinx/p.htm#Phthalates
- Sperm
EHN's section of information links on studies
http://users.lmi.net/~wilworks/ehnlinx/s.htm#Sperm
And, while still thinking of phthalates, which are definitiely found in fragrances, not just plastics,
and which affect men, women and developing male fetuses, visit the site of the report
Not Too Pretty
http://www.nottoopretty.org
-- barb
- Tolu
ALERT to pregnant women . . . and new moms and dads
- Association of Birth Defect Children
http://www.birthdefects.org/
- E-News Special Alert
February 28, 2000
A reporter with a major national news magazine recently contacted
the ABDC. He is working on a story about neurobehavioral birth
defects that may be linked to toxic environmental exposures during
pregnancy. Neurobehavioral birth defects include learning
disabilities, attention problems, autism and PDD as well as
behavioral and emotional disorders during childhood.
If you have a child with a neurobehavioral birth defect that you
believe was linked to a toxic environmental exposure during your
pregnancy and you would be interested in being interviewed for this
story, send an e-mail to Betty Mekdeci
betty@birthdefects.org .
Please describe your child's problems and the type of
environmental exposures you had during your pregnancy.
This is a very important story that can raise awareness about the
link between toxics in our environment and the increasing number of
children being born today with neurobehavioral problems.
Thank you,
Betty Mekdeci
Executive Director
Assn. of Birth Defect Children
- Biosci Biotechnol Biochem 1999 Apr;63(4):743-8
Potentiation of GABAA receptors expressed in Xenopus oocytes by perfume and phytoncid.
Aoshima H, Hamamoto K
Department of Physics, Biology and Informatics, Faculty of Science, Yamaguchi University, Japan.
aoshima@po.cc.yamaguchi-u.ac.jp
"...these results suggest the possibility that the intake of perfume or phytoncid through
the lungs, the skin or the intestines modulates the neural transmission in the brain
through ionotropic GABAA receptors and changes the frame of the human mind, as
alcohol or tobacco does." (Thanks to Betty Bridges, RN for ferreting out this info! -- barb)
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/htbin-post/Entrez/query?uid=10361687&form=6&db=m&Dopt=b
- Beauty During Pregnancy and Beyond
M. K. Johnson, Blue Heron Mediaworks
http://www.kickbuttprod.com/Pages/Beauty%20During%20Pregnancy%20and%20Beyond%20.html
- Behavioural outcome of school-age children after prenatal exposure to coumarins.
Wesseling J, Van Driel D, Heymans HS, Van der Veer E, Sauer PJ, Touwen BC, Smrkovsky M
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=10936441&dopt=Abstract
- Chemical Food Additive Exposure During Pregnancy
Author: Richard W. Pressinger (M.Ed.)
Links to Learning Disabilities, ADD and Behavior Disorders
FeingoldÆ Association of the United States
http://www.feingold.org/links1.html
- ChemTox
http://chem-tox.com/
- Chronic Illness During Pregnancy - Asthma
InteliHealth - Harvard Medical School
http://www.intelihealth.com/IH/ihtIH/WSIHW000/3460/7024/31516.html?d=dmtJHE
- Coumarin ...a fragrance chemical, a rodentcide, an anticoagulant,
which can cause fetal coumarin syndrome. See EHN's
What I'm trying to learn is if fetal coumarin syndrome is found in cases where the
mother used perfumes but was not on Coumarin as an anticoagulant. I've yet to
receive a response to my various queries. Researchers, where are you? -- barb
http://users.lmi.net/~wilworks/ehnlinx/c.htm#Coumarin
- Dr. Mercola's, Do Environmental Chemicals Harm Humans?
"... exposure to chemicals may pose the greatest threat to pregnant women,
which then may affect the health of the fetus later in life. ..."
http://mercola.com/2004/mar/6/environmental_chemicals.htm
- EnviroHealthAction
Toxics and Health - Phthalates
http://www.envirohealthaction.org/toxics/phthalates/
- Environmental Working Group
Beauty Secrets - Phthalates
"Phthalates: regulated as toxic pollutants - but OK in consumer products "
http://www.ewg.org/pub/home/reports/beautysecrets/chap2.html
2004
- Pregnancy Concerns
"Therefore, based on demonstrated reproductive and developmental toxicity
associated with dermal and other exposures, these ingredients are considered
unsafe for use in cosmetic formulations.
ã Cosmetic industry safety panel's findings on ethoxyethanol acetate (CIR 2003),
an ingredient that continues to be used in Anna Sui nail color 105"
Information on phthalates, which are commonly used in fragrances to make the scent last. -- barb
http://www.ewg.org/reports/skindeep/report/pregnancy_concerns.php#phthalates
- Feingold® Association of the United States
"The dietary connection to better behavior, learning & health"
http://www.feingold.org/indexx.html
- Chemical Food Additive Exposure During Pregnancy
Author: Richard W. Pressinger (M.Ed.)
Links to Learning Disabilities, ADD and Behavior Disorders
FeingoldÆ Association of the United States
http://www.feingold.org/links1.html
- Perfume and Fragrance Exposure During Pregnancy
Fragrance Exposure Causes Aggression Hyperactivity and Nerve Damage
Richard W. Pressinger (M.Ed.)
Neurotoxicology, Volume 1:221-237, 1979
"One fragrance chemical used in perfumes, colognes, soaps, detergents and cosmetics
has been found to damage brain tissue in the laboratory animals tested. The compound,
called acetyl ethyl tetramethyl tetralin (AETT), was commonly used in the above
mentioned consumer products until scientists realized the chemical demonstrated serious
neurotoxic properties. In fact, the chemical was in widespread use as a
fragrance component in cosmetic, toiletry and soap products for a period of 22 years
before the problem was detected. The first laboratory evidence of a problem came after researchers
detected repeated percutaneous exposure to AETT in rats resulted in an extraordinary
blue discoloration of the skin and internal organs, followed by behavioral changes
and degeneration of the white matter in the brain. Upon realizing the potential harm
from this compound, the fragrance industry voluntarily discontinued its use. This
action was accepted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) early in 1978."
FeingoldÆ Association of the United States
http://www.feingold.org/links1.html
- Some Research on Fragrances - Last update 01/20/2002
This webpage contains not only links to valuable information, but helpful comments too. -- barb
http://www.feingold.org/research_fragrances.html
- Fetal Coumarin Syndrome
This report refers to use of coumarin as an anticoagulant. I want researchers to look at
coumarin in fragrances to see if it can cause some of these same abnormalties. -- barb
http://www.thefetus.net/sections/articles/Toxic_exposure/Fetal_coumarin_exposure_syndrome.html
- Good Scents Company Safety Page
http://www.thegoodscentscompany.com/
- The Hospital for Sick Children (HSC) and the University of Toronto
Researchers link exposure to organic solvents during pregnancy to an increased risk of
visual impairment in exposed children
http://www.sickkids.on.ca/releases/solventsinfo.asp
- "Natural fragrances `can put pregnant women at risk'"
HONGKONG STANDARD ( Hong Kong Standard ) Lilian Kwok; 04-18-2000
(Note: pay service. Excerpted:)
"THE Consumer Council has called for a warning to be carried on the
packaging of some fragrance products after they were found to
contain ingredients that are potentially harmful to pregnant women
and unborn children.
"The council also found that two of the products contained the
cancer-causing agent benzene, although the quantity found was within
accepted safety levels.
