A recent study by environmental health and consumer watchdogs, Mamavation and Environmental Health News, has revealed alarming news about popular bandages. These bandages, including well-known brands like Band-Aid and Curad, contain high levels of toxic “forever chemicals,” also known as PFAS. This revelation is concerning because these chemicals can potentially cause cancer and other health issues.
The main discovery from the research is not only surprising but also a significant cause for concern for the millions of people worldwide who regularly use bandages. These chemicals have the potential to seep into the bloodstream via open wounds, posing a risk of various health complications.
Following the examination of 40 bandages across 18 different brands, the study determined that 26 of them contained detectable levels of organic fluorine, which serves as an indicator of harmful PFAS chemicals. These levels surpassed 10 parts per million (ppm).
Out of all the bandages examined, 65% showed signs of PFAS “forever chemicals.” Specifically, among bandages targeted towards People of Color with black and brown skin tones, 63% exhibited indications of these harmful chemicals. The range of organic fluorine levels, serving as a marker for PFAS, varied from 11 ppm to 328 ppm.
Dr. Linda S. Birnbaum, co-author of the study and former director of the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences and National Toxicology Program, expressed her concern over the potential exposure of children and adults to PFAS through bandages placed on open wounds. She emphasized that the data clearly indicates that PFAS are unnecessary for wound care. Dr. Birnbaum stressed the importance for the industry to remove PFAS from bandages and instead utilize PFAS-free materials to safeguard public health from these harmful chemicals.
Why Are PFAS Used in Bandages?
As per Mamavation, bandages may contain PFAS chemicals due to their ability to provide waterproof properties. However, these chemicals have been associated with a range of health issues including impacts on growth, reproduction, obesity, and different cancer types. PFAS, also known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are synthetic chemicals resistant to heat, oil, stains, grease, and water. They are frequently present in items such as adhesives, nonstick cookware, and food packaging.
What Are “Forever Chemicals”?
PFAS chemicals have been dubbed “forever chemicals” due to their exceptional resistance to breaking down and their ability to persist in the human body for extended periods. These chemicals have the capacity to infiltrate the bloodstream through ingestion or direct exposure, where they can become lodged in healthy tissues, posing a potential risk of organ damage.
High-Risk Band-aid Brands
The study examined various brands, with those featuring bandages containing elevated levels of fluorine (exceeding 100 parts per million) including:
Band-Aid
CVS Health
Equate
Rite Aid
Amazon’s Solimo
Target
Curad
check the full list here: https://www.mamavation.com/health/band-aids-bandages-pfas-forever-chemicals-report.html