Medical News Today has released an article concerning prenatal and childhood exposure to flame retardant materials which leads to various developmental issues. The main concern is a substance called Polybrominated- diphenylethers, which is commonly found in the household. Two PBDEs have been banned because of the hazards to health since 2004, but furniture such as couches or flame retardant foam and carpets before that time contain those matierials. The effects of this exposure is an impaired evelopment of nervous system, as well as hormone disrupting effects on estrogen and the thyroid. This chemical has also been linked to the increasing female hyperthyroidism in the United States, because of it's direct effects on the endocrine system. It bioaccumulates in breast milk, is linked to infertility and collects in fat tissues as well. It can enter the body through inhaling it, and small amounts in food. The health effects of PBDE continues to rise.
I have learned that simple household objects that are seemingly harmless such as couches, carpets and rugs can be hazardous to an individual's health, particularly women, her unborn baby and small children. It seems as though health concerns are growing greatly associated with synthetic and mass manufactured objects.
I chose this article because it is important to the health. It has given me further insight into the unexpected hazards of household objects. I am particularly interested in such articles for my own health, and the health of my future family. Imported furniture, toys, clothes etc from foreign countries that don't put as much concern on the hazards of manufactured goods. When I have my own home, I would like to become knowledgable about which goods are safe and unsafe for my home, and family.
WORKS CITED:
www.medicalnewstoday.com/releases/251992.php
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