"The findings arise from a test of 66 products, across 18 brands,
that are extracted from flowers, leaves, fruit seeds or wood and
marketed for the enhancement of health through inhalation, baths,
massage and skin application. . . . "
http://www.elibrary.com/getdoc.cgi?id=164098190x127y56877w0&OIDS=0Q001D003&Form=RL&pubname=Hong_Kong_Standard&puburl=http~C~~S~~S~www.fdch.com&querydocid=1362237@library_q&dtype=0~0&dinst=0
- Not Too Pretty - Released July 10, 2002
by Health Care Without Harm, Coming Clean and Environmental Working Group
This is a must read! While reading, remember, they ONLY tested for phthalates. Fragrances
are made with between 3,000 and 5,000 inadequately tested chemicals. -- barb
http://www.nottoopretty.org
- Pollutants can reach babies in the womb
by Anita Manning; from Safe2Use
http://www.safe2use.com/ca-ipm/00-03-30c.htm
PREGNANCY AND ESSENTIAL OILS
"Most natural health practitioners consider that generally all concentrated
products including essential oils, are best avoided during the first few months
of pregnancy. ...
"The commonest problem occurring in early pregnancy which essential oils
may help is morning sickness. Peppermint oil is an excellent treatment for
this problem, and simply inhaling the oils vapours from a bowl of hot water
can relieve the nausea. "
Note from barb ... my trick was making a tea of ginger. Worked like a charm for me.
http://www.worldhostone.com/altbirth/html/pregnancy_and_essential_oils.html
- Pregnancy and the Crafts Professional
Hazards and effective precautions for staying safe while you're pregnant
by Monona Rossol
You don't have to be a crafts person to find good advice in this. -- barb
http://www.trueart.info/pregnancy.htm
- Pretty Nasty: Phthalates in European Cosmetic Products
http://www.wen.org.uk/health/prettynasty.htm
- Protecting the First Environment
by Sandra Steingraber, Ph.D.
http://www.checnet.org/healthehouse/education/articles-detail.asp?Main_ID=195
- Scents Are Not What They Seem
By Karen Robinson, B. Sc., B.Ed., B.F.A.; UPdate Fall 1997;NSAEHA
http://www.environmentalhealth.ca/fall97scents.html
- Scientific advances offer new findings for assessing
birth defects caused by toxic chemicals, says report
Scroll about 2/3 way down. -- barb
http://ace.orst.edu/info/extoxnet/newsletters/ucd2000/nltrjuly00.htm#Sci
- Workplace Solvents Can Harm a Fetus
"Subtle cognitive problems were found in the children of women exposed to the chemicals
while on the job, a new study contends.
Subtle cognitive problems found in children of women exposed to the chemicals
By Janice Billingsley; HealthDay Reporter
Folks, remember modern, petrochemical-derived fragrances contain solvents. The Environmental
Protection Agency found toluene in fragrances. Consider this: Fragrances on your body means
fragrance petrochemicals and alcohol in your body, and the petrochemical soup benignly
labeled "fragrance" can adversely affect the baby you are carrying.
http://www.drkoop.com/newsdetail/93/521589.html
-- end pregnancy and fragrances --
- Premarin
Frankly, I've refused all such drugs. Didn't need 'em. Couldn't understand why the
doctor was pushing them (I go to an HMO, so easily changed doctors). I've also refused
mammograms. If I ever need special testing, I'll consent to thermography. My body. My
decisions. Study the information available. Become informed. Discuss with your health
care practioner. Make YOUR decision. -- barb
- PrepareNow.org
Supporting special needs and vulnerable populations in disaster
"...Vulnerable people are those who cannot comfortably or safely access and use the
standard resources offered in disaster preparedness, relief and recovery. For example:
- a disabled person whose needs cannot be met in a shelter
- a non-English-speaker who does not understand the order to evacuate
- a frail elder who cannot lift or carry a disaster supply kit
- a recent immigrant who is reluctant to ask for help
http://www.preparenow.org/
- Library languages available --
English, Spanish, Japanese, Korean, Vietnamese, Tagalog, Portuguese
http://www.preparenow.org/prepare.html
English: These four Tip sheets should be used together.
There are more, please explore the Library via the link above. -- barb
- Press Releases
- Pretty Nasty: Phthalates in European Cosmetic Products
http://www.wen.org.uk/health/prettynasty.htm
Preventing Harm
http://www.preventingharm.org/
Pro Se lawsuit - ADA
Ragged Edge
"What is a Pro Se Complaint? This is, quite simply, a lawsuit that a person files
without a lawyer. The ADA Pro Se must be filed in Federal District Court., because
the ADA is a Federal law. ..."
http://www.raggededgemagazine.com/archive/pro-se.htm
Procurement
See Purchasing
Cleaner Air Starts With Environmentally Sound Procurement
Look for low-emitting-VOC, truly fragrance-free or unscented, less hazardous products.
The reason I qualify "fragrance-free" and "unscented" is that the US Food and Drug
Administration allows the industry to claim a product is unscented or fragrance-free,
which nonetheless contain synthetic fragrances, used to mask other objectionable odors.
We are admonished to read labels that don't mean anything but more confusion!
While you are thinking cleaner and greener, also think fragrance-free personal care products
to use and wear. To learn of some of the chemicals from which modern synthetic scents
are made, visit the FDA Citizens' Petition at http://www.ehnca.org/FDApetition/bkgrinfo.htm-- barb
Produce
See Organic Foods
http://users.lmi.net/~wilworks/ehnlinx/o.htm#Foods
Products
See EHN's links: Consumer Products
(http://users.lmi.net/~wilworks/ehnlinx/c.htm#Consumer)
- Product Recalls
http://www.fda.gov/opacom/7alerts.html
- The Progressive Way
The Progressive Way is an alliance of social action, community nonprofit organizations from throughout the greater San Francisco Bay Area working together to raise funds through annual workplace payroll deduction and fundraising campaigns.
Project Censored
Proposition 65
DEHP (a phthalate) on California's Prop. 65 list of carcinogens and reproductive toxins
http://www.oehha.ca.gov/prop65/CRNR_notices/list_changes/6Ddehpnot.html
-- end prop 65 --
Propylene glycol (PG)
Used in your food and personal care products, not just in your brake fluid and deicing products! -- barb
- ATSDR September 1997
ToxFAQsÅ for
Ethylene Glycol and Propylene Glycol
(Glicol de Etileno y Glicol de Propileno)
CAS#
Ethylene Glycol 107-21-1
Propylene Glycol 57-55-6
" This fact sheet answers the most frequently asked health questions about
ethylene glycol and propylene glycol. For more information, you may call the
ATSDR Information Center at 1-888-422-8737. This fact sheet is one in a series
of summaries about hazardous substances and their health effects. This
information is important because this substance may harm you. The effects of
exposure to any hazardous substance depend on the dose, the duration, how
you are exposed, personal traits and habits, and whether other chemicals are
present.
" HIGHLIGHTS: Ethylene glycol and propylene glycol are clear liquids used in
antifreeze and deicing solutions. Exposure to large amounts of ethylene glycol
can damage the kidneys, heart, and nervous system. Propylene glycol is
generally regarded as safe for use in food. Ethylene glycol has been found in at
least 34, and propylene glycol in at least 5, of the 1,416 National Priorities List
sites identified by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
"What are ethylene glycol and propylene glycol?
"Both ethylene glycol and propylene glycol are clear, colorless, slightly syrupy
liquids at room temperature. Either compound may exist in air in the vapor
form, although propylene glycol must be heated or briskly shaken to produce a
vapor. Ethylene glycol is odorless but has a sweet taste. Propylene glycol is
practically odorless and tasteless.
"Both compounds are used to make antifreeze and de-icing solutions for cars,
airplanes, and boats; to make polyester compounds; and as solvents in the paint
and plastics industries. Ethylene glycol is also an ingredient in photographic
developing solutions, hydraulic brake fluids and in inks used in stamp pads,
ballpoint pens, and print shops.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has classified propylene glycol as an
additive that is "generally recognized as safe" for use in food. It is used to absorb
extra water and maintain moisture in certain medicines, cosmetics, or food
products. It is a solvent for food colors and flavors.
