Pregnant women and chemicals

The bodies of most pregnant women in the United States are exposed to a variety of chemicals, including some chemicals that have been banned since the 1970s, and some other chemicals available in the Common products such as non-stick pans, processed foods and personal care cosmetics, according to a new study by UCSF, USA.

Image for illustrative purposes. (Internet source)

Analyzing data of 163 different chemicals, the researchers found 99% to 100% of pregnant women exposed to the following chemicals: polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), organochlorine pesticides , perfluorinated compounds (PFCs) ), phenols , polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), phthalates , polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and perchlorate .

Among these chemicals, the researchers identified: PBDEs compounds used as flame retardants, are now banned in many states including California, and Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) chemicals. , a pesticide banned from use in the United States in 1972.

Bisphenol A (BPA) chemicals, found in epoxy resins used to line inside metal food and beverage boxes, are identified in the body of 96% of pregnant women. survey. Exposure to pregnant women 's BPA chemicals has been linked to a decrease in health, affect mental development, and increase the child's sensitivity to cancer later, according to the researchers. .

" It is surprising that too much chemical exposure in pregnant women is not fully understood about the effects of chemicals on pregnancy, " according to author Tracey Woodruff, PhD, Director. UCSF health and environment programs Some chemicals exist in the body of pregnant women to a certain extent, are thought to be associated with negative effects on the health of maternal health and children, according to other studies.

In addition, exposure to many chemicals may increase the risk of maternal and child health more than just exposure to a chemical, according to Professor Woodruff, who works at UCSF .