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Hans India
3 days ago
- Health
- Hans India
Today is World Environment Day: Plastic and hormones: Why women must rethink everyday choices
As the world observes Environment Day, a lesser-discussed but equally urgent health concern comes to light—how chemicals in plastics are silently disrupting women's hormonal health. From storing leftovers to sipping bottled water on the go, plastics are part of daily life. But hidden within this convenience are endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs)—substances that interfere with the body's natural hormone function. For women, who experience hormonal fluctuations throughout their lives, this interference can be particularly harmful. Common plastic-related EDCs like Bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates are known to mimic or block estrogen and other hormones. They're present in everything from food packaging and containers to cosmetics, sanitary products, and household cleaners. The Health Impact: Quiet but Serious Research has linked prolonged exposure to these chemicals with a host of women's health issues: irregular periods, infertility, early puberty, PCOS, endometriosis, and even breast cancer. These aren't just isolated problems—they're growing public health concerns, worsened by continuous, low-level exposure over years. 'Endocrine-disrupting chemicals don't cause immediate symptoms, but their impact on the hormonal system can be profound and long-lasting, especially in women, who are hormonally more dynamic throughout life,' says Dr. Mahesh D M, Consultant – Endocrinology, Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore. 'Exposure during adolescence, pregnancy, or menopause can have lifelong consequences.' Unlike obvious toxins, EDCs often build up silently. They enter the body through food, touch, or even the air, gradually affecting hormonal balance. The risks are especially high during vulnerable periods like pregnancy, adolescence, and menopause. Environmental Harm Equals Hormonal Harm Environmental degradation and personal health are more connected than ever. Plastics that pollute oceans and landfills also leak harmful chemicals into food chains—and our bodies. On World Environment Day, it's important to recognise that the environmental footprint of plastic isn't just ecological—it's biological. 'In urban settings, women are frequently exposed to plastics not just through food but also through personal care products, which may contain hormone-disrupting chemicals hidden behind vague ingredient labels,' he adds. Being aware of these sources is the first step to prevention.' Women, especially in urban India, are at increased risk due to daily use of packaged goods, cosmetics, and plastic storage containers. The very products meant to offer ease and hygiene may be contributing to long-term health issues. Everyday Actions for Safer Living While complete avoidance of plastic is difficult, some small, mindful changes can go a long way in reducing exposure: • Switch to glass or stainless-steel containers for storing food and drinking water. • Avoid microwaving food in plastic containers, even if they are labeled as microwave-safe. • Opt for fragrance-free or organic personal care products, which are often more transparent about ingredients. • Reduce consumption of canned or heavily packaged foods. • Read product labels—especially on cosmetics and baby products. These habits, once adopted, can not only protect hormonal health but also reduce the household's environmental footprint. Awareness Leads to Empowerment Most women make countless daily choices for their homes and families. By choosing safer products and spreading awareness, they can lead a powerful shift toward better health and sustainability. On this World Environment Day, let's look beyond air pollution and climate change. Let's turn the lens inward—towards the products we use, the packaging we trust, and the long-term health consequences we rarely question.
Daily Mirror
27-05-2025
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Doctor says toxic household items 'must be thrown away', and you have all three
The common household objects are used every day by millions of people but are packed with dangerous chemicals A doctor has named what he says are the three most toxic household items that 'must be thrown away immediately'. Dr Saurabh Sethi, a gastroenterologist, has urged people to take action as soon as possible. First on the list from Dr Sethi is scented candles. He said: 'These contain phthalates, which are known to disrupt hormone levels,and cause respiratory issues. 'Opt for unscented or natural candles made from soy or beeswax.' Dr Sethi lists plastic cutting boards as being a danger. He says: 'These can degrade over time, releasing microplastics into your food, which can accumulate in the body. Switch to a wooden one to minimise risk.' And last on the list? Scratched or chipped non-stick pans. Dr Sethi explains: 'These contain PFAs, which have been linked to high blood pressure, cholesterol and reproductive issues. 