Propylene glycol is also used to create artificial smoke or fog used in fire-fighting
training and in theatrical productions.
http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/tfacts96.html
- California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment
"Chemicals Listed Effective June 11, 2004
as Known to the State of California to Cause Cancer:
3,3'-dimethoxybenzidine-based dyes metabolized to 3,3'-dimethoxybenzidine,
3,3'-dimethylbenzidine-based dyes metabolized to 3,3'-dimethylbenzidine,
ethylbenzene, propylene glycol mono-t-butyl ether, and thiouracil
[06/11/04]
http://www.oehha.ca.gov/
- DOW's Products You Can Trust (Accessed 06/19/04)
"Propylene glycols are used in a wide variety of end-use applications,
from cosmetics and household detergents to paints and automotive brake fluids."
http://www.dow.com/propyleneglycol/index.htm
- EPA's IRIS (Integrated Risk Information System)
"... II. Carcinogenicity Assessment for Lifetime Exposure
Substance Name -- Propylene glycol
CASRN -- 57-55-6
"This substance/agent has not undergone a complete evaluation and determination
under US EPA's IRIS program for evidence of human carcinogenic potential.
Incomplete evaluations do not mean that a chemical is free from "human carcinogenic potential." -- barb
http://www.epa.gov/iris/subst/0543.htm
- GreenPeace - The Chemical Home
http://www.greenpeace.org.uk/Products/Toxics/index.cfm
- HEALTHY BUSINESS 2000
Are Your Personal and Skin Care Products Safe?
"... Plastics/Pesticides/Antibacterials. Petroleum by-products coat your skin with a
"plastic" layer, inhibiting its ability to breathe. Resulting in hormonal disruption,
immune system malfunction and premature aging. (Examples: mineral oil, PEGs,
propylene glycol, triclosan, butylene glycol, PVP, and acrylics). ..."
http://www.healthybiz2000.com/skin_care.htm
- Healthy Communications
PROPYLENE GLYCOL
MSDS Number: P6928 --- Effective Date: 02/25/99
J.T. Baker: 9402, 9403, U510
Mallinckrodt: 1925, 6263
http://www.healthy-communications.com/msdspropyleneglycolnewjersey.html
- NIH's Household Products Database
http://householdproducts.nlm.nih.gov/cgi-bin/household/brands?tbl=chem&id=1553
- Organic Natural Health and Beauty
Propylene Glycol
"Much has been made by promoters of safe non toxic personal care toiletries and
cosmetics of the dangers of known toxic chemicals such as Propylene Glycol and Ethylene
Glycol, a related chemical. Although exposure to high levels of Propylene Glycol is
known to cause serious and potentially irreversible health conditions, the chemical
industry tell us that "small" quantities or low level exposure of Propylene Glycol is
"safe" to use on the skin and in food. According to the safety data sheets of industrial
chemical manufacturers, chemicals such as Ethylene Glycol and Propylene Glycol will
cause serious health conditions, including liver and heart damage and damage to the
central nervous system if sufficient is absorbed by the body.
"YOU make your own mind up about putting a toxic chemical such as propylene glycol
on your skin every day or eating food with it in. (Cigarette manufacturers denied
any health risks associated with toxic chemicals contained in cigarette smoke for over
25 years! Could toxic chemicals we are exposed to on an everyday basis be the next
"tobacco scandal"?)
http://www.health-report.co.uk/ethylene_glycol_propylene_glycol.html
- Doris Rapp, MD
TOXIC PERSONAL CARE PRODUCTS YOU USE DAILY
" Another substance is called propylene glycol (PG). This is in shampoos, styling gels
, body lotions and creams. It is actually antifreeze. Propylene glycol (PG) weakens
skin cells. It¼s so toxic those who work with it must wear gloves and goggles. ..."
http://www.drrapp.com/alerts.html
- Tom's of Maine
Ingredient Fact Sheet: Propylene Glycol
If you want to feel better about applying and ingesting PG, read this. -- barb
http://www.tomsofmaine.com/toms/ifs/propylene_glycol.asp
- Protecting Our Health
http://www.protectingourhealth.org/
- Protection and Advocacy -The Nation's Disability Rights Network
- Olmstead vs L.C
"On June 22, 1999, the United States Supreme Court held in Olmstead vs. L.C. that the
unnecessary segregation of individuals with disabilities in institutions may constitute
discrimination based on disability. The court ruled that the Americans with Disabilities
Act may require states to provide community-based services rather than institutional
placements for individuals with disabilities. ..."
This page has a wealth of information. -- barb
http://www.protectionandadvocacy.com/lcolmste.html
- Prozac
Who was paid to approve Prozac. What is found in the Freedom of Information Act
that Lilly does not want you to know?
http://www.prozactruth.com/
Psychiatric Drugs
- Psychiatric Drug Facts
By Peter R. Breggin, M.D.
http://www.breggin.com/
- Contact Information and list of books, covering such topics as . . .
Prozac, Paxil, Luvox and other SSRIs: ÝFor information regarding
side effects of Prozac and other SSRI's including Zoloft, Paxil, Luvox, Celexa, Effexor, etc.,
as well as better approaches for depression see Dr. Breggin's book: The Antidepressant
Fact Book (2001). ÝAlso see Peter R. Breggin and Ginger Breggin's book: Talking Back to
Prozac (1994), and for updated information see Dr. Peter Breggin's medical text:Ý Brain
Disabling Treatments in Psychiatry (1997).
If you have questions or want information on tardive dyskinesia and other side effects
of the neuroleptics (so-called anti-psychotics) as well as other psychiatric drugs, see
Dr. Breggin'sÝ medical text: Brain Disabling Treatments in Psychiatry.
http://www.breggin.com/contact.html
- Brain Disabling Treatments in Psychiatry
http://www.breggin.com/brain-disablingch1.html
- The Benzodiazepines and other "Minor" Tranquilizers
Chapter on Benzodiazepines from Brain-Disabling Treatments in Psychiatry: Drugs,
Electroshock and the Role of the FDA
Excerpts from Toxic Psychiatry by Peter R. Breggin, M.D.
http://www.breggin.com/benzotoppg.html
- Joe McCarthy Lives!
He's whispering in the ear of Eli Lilly & Co., the manufacturer of Prozac
By Peter R. Breggin, M.D.; (published in The Rights Tenet: Autumn 1994)
http://www.breggin.com/Joemccarthylives.html
- German Translations of Dr. Breggin's papers
http://www.breggin.com/Germantrans.html
Psychotherapy
Public Affairs
C-span
"Your Online Resource for Public Affairs"
Public Integrity, Center for
(You need Java to get into this site.)
Public Concern Foundation, Inc.
Public Integrity, Center for
http://www.publicintegrity.org/
Publications
(also see newsletters and newspapers and online news and references)
- American Chemical Society
http://pubs.acs.org/
- Bay Nature
An exploration of Nature in the San Francisco Bay Area
http://www.baynature.com
- Danish Environment
http://www.mst.dk/depa/denv/contents/index.htm
- Disability Publications
- E -- The Environmental Magazine (E Magazine)
http://www.emagazine.com/
- Environmental Building News
http://www.buildinggreen.com
- Environmental Health Perspective
- A Variety of Environmentally Persistent Chemicals,
Including Some Phthalate Plasticizers, Are Weakly Estrogenic
http://ehpnet1.niehs.nih.gov/docs/1995/103-6/jobling.html
- The Estrogenic Activity of Phthalate Esters In Vitro
Environmental Health Perspectives Volume 105, Number 8, August 1997
http://ehpnet1.niehs.nih.gov/docs/1997/105-8/harris.html
- Fragrances and Health (Betty Bridges' letter)
http://ehpnet1.niehs.nih.gov/docs/1999/107-7/correspondence.html#frag
- Hormones and Health
http://ehpnet1.niehs.nih.gov/qa/105-5focus/focus.html
- Identification of Phthalate Esters in the Serum of Young Puerto Rican Girls with
Premature Breast Development
Environmental Health Perspectives Volume 108, Number 9, September 2000
http://ehpnet1.niehs.nih.gov/docs/2000/108p895-900colon/abstract.html
- Killer Environment
"It's the environment, stupid. At least, that seems to be the conclusion of a paper
published in the October 1998 issue of BioScience that asserts that approximately
40% of the world's deaths can be attributed to environmental factors."
