Tuesday, July 28, 2009

More Plastic Posions For Our Kids

Also see: Poisoning Our Kids: From Potions to Pills to Playgrounds

And what are plastics made of, readers?

Oil, of course.

Hmmmmm.


"Study says chemical poses risk to premature babies" by Lindsey Tanner, Associated Press | July 27, 2009

CHICAGO - A chemical used in many plastic products that is already under scrutiny for potential health risks is suspected of raising the risk of liver problems in premature babies, according to a new study.

I was a premie.

The small study in a German hospital suggests a chemical known as a phthalate, used in some intravenous feeding bags and tubing, may raise preemies’ chances for liver damage. Rigorous research on phthalates’ effects in humans is lacking, and at least one specialist found the German study unconvincing. There is no solid proof implicating the phthalate studied, DEHP....

Phthalates (pronounced thowl-ates) are found in many products besides medical supplies - toys, vinyl flooring, and cosmetics. They’re used to stabilize fragrances and make plastics flexible.

They are different from bisphenol-A, or BPA, a plastic-hardening chemical that also has raised health concerns and is found in food containers and other products. It’s no longer used in many baby bottles.

I suspect that is a lie because
Massachusetts hasn't banned them yet.

Related:
Conn. Attorney General wants details on bisphenol A marketing campaign

Well, I guess it is not "technically" a lie, but it sure is distorting and deceptive.

No longer used in "many," but STILL USED!


In a 2002 phthalates advisory, the Food and Drug Administration recommended alternatives for patients most at risk from the chemical leaching out of plastic medical equipment, including sick infant boys because of possible damage to developing reproductive organs.

FDA made recommendations in 2002, huh? And nothing, 'eh?


A limitation that could have skewed the results.

But.... Oh, so now what am I to think of this study? Not to worry, huh?


Edmund Crouch, a scientist who served with the Rochester professor on a National Research Council committee on phthalate risks, was skeptical and said the study doesn’t rule out other factors that might have caused liver problems.

Why does Erin Brockovich leap into my head?

Steve Risotto of the American Chemistry Council, which represents chemical makers, also disputed the results and said the study “doesn’t show any direct cause and effect.’’

Now I'm convinced there is something wrong.

--more--"

Better keep that kid in there even if he wants out, lady.