'Damaged pans can release these particles into your food. So make sure to either replace these pans as soon as they are scratched or chipped. Or replace those with safer alternatives, such as stainless steel or cast iron.' Phthalates (pronounced thal-ates) are a group of chemical compounds commonly used to make plastics — especially polyvinyl chloride (PVC) — more flexible, durable, and harder to break. They are often referred to as plasticizers. In addition to plastics, phthalates are also found in personal care products, household items, medical devices, and even food packaging. Phthalates are endocrine disruptors, meaning they can interfere with hormone systems in the body. They can mimic or block hormones like estrogen and testosterone, leading to: Altered reproductive development Reduced sperm count and quality Early puberty in girls Hormone-related cancers (potentially) Some phthalates, like DEHP and DBP, have been linked to: Birth defects Miscarriages Developmental delays in children Testicular toxicity in animals Exposure through inhalation (like from scented products) may cause: Asthma and allergy symptoms Potential immune system effects in children Animal studies suggest some phthalates may promote tumour development. DEHP is classified as possibly carcinogenic to humans by some health agencies. Microplastics are tiny plastic particles often invisible to the naked eye — and they are considered unhealthy for both environmental and human health reasons. Microplastics can carry toxic chemicals, either from the plastic itself or absorbed from the environment. These include: Phthalates and Bisphenol A (BPA) – endocrine disruptors Heavy metals – like lead or cadmium Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) – like PCBs or DDT These chemicals may interfere with: Hormonal balance Reproductive health Neurological development Immune function PFAS stands for Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances — a large group of human-made chemicals (over 10,000 types) used since the 1940s to make products resistant to water, oil, heat, and stains. They're sometimes called "forever chemicals" because they don't break down easily in the environment or the human body. PFAS are used in a wide variety of products, including: Non-stick cookware (e.g., Teflon) Waterproof and stain-resistant fabrics (e.g., Gore-Tex, Scotchgard) Fast food wrappers, microwave popcorn bags Cosmetics (especially long-wear or waterproof types) Firefighting foams Carpets, upholstery, and paints PFAs have been linked to: Interference with thyroid function Developmental delays in infants and children Disruption of reproductive hormones Increased risk of kidney and testicular cancer Elevated cholesterol levels Liver damage Suppressed immune function Reduced response to vaccinations (especially in children) Low birth weight Pre-eclampsia Fertility issues
The Citizen
25-05-2025
- Health
- The Citizen
Thyroid cancer and the hidden risks lurking in everyday life
When cancer strikes, it often comes without warning, leaving many to ask, 'Why me?'. Among the more elusive forms is thyroid cancer – often overlooked, yet increasingly relevant in today's world of environmental toxins and high-stress lifestyles. As World Thyroid Day is commemorated today, it's the ideal time to spotlight the powerful little gland that plays a massive role in your body's well-being – and shed light on what might quietly be putting it at risk. The thyroid is a small gland located at the base of the neck and forms part of our endocrine system – the glands that produce hormones to regulate our metabolism, growth and development. These glands are responsible for our tissue function, sexual function, reproduction, sleep and even our mood. 'The thyroid, as small as it is, is crucial,' says Dr Fatima Hoosain, a specialist surgeon at a breast and thyroid health centre. 'It affects, directly or indirectly, almost every function in our bodies. The thyroid gland releases two important hormones into our bloodstream, triiodothyronine (T3) and tetraiodothyronine (T4). These hormones are produced with iodine, which is derived from the foods we eat and is a necessary constituent of our diets.' But what causes thyroid trouble? Environmental factors Environmental factors such as exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (ECDs) like bisphenols, phthalates and perchlorate can interfere with thyroid hormone synthesis, release and action. They can also mimic or disrupt thyroid function and lead to potential health issues. Bisphenol A (BPA) is found in food packaging, plastic bottles and the lining of canned foods. BPA can mimic oestrogen in the body, raising concerns about its potential health effects. Phthalates are chemicals used to make plastics more flexible and are commonly found in cosmetics, food packaging and household items. Research suggests that prolonged exposure may interfere with hormone function, potentially affecting reproductive health. Perchlorate is a chemical found in fireworks, bleach and contaminated water, and primarily affects thyroid health by interfering with iodide uptake, potentially leading to reduced thyroid hormone production. 'There are ways to minimise your exposure to EDCs,' says Hoosain. 'BPA-free food packaging and containers are available in South Africa. BPA is banned in baby bottles in this country, and most domestically manufactured plastic food packaging is also BPA-free. You can also look for phthalate-free labelling on cosmetics, personal care items and household products, limit the excessive use of bleach and filter your water,' she advises. Lifestyle choices Lifestyle choices such as diet, exercise and stress management play a role in maintaining thyroid function. Chronic stress can affect thyroid hormone levels and exacerbate thyroid disorders. Says Hoosain: 'A diet low in pro-inflammatory foods such as added sugar and ultra-processed foods may be beneficial for hypothyroidism. Consuming foods rich in iodine, selenium, zinc, vitamin B12, magnesium and iron also supports thyroid health. Stress in today's world is multi-faceted and stress relief tools such as exercise, meditation and prioritising work-life balance are important, not only for the thyroid but for overall health.' Like many cancers, thyroid cancer can have a genetic component. People with a family history of thyroid cancer, particularly medullary thyroid cancer, or the rare pheochromocytoma tumour (a tumour that develops in the adrenal gland), have higher chances of developing thyroid cancer. As in the case of breast cancer, a genetic test can be advised in selected individuals to determine if the patient carries genes that increase the potential risk of having the disease. Furthermore, risk reduction options are available if a mutation is found in the RET gene. Thyroid cancer treatment Treatment depends on the type of thyroid cancer, the size of the cancer, the patient's age and whether the cancer has spread to lymph nodes or other organs. 