Environmental Health Perspectives Volume 107, Number 2, February 1999
http://ehpnet1.niehs.nih.gov/docs/1999/107-2/forum.html#kill
- Levels of Seven Urinary Phthalate Metabolites in a Human Reference Population
Environmental Health Perspectives Volume 108, Number 10, October 2000
Please note: Phthalic acid, diethyl ester; 10.5 percent of fragrance portion of formula;
CAS # 84-66-2 -- found in analyses of fragrances for FDA Petition
http://ehpnet1.niehs.nih.gov/docs/2000/108p972-982blount/blount-full.html
- Neurogenic Inflammation and Sensitivity to Environmental Chemicals
Environmental Health Perspectives, Volume 101, Number 3, August 1993 (Abstract)
By William J. Meggs
Department of Emergency Medicine, East Carolina University School of Medicine, Greenville, NC 27858 USA
http://ehpnet1.niehs.nih.gov/docs/1993/101-3/meggs.html
- Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products in the Environment:
Agents of Subtle Change?
Environmental Health Perspectives Volume 107, Supplement 6, December 1999
http://ehpnet1.niehs.nih.gov/docs/1999/suppl-6/907-938daughton/abstract.html
- Scents and Sensitivity
December 12, November 1998; Volume 106,
http://members.aol.com/enviroknow/perfume/EHPscents.htm
ENN - Environmental News Network
- U.S. cosmetics panel allows use of disputed chemical
By Laura MacInnis, Reuters; Wednesday, November 20, 2002
"WASHINGTON ã Regulators from within the American cosmetics industry voted
Tuesday to allow the use of a chemical ingredient in perfumes and beauty products which
critics have linked to birth defects in animals.
"The Cosmetic Ingredient Review panel ruled that three phthalates, chemicals used to
make fragrances last longer, posed no health threat to cosmetics wearers. ..."
- Sweet smelling lawns leave bad taste in mouths of environmentalists
By Lucy Chubb; Thursday, August 24, 2000
"Environmentalists in Ontario, Canada smell a rat ã or perhaps more accurately, they
smell bubble gum and cherry.
"These are the two scent choices of Masker-Aid Odour Concentrate, a new additive
designed to mask the odors that accompany pesticides.
"Anti-pesticide activists in the province assert that the introduction of Masker-Aid is an
attempt to candy-coat a controversial issue and that use of the product could compromise
the safety of children.
"Julia Langer, a toxicology expert for World Wildlife Fund Canada, thinks it stinks. ..."
http://www.enn.com/enn-news-archive/2000/08/08242000/maskeraid_30855.asp
- Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Publications OnLine
http://www.epa.gov/epahome/publications2.htm
- Environmental Research Foundation
"News and resources for environmental justice."
(Home of Rachel's -- barb)
http://www.rachel.org/home_eng.htm
- Environmental Science & Technology
- Generations at Risk
California PSR and CALPIRG v Generations at Risk
http://labridge.com/psr/gar/default.html
- Grist Magazine
http://www.gristmagazine.com/
- About Grist Magazine
"Grist is an online environmental magazine. Our credo: Pull no punches,
take no prisoners, accept no advertising. Eschew the wealth and fame
that so often seduce online environmental journalists. And try to have a
better sense of humor than a pack of fur protesters.
Grist tackles environmental topics with irreverence, intelligence, and a
fresh perspective. Our goal is to inform, entertain, provoke, and
encourage creative thinking about environmental problems and
solutions. We publish new content each weekday -- in-depth reporting,
cartoons, summaries of breaking news stories, diary entries from
activists, book reviews, an environmental advice column, and lots more.
We're based in Seattle, and our contributors are scattered the world 'round.
http://www.gristmagazine.com/about/
- Annie Berthold-Bond, author
http://www.gristmagazine.com/week/bond092899.stm
- Charlotte Brody, Health Care Without Harm
This is a printer-friendly version of an article from Grist Magazine:
http://www.gristmagazine.com/dearme/brody051203.asp?source=daily
http://www.gristmagazine.com/cgi-bin/printify-2.pl
- Something is rotten in the state of Denmark.
A skeptical look at The Skeptical Environmentalist.
- Vanishing Point - On Bjorn Lomborg and extinction
by E.O. Wilson; 12 Dec 2001
This is a printer-friendly version of an article from Grist Magazine:
http://www.gristmagazine.com/books/wilson121201.asp
http://www.gristmagazine.com/cgi-bin/printify-2.pl
Daily Grist
- Monday, 08.21.00
Snippets of news items, such as:
"Cherry Bomb
Some Ontario lawn-care companies have begun covering up the smell
of toxic pesticides with fragrances like bubble gum, mint, and cherry.
Enviros and others worry that this new trend could endanger children,
who might be attracted to the scents. Julie Langer of the World Wildlife
Fund: "Pesticides give off a pretty recognizable smell and people
naturally act adversely to it. This is an attempt to cover up what
amounts to a warning signal."
http://www.gristmagazine.com/daily/daily082100.stm
straight to the source: Vancouver Sun, Andrew Duffy, 08.21.00
Bubblegum, cherry smells mask pesticides
Andrew Duffy Vancouver Sun
"OTTAWA -- An association that represents Ontario lawn-care companies is selling
flavoured scents to mask the smell of toxic pesticides.
"Environmentalists and landscapers worry Masker-Aid Odour Concentrate could
endanger children, particularly with fragrances like mint, cherry and bubblegum. ..."
http://www.vancouversun.com/newsite/news/000821/4620459.html
- Wednesday, 11 Dec 2002
Snippets of news items, such as:
" Sperm Wail
"Next time you're perusing the cosmetics counter at Macy's or the
personal-care aisle of CVS, you might want to take a pass on the lip liner
and aftershave. According to new research conducted by scientists at the
Harvard School of Public Health, exposure to monoethyl phthalate, a
chemical commonly used in cosmetics and fragrances, may lead to DNA
damage in men's sperm. Other studies have linked chemicals in the
phthalates family to birth defects in animals, but this is one of the first
studies on the effects of phthalates in humans. The finding comes just
weeks after a controversial decision by the U.S. Cosmetic Ingredient
Review panel, an industry-backed watchdog, to allow the continued use
of three types of phthalates in personal-care products and perfumes,
with assertions that the chemical uses were safe. The new study,
published in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives, does not
indicate whether sperm damage from monoethyl phthalate could lead to
infertility or birth defects. "
http://www.gristmagazine.com/daily/daily121102.asp
- The Hazards of Endocrine Disruptors
http://www.buildinggreen.com/news/stolen.html
- Heldref Publications.
