Toxic Chemicals are Contributing to an Epidemic of Chronic Illnesses

Did you know that Developing Children are Uniquely Vulnerable to Toxins?

Because their bodies are still developing, children - and especially the developing fetus and newborn - are uniquely vulnerable to health damage from toxic substances.   For example animal tests show that small, single doses of certain pesticides on a critical day of development can cause permanent hyperactivity and changes in brain chemistry.  

Childhood illness is even linked to parent's exposure to toxins.   For example, childhood brain cancers and leukemia are consistently associated with a parent's exposure to paint, petroleum products, solvents and pesticides.  

We assume that many things in our children's daily lives are safe

- but some are not.

Many cleaning products contain solvents, Studies show that men who use solvents are more likely to have fertility problems, and their children are more likely to get cancer. Toxic cleaning chemicals are also linked to asthma and cancer, and can damage our hormone and nervous systems. These chemicals are commonly used in daycare centers, schools, and even hospitals.

Hospitals often use IV tubing and other critical medical devices made of PVC plastic, which leaches a chemical that may cause testicular and respiratory damage in developing infants. Latex allergies, too, are an increasing problem. Frequent exposure to latex gloves and products can cause severe breathing problems, skin rashes, and serious allergic reactions.

Tuna fish is contaminated with mercury; women of child-bearing age and young children should limit how frequently they eat it. Mercury from eating contaminated fish can damage children's ability to pay attention, remember, talk, draw, see and play. Other fish contaminated with mercury include shark, swordfish, king mackerel and many fish from lakes, streams and ponds.

Many materials commonly used in school buildings, such as carpet, upholstery and particleboard, emit Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) which cause headaches, nausea, and eye, nose and throat irritation, and can damage the liver, kidneys and nervous system. Some, such as formaldehyde, are known or likely to cause cancer and can trigger asthma attacks.

The use of home and garden pesticides (weed and bug killers) is associated with increased likelihood of some kinds of childhood leukemia and brain cancer. Pesticides can also damage children's coordination, memory and stamina, including their ability to learn, play or draw a picture.

Be a Part of the Solution !

The Alliance for a Healthy Tomorrow is a coalition of citizens, scientists, health professionals, workers, and educators seeking preventive action on toxic hazards.   Our goal is to correct fundamental flaws in government policies that allow harm to our health and environment. We will create proactive policies to prevent harm before the damage is done, and to choose the safest alternatives.   We believe protection of our health must become the first priority of government policy. We support innovation to advance safer technologies, materials and solutions.

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