'Surgery is generally the main treatment for thyroid cancer. Thyroid cancer is diagnosed using a combination of a fine needle biopsy and ultrasound. Surgery to remove half or all of the thyroid gland is recommended if the diagnosis is confirmed. With the exception of medullary and anaplastic thyroid cancers, it is rare for thyroid cancers to require more aggressive treatments such as radiation and chemotherapy. Biologicals are reserved for patients with metastatic disease or [those who] do not respond to radioactive iodine therapy,' says Hoosain. Most thyroid cancers behave similarly to normal thyroid tissue, which can be exploited by adding radioactive iodine to the treatment plan. The iodine concentrates in the cancer cells and slowly destroys them. 'The slow growth of most thyroid cancers also means that if treated properly, they have an excellent prognosis,' explains Hoosain. Long-term treatment consists of administering thyroid hormones in the form of pills to replace the function of the removed thyroid gland and to suppress the growth of residual thyroid tissue, but this too is individualised and reserved for patients who have had the whole thyroid removed. According to Hoosain, once the primary treatment is completed, most patients will lead a normal life. 'Follow-up consists of annual visits to the doctor for a physical examination, an ultrasound of the neck and blood examinations to check for thyroid hormone levels and markers for recurrent cancer,' she adds. Thyroid cancer is rare, but it is still one of the more common cancers. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for better survival chances. While thyroid dysfunction is common, diseases of the thyroid are rarely cancerous and can usually be well-managed. These functional abnormalities include hypothyroidism (lack of thyroid hormones secreted) and hyperthyroidism (increase in thyroid hormones secreted). Breaking news at your fingertips… Follow Caxton Network News on Facebook and join our WhatsApp channel. Nuus wat saakmaak. Volg Caxton Netwerk-nuus op Facebook en sluit aan by ons WhatsApp-kanaal. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
IOL News
21-05-2025
- Business
- IOL News
Pregnancy discrimination backfires: Chemist wins R724,000 payout
A Durban company has been ordered to pay a chemist 11 months salary for discriminating against her on the basis of pregnancy. Image: Pixabay/pexels The Labour Court of South Africa has ruled that a Durban paint company had unfairly discriminated against a pregnant woman by sending her early on maternity leave without pay. Induradec Coatings Pty in Pinetown has been ordered to pay Tiisetso Moleme R724,000 in compensation which is equivalent to 11 months salary. Moleme had been employed as a chemist by the chemical coating company, since October 2021. Her job entailed the development of products and research. In March 2023, Moleme informed her employees via email that she was pregnant. She expressed her concern to the human resources department about working in the lab which would explose her to certain chemicals, including Bisphenol A, and requested to be moved out the enivironment. Moleme said her manager gave her a respirator with a letter to take to her gynaecologist to ask him if the breathing apparatus was sufficient her for use without affecting the health of her baby. The doctor said that this requst was outside of his scope of expertise and said that the company had to secure a Health and Safety offical. The manager then asked her to do the same with her general practioner, to which she received the same response. On May 11, 2023, Moleme was invited to a meeting with senior managers where she was told that the company had no other option but to place her on extended maternity leave. In a further email the company went on to say that it was explained to Moleme at the meeting that "this is best for the benefit of both you and your unborn child." It further read: "We confirm that you indicated that you might be able to do research, howeve,r this is not an option because presently there are not any projects which require research." In January 2024, Moleme received a Whatsapp message that her maternity leave was scheduled to have terminated and that she was absent without leave. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad Loading In a response Moleme said she was resigning as she has lost her home, car and suffered immense financial loss and had to relocate to Johannesburg. The Labour Court in its findings ruled that it was required by the company to obtain the services of a Health and Safety Expert to conduct the investigation. It added that they failed to establish that Moleme'sremoval from the lab for the duration of her pregnancy had in fact been neccessary. "In the circumstances the respondent failed to establish a factual basis upon which this court could conclude that its decision to place Moleme on extended, unpaid maternity leave was rational and not unfair or otherwise justifiable." The court ruled that Moleme was was unfairly discriminated on the grounds of pregnancy and the company was also ordered to pay the costs of the application. IOL News
Western Telegraph
15-05-2025
- Health
- Western Telegraph
Is it ok to drink warm bottled water? Expert issues warning