- Everyday Exposure to Toxic Pollutants, Scientific American
http://www.sciam.com/1998/0298issue/0298ott.html
- Green Home Living
http://www.greenhomeliving.com/
- Identification of Polar Volatile Organic Compounds in Consumer
Products and Common Microenvironments, Lance A. Wallace
U.S. EPA
(This is the paper upon which Julia Kendall built her work.)
http://stores.us.ohio-state.edu/~steen/allergy/EPA_A312.html
- INDOOR AIR POLLUTION: An Introduction for Health Professionals
http://stores.us.ohio-state.edu/~steen/allergy/EPA_indoor_airpollution
.html
- Journal of Healthcare Design
http://www.healthdesign.org/library/journal/journal7/j7intro.htm
- Mother Jones
- The New England Journal of Medicine
http://www.nejm.org/
- New Scientist
http://www.newscientist.com/ns/981219/contents.html
- Polar Organic Compounds in
Fragrances of Consumer Products
http://wwws.us.ohio-state.edu/~steen/allergy/fragrance_rti4948.html
- Popular Science
Pulldown menu at page bottom takes you to their other magazines -- barb
http://www.popsci.com/
- "Precautionary Principle"
http://www.safe2use.com/data/precaut1.htm
- Prevention
Tell them about secondhand fragrances!
http://www.healthyideas.com/poll/
Psoriasis
I can't help but wonder if people with Psoriasis might see an improvement if they try to be
extremely careful about using only organic, fragrance-free products. Try to avoid the flavors and
fragrance industry's products in foods, drinks, personal care products, cleaning and
maintenance products, and "environmental products like candles, air "fresheners" and
potpourris. Also, do keep in mind that flavors and fragrances are added to pharmaceuticals that
are also derived from petrochemicals.
I know secondhand fragrance assaults can adversely affect people with eczema, acne (it caused
my adult onset acne) and fragrance products used by others can also cause, exacerbate or trigger
asthma. It seems to me it would be worth a try to keep the air around you as free from the
harmful fragrance chemicals as possible. -- barb
- Public Concern Foundation, Inc.
- News On EARTH
Phillip Frazer, Editor
email: noe@newslet.com
This is an excellent , fully packed 4-pager newsletter; worth more than its
$15 dues payment to:
Public Concern Foundation, Inc.
101 West 23 Street
PMB 2245
New York, NY 10011
- Public Citizen
http://www.citizen.org/
- Public Health and Prevention - a collabrative site between Medscape and APHA
Free, searchable site, but you have to register
http://www.medscape.com/publichealthhome
A search (10/30/03) of this site for "fragrance" turned up . . .
" Occupational Acute Anaphylactic Reaction to Assault by Perfume Spray
in the Face (Journal Article) http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/405841
"Mar 2001 - Learn more about the organic compounds present in perfumes that
have been documented to cause or exacerbate asthma."
###
Upon clicking out to the article (above) by James E. Lessenger, MD, one can read his
introduction, which leads me to believe again that we, the already fragrance-sensitized,
have not been listened too. In his introduction he stated:
"In the workplace, they have been associated with rashes in employees exposed to
scented soaps, or with such allergic conditions as rhinitis or asthma in employees exposed
to perfumes or fragrances in the air. Rarely have they been used in assaults."
Alas, fragrances have been used in assaults, not only against fellow workers, but also against
fellow students. But when the human resources manager "loves" her scents, as do the
entity's lawyers and other management staff, they'll refuse to acknowledge that fragrances
can and are being used as a deadly weapon. Therefore there is no record, and as we try to pursue
our cases, our causes, we run up against not only disbelieving doctors, but also lawyers and
judges. To my mind, we are living examples of Environmental Injustice. It is past time due
for a change in paradigm. Look at the petrochemical makeup of fragrances and then you'll see how
an assault with fragrance can lead to death-defying events. -- barb
- PubMed
- 1: Toxicol Lett 1999 Dec 20;111(1-2):161-8
AHTN and HHCB show weak estrogenic--but no uterotrophic activity.
Seinen W, Lemmen JG, Pieters RH, Verbruggen EM, van der Burg B.
Toxicology Research Institute, Utrecht University, The Netherlands.
w.seinen@ritox.vet.uu.nl
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=10630711&dopt=Abstract
- Behavioural outcome of school-age children after prenatal exposure to coumarins.
Wesseling J, Van Driel D, Heymans HS, Van der Veer E, Sauer PJ, Touwen BC, Smrkovsky M
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=10936441&dopt=Abstract
- 1: Ann N Y Acad Sci 2001 Mar;933:24-37
Controlled exposures to volatile organic compounds in sensitive groups.
Fiedler N, Kipen HM.
UMDNJ-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute,
Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, USA. nfiedler@eohsi.rutgers.edu
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=12000025&dopt=Abstract
- 1: Toxicol Lett 2002 May 28;131(3):147-51
Dermal absorption and disposition of musk ambrette, musk ketone and
musk xylene in human subjects.
Hawkins DR, Elsom LF, Kirkpatrick D, Ford RA, Api AM.
Huntingdon Life Sciences Ltd., Alconbury, Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire PE17 5HS, UK.
Musk ambrette, musk ketone and musk xylene have a long history of use as fragrance
ingredients, although musk ambrette is no longer used in fragrances. As part of the
review of the safety of these uses, it is important to consider the systemic exposure
that results from these uses. Since the primary route of exposure to fragrances is on the
skin, dermal doses of carbon-14 labelled musk ambrette, musk ketone and musk
xylene were applied to the backs (100 cm2) of healthy human volunteers (two to three
subjects) at a nominal dose level of 10-20 microg/cm2 and excess material removed at
6 h. Means of 2.0% musk ambrette, 0.5% musk ketone and 0.3% musk xylene were
absorbed based on the amounts excreted in urine and faeces during 5 days. Most of the
material was excreted in the urine with less than 10% of the amount excreted being
found in faeces. No radioactivity was detected in any plasma sample, consistent with
low absorption, and no radioactivity was detected (<0.02% dose) in skin strips taken
at 120 h. Analysis of urine samples indicated that all three compounds were excreted mainly as single glucuronide conjugates. The aglycones were chromatographically
different, but of similar polarity, to the major rat metabolites excreted in bile also as
glucuronides. PMID: 11992733 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=11992733&dopt=Abstract
- 1: J AOAC Int 2001 Mar-Apr;84(2):376-81
Determination of musk ambrette, musk xylol, and musk ketone in fragrance
products by capillary gas chromatography with electron capture detection.
Wisneski HH.; US Food and Drug Administration, Washington, DC 20204, USA.
" A gas chromatographic method using a capillary column with electron capture
detection was developed for the simultaneous determination of 3 nitromusk fragrance
ingredients: musk ambrette (MA), musk xylol (MX), and musk ketone (MK), in fragrance
products. The accuracy of the method was determined by recovery of each nitromusk
from fortified fragrance products at 3 different concentrations. Recoveries ranged
from 95.0 to 105.9% for MA, 88.4 to 102.5% for MX, and 93.7 to 103.7% for MK. The
method was used to survey 30 fragrance products purchased in the Washington, DC,
area for each of the nitromusks. MA was not found in any of the products. MX was found
in 9 products at levels ranging from 0.001 to 0.22%; MK was found in 8 products at
levels ranging from 0.023 to 0.45%. The presence of MX and MK was confirmed by gas
chromatography/mass spectrometry in many of the fragrance products. "
PMID: 11324601 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=11324601&dopt=Abstract
- 1: Toxicol Lett 1999 Dec 20;111(1-2):169-74
Developmental toxicity studies of four fragrances in rats.
Christian MS, Parker RM, Hoberman AM, Diener RM, Api AM.
Argus Research Laboratories Inc, Horsham, PA 19044, USA.
mildred.christian@primedica.com
Four fragrances, 6-acetyl-1,1,2,4,4,7-hexamethyltetraline (AHTN),
1,3,4,6,7,8-hexahydro-4,6,6,7,8,8-hexamethylcyclopenta-gamma-2-ben zopyran
(HHCB), musk ketone and musk xylene were tested for developmental toxicity in
Sprague-Dawley rats (25/group, 3 groups/fragrance, 2 fragrances/corn oil control). Dosages tested were HHCB: 50, 150, 500 mg/kg per day; AHTN: 5, 15, 50 mg/kg per
day; musk ketone: 15, 45, 150 mg/kg per day; musk xylene: 20, 60, 200 mg/kg per day.
All dosages tested exceeded multiples of the estimated maximal daily human dermal
exposure. Treatment (gavage, 5 ml/kg) occurred on GDs 7-17 and Caesarean-
sectioning on GD 20. Based on the results of these studies, none of the four fragrances
tested were more toxic in the conceptuses than in the dams. Maternal NOAELs were
50, 5, 15 and 20 mg/kg per day for HHCB, AHTN, musk ketone and musk xylene,
respectively (150, 50, 45 and 60 mg/kg per day caused clinical signs and reduced weight
gain and feed consumption). Developmental NOAELs were 150, 50, 45 and 200 mg/kg
per day for HHCB, AHTN, musk ketone and musk xylene, respectively. No
adverse effects on embryo-fetal viability, growth or morphology occurred at the highest
dosages of AHTN (50 mg/kg per day) or musk xylene (200 mg/kg per day).
Developmental toxicity occurred at the high-dosages of HHCB (axial skeletal
malformations at 500 mg/kg per day) and musk ketone (increased postimplantation loss
and reduced fetal body weight at 150 mg/kg per day). The results of this study
indicate that under conditions of normal use, the tested fragrances do not
pose a risk to human conceptuses.
PMID: 10630712 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=10630712&dopt=Abstract
- Estrogenic activity of musk fragrances detected by the e-screen assay
using human mcf-7 cells.
Bitsch N, Dudas C, Korner W, Failing K, Biselli S, Rimkus G, Brunn H.
Government Health Service Institute of Foodstuff and Veterinary Inspection,
Marburger Str. 54, D-35396 Giessen, Germany.
" The widespread use of synthetic musk fragrances and the resultant presence
of these substances and their metabolites in the aquatic environment (as
well as their accumulation in human adipose tissue) raises the question of
whether musk fragrances display endocrine and in particular estrogenic activity.
A variety of musk fragrances were tested using the E-screen assay. A statistically
significant increase in proliferation rate of human MCF-7 breast cancer cells was
detected for two nitro musks (musk xylene, musk ketone), a major metabolite of
musk xylene ( p-amino-musk xylene), and the polycyclic musk fragrance AHTN.
This indicates that these substances do, in fact, demonstrate estrogenic activity.
Coincubation with the antiestrogen tamoxifen showed that the increase in
proliferation rate by the musk fragrances is estrogen receptor-mediated. It must
be noted, however, that the effective estrogenic strength and estrogenic potency
were low compared to 17 b-estradiol. The naturally occurring fragrance muscone
from the group of macrocyclic musk fragrances, a group of substances that have
not yet been well characterized in respect to their toxicological properties, has also
been shown to be weakly estrogenically active in vitro. E-screen analysis showed
that the nitro musk metabolites o-amino musk xylene and 2-amino-MK, the
macrocyclic musk fragrances ethylene brassylate, ethylene dodecandioate, and
cyclopentadecanolide, are not estrogenically active."
PMID: 12202919 [PubMed - in process]
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=12202919&dopt=Abstract
- 1: Int J Hyg Environ Health 2001 May;203(4):293-9
Evaluation of health risks caused by musk ketone.
Schmeiser HH, Gminski R, Mersch-Sundermann V.
Institute of Microbiology and Hygiene, Faculty of Clinical Medicine
Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, P.O. Box 100023, D-68135 Mannheim, Germany.
"Among the nitro musks, musk ketone (MK) as a synthetic compound with a typical
musk odor is widely used in cosmetics. In the European Community the total amount
used in fragrances has been reported to be 110 tons/a. Additionally, relevant amounts
of MK are used in Indian joss sticks. As a result of its inherently low biodegradability
MK has been detected in the aquatic environment (surface water, sediments, edible
fish). Moreover, it has been shown that MK concentrates in human fatty tissue and
breast milk, indicating that humans are constantly exposed. Several studies provided
convincing evidence of lack of a genotoxic potential for MK. However, MK was identified
as a strong inducer of phase I enzymes in rodents and a cogenotoxicant in vitro in
human derived cells in rather low doses, suggesting that exposure to MK might increase
the susceptibility to health hazards caused by carcinogens in humans.
PMID: 11434209 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=11434209&dopt=Abstract
- Inhalation challenge effects of perfume scent strips in patients with asthma.
Kumar P, Caradonna-Graham VM, Gupta S, Cai X, Rao PN, Thompson J.
Department of Medicine, Louisiana State University Medical Center, New Orleans, USA.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=7583865&dopt=Abstract
- 1: Mutat Res 2001 Aug 22;495(1-2):89-96
Musk ketone enhances benzo(a)pyrene induced mutagenicity in human derived
Hep G2 cells.
Mersch-Sundermann V, Schneider H, Freywald C, Jenter C, Parzefall W, Knasmuller S.
Department of Toxicology and Ecotoxicology, FB VI, University of Trier, 54286 Trier, Germany.
mersch@rumms.uni-mannheim.de
Musk ketone is a widely used artificial fragrance which has been identified in human
fatty tissue and milk. The mutagenic and comutagenic effects of this compound were
studied in micronucleus tests with a human derived hepatoma cell line (Hep G2).
Exposure of the cells to MK alone in the range between 5 and 5000 ng/ml did not cause
induction of MN. When the cells were treated simultaneously with MK (5-5000 ng/ml)
and 0.2 microg/ml benzo(a)pyrene, no synergistic effects were detected;
benzo(a)pyrene (B(a)P) itself caused an 1.5-fold increase of MN over the spontaneous
background frequency (60 versus 39 MN/1000 binucleated cells). In a third experimental
series, the cells were pretreated with MK for 28h and subsequently exposed to
0.2 microg/ml B(a)P. In this case, a pronounced comutagenic effect was observed: The
LOAEL for MK was 0.05 microg/ml. With higher doses (0.5, 1.0 and 5.0 microg MK/ml),
a significant increase of B(a)P induced MN frequencies was measured, the induction
rates being 50, 66, and 88%, respectively. Additional measurements of
7-ethoxyresorufin deethylase indicated that MK induces cytochrome P450 isoenzymes
(1A1) which play a key role in the activation of B(a)P. The results of the present study
show that MK amplifies the genotoxic effects of B(a)P in human derived cells and indicate
that exposure of humans to MK might increase their susceptibility to the health
hazards of B(a)P and other polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.
PMID: 11448646 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=11448646&dopt=Abstract
- Nitromusk compounds in women with
gynecological and endocrine dysfunction.
By Eisenhardt S, Runnebaum B, Bauer K, Gerhard I.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=11771925&dopt=Abstract
- Percutaneous absorption and metabolism of Coumarin in human and rat skin.
Yourick JJ, Bronaugh RL.
Cosmetics Toxicology Branch, US Food and Drug Administration, Laurel, MD 20708, USA.
PubMed
"Coumarin is widely used as a fragrance in cosmetics, perfumes and soaps. The food and
Drug Administration banned coumarin use in food because of reports that coumarin
produced hepatotoxicity in rodents. Concerns about coumarin's safety have also been
raised by toxicity testing conducted by the National Toxicology Program. Therefore, we
initiated studies to measure the extent of coumarin absorption and metabolism in skin. ...
These studies indicate that coumarin absorption is significant in skin. Systemic coumarin
absorption must be expected after dermal contact with coumarin-containing products.