However, a warning has been issued over the risks of drinking warm bottled water. Leaving a bottle of water in the sun can "pose potential risks", an expert has warned. Here is all you need to know. Is it ok to drink warm bottled water? Ann Garry is a qualified nutritionist and the director of nutrition training and chief executive of Health Coaches Academy. She said that while warm bottled water on its own is not a problem, plastic bottles being left exposed to sunlight can cause issues. She said: "While warm bottled water isn't inherently dangerous, plastic bottled water left in warm conditions for a long time, particularly direct sunlight, can pose potential risks. "The primary concern is chemical leaching, where heat can cause plastic bottles to release small amounts of chemicals into the water. "Polyethylene terephthalate (PET), the most common plastic used in UK bottled water containers, can potentially migrate into the water when exposed to high temperatures." The expert also explained other risks associated with drinking bottled water that's been heated over a long period of time. Drinking warm bottled water could cause health problems (Image: Getty Images) Ann said: 'Other than PET, many plastic water bottles, especially older ones, contain a chemical called BPA (Bisphenol A), which can leach into the water when exposed to heat. "BPA has been linked to various health problems, including hormonal imbalances, developmental issues in children, and increased risk of certain cancers. "Even BPA-free bottles can release other chemicals that might be harmful. "Plastic bottles can also contain phthalates, chemicals used to make plastic flexible. Heat can cause phthalates to leach into the water, potentially disrupting the body's endocrine system.' Warm temperatures can also lead to bacterial growth, which can lead to illness, or affect the taste and odour of bottled water, she said. Plastic bottles can pose potential risks (Image: Getty Images) Ann added: 'To reduce these risks, it's best to avoid storing bottled water in places that are exposed to heat, such as a car on a hot day, and to choose alternatives like stainless steel or glass containers when possible. "If you're concerned about chemicals leaching from plastic, opt for BPA-free bottles or consider switching to reusable, eco-friendly options.' "Staying hydrated is far more important, though if you are feeling overheated, it's recommended to have a colder beverage, if you have the choice." How much water should I drink per day? The expert said: "Though there's no universal guideline to suit everyone, a good general recommendation is that the average adult should drink around 1.5 to 2 litres of water per day. "However, your individual needs can vary depending on your body size, activity levels, diet, if you're diabetic, and the climate you're in.' Ann also said that we can obtain some of our daily water intake from food such as fruits and vegetables, which have a "high water content". She also warned that while many drinks do contribute to fluid intake, "not all are equally hydrating". She said: "Water should always be your primary source of hydration, but herbal teas, diluted squash or cordial, and even your regular cup of breakfast tea can also count towards your daily intake. 'That said, it's a good idea to limit drinks high in sugar, caffeine, or artificial sweeteners, as they can have other beneficial effects on your overall health. 'For example, caffeine can have a mild diuretic effect in some people (promotes release of water), and sugary drinks can disrupt blood sugar balance. "In isolation, these types of drinks are best enjoyed in moderation and shouldn't replace your basic water intake.' Can you drink too much water? How much is too much Experts at DASH Water teamed up with renowned chef and nutrition, health and wellness coach Lisa Marley to answer the question. Telling Newsquest previously, Lisa said: "Yes, you can drink too much water in a day, which can lead to water intoxication or hyponatremia. "This happens when excessive water intake dilutes sodium levels in the blood, causing cells to swell." In severe cases, drinking too much water can lead to headaches, confusion, seizures or even death. Tips on staying hydrated this summer Ann suggested some top tips on drinking more water and staying hydrated this summer, these are: Begin your day with water - start with water first thing in the morning, cold or warm, sipping rather than drinking a whole pint in one go helps better hydration. Carry a water bottle everywhere - Having a reusable bottle in your bag or on your desk acts as a visual cue to drink regularly throughout the day. Set reminders or use an app - Timed reminders on your phone or tracking apps can gently prompt you to sip throughout the day. Create hydration cues - Pair drinking water with other daily habits, such as having a glass of water 30 minutes before or an hour after every meal, or whenever you get up from your desk. Infuse water with natural flavours - If you're not a fan of plain water, try infusing it with slices of lemon, lime, cucumber, or fresh mint. Eat your water - Include more hydrating foods in your diet, such as watermelon, cucumber, celery, and strawberries, as they help support hydration naturally. How can you tell if you are dehydrated? Signs to look for Ann explained the signs that you or someone else is dehydrated. Some early indicators of dehydration are: Feeling thirsty Feeling hungry (often disguised as thirst) Dry mouth or lips Fatigue or sluggishness Difficulty concentrating or feeling foggy Dizziness or lightheadedness Dark yellow urine or urinating less frequently Headaches Muscle cramps (after exercise) Sunken eyes Recommended reading: Ann said: "Mild dehydration is common, but over time, even slight deficits in fluid intake can impact your wellbeing. "Water is vital to the transportation and absorption of nutrients, which can have a significant knock-on effect on your health. "Staying hydrated supports not just physical health, but also mental clarity and consistent energy levels throughout the day.'