PMID: 9250536 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=9250536&dopt=Abstract
- 1: Arch Toxicol 2001 Nov;75(9):562-8
The polycyclic musk 7-acetyl-1,1,3,4,4,6-hexamethyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydronaphthaline lacks
liver tumor initiating and promoting activity in rats exposed to human-relevant doses.
Steinberg P, Zschaler I, Thom E, Kuna M, Wust G, Schafer-Schwebel A,
Muller R, Kramer PJ, Weisse G.
Lehrstuhl fur Ernahrungstoxikologie, Institut fur Ernahrungswissenschaft, Universitat
Potsdam, Arthur Scheunert Allee 114-116, 14558 Bergholz-Rehbrucke, Germany.
steinber@rz.uni-potsdam.de
PMID: 11760818 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=11760818&dopt=Abstract
- Biosci Biotechnol Biochem 1999 Apr;63(4):743-8
Potentiation of GABAA receptors expressed in Xenopus oocytes by perfume and
phytoncid.
Aoshima H, Hamamoto K
Department of Physics, Biology and Informatics, Faculty of Science,
Yamaguchi University, Japan. E-mail: aoshima@po.cc.yamaguchi-u.ac.jp
" ... Since it is known that the potentiation of GABAA receptors by benzodiazepine,
barbiturate, steroids and anesthetics induces the anxiolytic, anticonvulsant and sedative
activity or anesthetic effect, these results suggest the possibility that the intake of
perfume or phytoncid through the lungs, the skin or the intestines modulatesthe neural
transmission in the brain through ionotropic GABAA receptors and changes the
frame of the human mind, as alcohol or tobacco does." [Emphasis added.]
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?db=PubMed&cmd=Retrieve&list_uids=10361687&dopt=Abstract
Or: http://www.jsbba.or.jp/e/e_05/bbb6304e.html#-21-
- 1: Arch Environ Contam Toxicol 2002 May;42(4):437-46
Synthetic musks in the environment. Part 1: Species-dependent bioaccumulation of
polycyclic and nitro musk fragrances in freshwater fish and mussels.
Gatermann R, Biselli S, Huhnerfuss H, Rimkus GG, Hecker M, Karbe L.
Dr. Wiertz, Dipl.-Chem. Eggert, Dr. Jorissen GmbH, Analytical Laboratory (WEJ),
Stenzelring 14b, D-21107 Hamburg, Germany.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=11994785&dopt=Abstract
- 1: Arch Environ Contam Toxicol 2002 May;42(4):447-53
Synthetic musks in the environment.
Part 2: Enantioselective transformation of the polycyclic musk fragrances
HHCB, AHTN, AHDI, and ATII in freshwater fish.
Gatermann R, Biselli S, Huhnerfuss H, Rimkus GG, Franke S, Hecker M, Kallenborn R,
Karbe L, Konig WA. Dr. Wiertz, Dipl.-Chem. Eggert, Dr. Jorissen GmbH
Analytical Laboratory (WEJ), Stenzelring 14b, D-21107 Hamburg, Germany.
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=11994786&dopt=Abstract
- 1: Food Chem Toxicol 2001 Feb;39(2):97-108
Toxicological profile of diethyl phthalate: a vehicle for fragrance and
cosmetic ingredients.
Api AM. [FYI: Anne Marie Api, Ph.D., Scientific Director;
Research Institute for Fragrance Materials, Inc.]
Research Institute for Fragrance Materials Inc.
Two University Plaza, Suite 406, Hackensack, NJ 07601, USA. api@rifm.org
"Diethyl phthalate (DEP; CAS No. 84-66-2) has many industrial uses, as a solvent and
vehicle for fragrance and cosmetic ingredients and subsequent skin contact. This review
focuses on its safety in use as a solvent and vehicle for fragrance and cosmetic
ingredients. Available data are reviewed for acute toxicity, eye irritation, dermal
irritation, dermal sensitization, phototoxicity, photoallergenicity, percutaneous
absorption, kinetics, metabolism, subchronic toxicity, teratogenicity, reproductive
toxicity, estrogenic potential, genetic toxicity, chronic toxicity, carcinogenicity, in vitro
toxicity, ecotoxicity, environmental fate and potential human exposure. No toxicological
endpoints of concern have been identified. Comparison of estimated exposure
(0.73 mg/kg/day) from dermal applications of fragrances and cosmetic products with
other accepted industrial (5 mg/m(3) in air) and consumer exposures (350 mg/l in water;
0.75 mg/kg/day oral exposure) indicates no significant toxic liability for the use of DEP
in fragrances and cosmetic products. -- PMID: 11267702 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=11267702&dopt=Abstract
- 1: Int Arch Occup Environ Health 2001 Sep;74(7):470-6
Trends in the musk xylene concentrations in plasma samples from the
general population from 1992/1993 to 1998 and the relevance of dermal uptake.
Kafferlein HU, Angerer J.
Institut und Poliklinik fur Arbeits-. Sozial- und Umweltmedizin, Universitat Erlangen,
Erlangen, Germany. hkaefferlein@ciit.org
OBJECTIVES: Musk xylene (MX), an environmentally important nitromusk compound,
is used in different fragrances and soaps as substitute for natural musk. MX is known
to occur in breast milk and plasma samples from the general population. Biological
monitoring was carried out to study the change in MX concentrations in
plasma from the general population over a period of about 6 years. METHODS: Forty-one
human plasma samples from the general population were collected and analyzed
in 1998. The MX concentrations in plasma were compared with those in samples collected from the general population in 1992/1993. In order to study possible routes of
exposure, we also analyzed perfumes (n = 8), various body-care products (n = 17),
and detergents (n = 5) in the households from the persons who were exposed in 1998. The
body-care products or the detergents were used every day or at least 3 -4 times
per week. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: A remarkable decrease in MX levels was
found on comparing the values from 1992,1993 and 1998. In 1998 12% (five out of 41) of
the samples analyzed yielded positive results for MX (median: <0.1 microg/l, range:
<0.1-0.29 microg/l), while in 1993 MX was found in 92% (66 out of 72) of the samples
(median: 0.24 microg/l, range: <0.1- 1.12 microg/l). The observed decrease is
explained by the discontinued use of MX in detergents in Germany since 1993. As a
consequence, no MX could be found in the investigated detergents in the present study.
However, MX could be analyzed in at least one perfume and/or perfumed bodycare
product of the exposed individuals. The concentrations were in the range between
8.8 and 28.8 mg/kg in the investigated products. Because other confounding factors, e.g.
diet and occupational exposure, could be excluded, the results point to the possibility
that MX can be taken up through the skin. However, the small number of investigated
persons limits this assumption.
PMID: 11697449 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=11697449&dopt=Abstract
- ScienceNewsOnline
http://www.sciencenews.org/
- The Washington Spectator
http://www.newslet.com/washingtonspectator/about.htm
- Rachel's Environment & Health Weekly
- ScienceNewsOnline
- Scientific American
- The Sierra Club's Sierra Magazinee
http://www.sierraclub.org/sierra/home.html
- TOXICOLOGY PUBLICATION
including PESTICIDES and LIMONENE
http://ace.orst.edu/cgi-bin/mfs/01/newsletters/n141_94.asc?498#mfs
- UTNE READER BACK ISSUES and contact information
http://www.utne.com/reader/backissues.html
- CafÈ Utne
http://www.utne.com/cafe/
"There is no charge to visit CafÈ Utne . All that's required is that you complete a
registration form. Note: We do NOT currently have real-time chat capabilities."
- yes!
http://www.yesmagazine.org/
-- end publications --
PubMed search engine
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi
PULMONOLOGY WORLD
Pump Handle
Purchasing
Cleaner Air Starts With Environmentally Sound Procurement
Look for low-emitting-VOC, truly fragrance-free or unscented, less hazardous products.
The reason I qualify "fragrance-free" and "unscented" is that the US Food and Drug
Administration allows the industry to claim a product is unscented or fragrance-free,
which nonetheless contain synthetic fragrances, used to mask other objectionable odors.
We are admonished to read labels that don't mean anything but more confusion!
While you are thinking cleaner and greener, also think fragrance-free personal care products
to use and wear. To learn of some of the chemicals from which modern synthetic scents
are made, visit the FDA Citizens' Petition at http://www.ehnca.org/FDApetition/bkgrinfo.htm-- barb
DOI's "Traditional Versus 'Green' Cleaning Products"
"Must not contain petrochemical-derived fragrances."
Remember, if the product has "fragrance" listed on the label, it ain't green! -- barb
http://www.doi.gov/greening/sustain/trad.html
Greening Uncle Sam (GUS) -- Purchasing Tool Site
Database on Environmental Information for Products and Services
"The Environmentally Preferable Purchasing (EPP) Database is a tool to make it easier
to purchase products and services with reduced environmental impacts. The database
is organized like a shopping mall with environmental information for selected products
and services located within each store. ..."
http://www.epa.gov/oppt/epp/database.htm
Preferable Purchasing
Pure Food - Organic Consumers Association
http://www.purefood.org/
Also listed under Organic at http://users.lmi.net/~wilworks/ehnlinx/o.htm#Organic
PVCs
- #658 - PVC and the Breasts of Mothers, July 08, 1999
http://www.rachel.org/bulletin/bulletin.cfm?Issue_ID=1515
- Baffled by the Baby Bottle: A Case Study in Chemistry
http://ublib.buffalo.edu/libraries/projects/cases/baffled.html
- Discuss the pros and cons of the widespread use of polyvinylchloride (PVC)
http://users.aber.ac.uk/dgs8/official.htm
- Play Safe: Buy PVC Free
Greenpeace
http://www.greenpeace.org/~comms/pvctoys/index.html
- TOXIC TOY STORY
Written by: Jackie Hunt Christensen. Article originally featured in Mothering Magazine.
http://www.ecomall.com/greenshopping/mtoxictoy.htm
Next I developed non-healing wounds, mainly on my feet, ankles and lower legs . . . I was already into severe acne with my reactions to various fragrances worn by others, but this was different. The wounds would manifest as spontaneous craters ranging in size from nickels to quarters . . . a few the size of pennies and one the size of a half dollar. (Remember those coins?) Again on a cycle, though these would remain for six or more months, once they had developed, slowly healing from the depths of the center, up and toward the outside. They were not only ugly and painful but could impede my walking, particularly when developing on my ankles and calves. Occasionally one would appear on my thighs or kiester -- if on the sitting part of my anatomy, you can only imagine the pain and discomfort. Various ointments, including prescribed, had no noticeable affect upon the healing of these sores, so I gave up the idea of using them and just made sure the area remained free of infection. I took a love of Vitamin C. I didn't know about tea tree oil in those early days of my MCS.
Pyrethroids
Also see EHN"s section on Pesticides, but use your browser's Find Command.
http://users.lmi.net/wilworks/ehnlinx/pestcide.htm
July 2003 -- Back in the 1990s . . . can't remember when exactly, but before July 1997 . . . my
chiropractor had discovered a cycle associated with my tinnitus (ringing in the ears). He kept
a record of my work-related adverse health events, including asthma, headaches, and tinnitus.
OK, so now I had information that my tinnitus was cyclical., what did that mean? I figured it
had to be chemical, but my various reactions to fragrances couldn't explain it as that was daily
and the tinnitus was a monthly pattern, once in a while it was off by a week.
I called my friend, Julia Kendall -- the friend of so many with MCS, and a personal friend of mine
since March 1992, when I first called her in response to a newspaper column in which she was
denigrated. This time I asked of my friend: What does a monthly cycle of tinnitus mean? Julia had
a one-word explanation that WAS an explanation: "PESTICIDES!," she exclaimed. And then
she suggested I ask management for the records of their spraying: When, What, How much,
Where . . .
That info was not easily forthcoming, but they did give it to me. The pesticide spraying coincided
with my recorded adverse health events, validating Julia's quick assessment. My persistence
gained the information I had a right to know, but it also hastened me along the path of being
considered a "problem employee" -- a royal pain in management's collective backside. It was
sometime during this general timeframe that I was told by my former workplace that all they
were using were pyrethroids and they were safe. BULL! Their stories of denied
sprayings, etc., would make another book. Suffice it to say, my body always told me when the
pesticides were sprayed . . . even when off schedule by a week. And, certainly despite denial!
In the early stages of my tinnitus, it was dramatically eased by chiropractic adjustments, but
after years it grew chronic. Only now after I've been out of the workplace 4.5 (counting from October 1998) years, and with detoxing with the help of chiropractic and the addition of
acupuncture and Chinese herbs, do I find welcomed breaks in that incessant ringing in my ears.
But to return to the earlier days of my MCS . . . a few months along, I also experienced a bloom
of non-healing wounds, mainly on my feet, ankles and lower legs . . . I was already into severe
acne as one of my various reactions to fragrances worn and used by others, but this was different.
Fortunately, there would be only one or two really deep sores developing at a time. The
wounds would manifest as spontaneous craters ranging in diameter from nickels to quarters . . . a
few the size of pennies and a couple on my right ankle were the size of a half dollar. (Remember
those coins?)
The wounds accompanied the tinnitus on a cycle, though the sores would remain for six or
more months once they had developed. They healed slowly from the depths of the center, up
and toward the outside. They were not only ugly and painful but could impede my walking,
particularly when developing on my ankles and calves. Occasionally one would appear on my
thighs or kiester -- if on the sitting part of my anatomy, you can only imagine the pain and
discomfort. Various ointments, including prescribed, had no noticeable affect upon the healing
of these sores, and, of course, they weren't recognized by source. I gave up the idea of using
ointments and just made sure I kept the area free of infection. I took a load of Vitamin C.
I didn't know about tea tree oil in those earlier days of my MCS and then when I did learn about
it, it was yet another thing my body didn't like. If infection looked like it was starting to form,
I used sugar and covered it with a bandaid. I got by. Following my early retirement in 1998, I've not suffered those horrible wounds. My internist would commserate, but there was nothing
she could do to relieve them. My OMD did "circle the dragon" and between the acupuncture, the Chinese herbs, and the fact that I was then out of a very toxic workplace, the wounds healed.
And now, roughly a decade later, I have found the testimony of Dr. Adrienne Buffaloe, below,
which gives the symptoms of poisoning by Pyrethrins or Pyrethroids, plus the other information
to which I've built links. Thanks to all who have worked so hard to make crucial health
information available. The people have a right to know.
The above account could be read as a major whine by those so bent. So be it. However, I've written
this, as well as my other comments scattered throughout EHN's site, to help give clues to those
who are struggling to learn just what is the matter with their bodies. The patient has to learn,
for the bulk of the mainstream doctors are not adequately educated on environmental illnesses.
And that's a fact! -- barb
Also see EHN's Pesticide Info page, but use your Find Command and key in Pyrethrin or Pyrethroid.
http://users.lmi.net/wilworks/ehnlinx/pestcide.htm
To top of page.
EHN's homepage http://users.lmi.net/~wilworks/ehnindex.htm
ehnlinx/p.htm -- 10/17/99
link out to info on pesticide dangers, pesticide inerts, Pest Managemnt, PANNA, Pesticide Watch, Pollution, Perfume, products for EI, precautionary principal, Prop 65, publications
