Latest news with #LeonardoTrasande
Scottish Sun
6 days ago
- Health
- Scottish Sun
Bedding among 3 household items to ‘avoid at all costs' after links to stroke, cancer and 356,000 deaths in just 1 year
Find out everything you need to know about microplastics and the potential health risks below HOME HAZARDS Bedding among 3 household items to 'avoid at all costs' after links to stroke, cancer and 356,000 deaths in just 1 year A TOP scientist has revealed three everyday household items we should 'avoid at all costs' after they were linked to a raft of serious health problems. Repeated exposure could lead to cancer, infertility, and strokes, she warns. Advertisement 3 Polyester sheets may be riddled with dangerous PFAS Credit: Getty Dr Shanna Swan, a reproductive epidemiologist and member of the Plastic Health Council, says Brits are being exposed just by eating, sleeping, and showering. This is because many household items contain microplastics - tiny fragments of plastic less than 5mm in size. These particles have now been found throughout the human body, including the brain, lungs, blood, and even unborn babies. Studies have linked them to a range of potential health issues, including reproductive problems, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and neurological effects. Advertisement They can also contribute to inflammation, cell damage, and disrupt the gut microbiome. One plastic chemical alone, a phthalate called DEHP, was linked to more than 356,000 deaths worldwide in a single year, according to a study by Professor Leonardo Trasande from New York University, US. Phthalates are chemicals used to make plastic more flexible and durable. They've been linked to hormone disruption, fertility problems, developmental issues, and a higher risk of certain cancers. Advertisement Studies have also connected phthalate exposure to asthma, ADHD, obesity, and type 2 diabetes. "Every day that passes more plastic chemicals enter our bodies through items many consider safe and normal," Dr Shanna says. The 6 everyday items 'poisoning' you with toxic plastics linked to cancer 'Whilst there are some plastic products we should aim to avoid at all costs we need regulatory action if we are to see real change. "We must phase out toxic plastics and prioritise health in every part of the plastics supply chain.' Advertisement The three items Dr Swan and other experts are most concerned about are food containers, bedding, and personal care products. Plastic containers used for microwave meals, takeaway packaging, and clingfilm can release phthalates when heated or frozen, previous research has found. Synthetic bedding, like memory foam pillows, polyester sheets, and mattresses, may contain flame retardants and water-resistant coatings known as PFAS. PFAS are a large group of synthetic chemicals used in consumer products worldwide since the 1950s. Advertisement 3 When heated up, plastic containers can release chemicals linked to fertility problems Credit: Getty 3 Some shower gels are made of plastic-based chemicals that can be absorbed through the skin Credit: Getty Exposure has been linked to increased risk of certain cancers, altered immune function, liver damage, and reproductive and developmental issues. Some studies also suggest links between PFAS and thyroid disease, changes in cholesterol levels, and behavioural problems in children. Advertisement These chemicals can be absorbed through the skin, especially during long hours of sleep. Toiletries, including shower gel, shampoo and moisturiser, may also contain phthalates as well as other plastic-based chemicals such as acrylates and thickeners. These substances can be absorbed through the skin, potentially causing irritation, hormonal disruption, and long-term health effects. 'Plastic is not inert," Sian Sutherland co-founder of the Plastic Health Council and campaign group A Plastic Planet said. "It is a toxic mixture of chemicals". Advertisement She added: "If governments and industry refuse to protect us we need to take charge of our own health and demand to know why when the science has been so clear for decades are our babies now born pre-polluted. When will enough be enough.' The warning comes as world leaders gather in Geneva to finalise the UN Global Plastics Treaty which aims to reduce plastic production and ban toxic chemicals from everyday products. Most nations back strong measures but a small group of oil-producing countries and the plastics industry have delayed progress. The Plastic Health Council is calling for a cap on plastic production, a ban on harmful substances and mandatory chemical testing of all plastic products before they reach consumers. Advertisement
The Sun
6 days ago
- Health
- The Sun
Bedding among 3 household items to ‘avoid at all costs' after links to stroke, cancer and 356,000 deaths in just 1 year
A TOP scientist has revealed three everyday household items we should 'avoid at all costs' after they were linked to a raft of serious health problems. Repeated exposure could lead to cancer, infertility, and strokes, she warns. 3 Dr Shanna Swan, a reproductive epidemiologist and member of the Plastic Health Council, says Brits are being exposed just by eating, sleeping, and showering. This is because many household items contain microplastics - tiny fragments of plastic less than 5mm in size. These particles have now been found throughout the human body, including the brain, lungs, blood, and even unborn babies. Studies have linked them to a range of potential health issues, including reproductive problems, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and neurological effects. They can also contribute to inflammation, cell damage, and disrupt the gut microbiome. One plastic chemical alone, a phthalate called DEHP, was linked to more than 356,000 deaths worldwide in a single year, according to a study by Professor Leonardo Trasande from New York University, US. Phthalates are chemicals used to make plastic more flexible and durable. They've been linked to hormone disruption, fertility problems, developmental issues, and a higher risk of certain cancers. Studies have also connected phthalate exposure to asthma, ADHD, obesity, and type 2 diabetes. "Every day that passes more plastic chemicals enter our bodies through items many consider safe and normal," Dr Shanna says. The 6 everyday items 'poisoning' you with toxic plastics linked to cancer 'Whilst there are some plastic products we should aim to avoid at all costs we need regulatory action if we are to see real change. "We must phase out toxic plastics and prioritise health in every part of the plastics supply chain.' The three items Dr Swan and other experts are most concerned about are food containers, bedding, and personal care products. Plastic containers used for microwave meals, takeaway packaging, and clingfilm can release phthalates when heated or frozen, previous research has found. Synthetic bedding, like memory foam pillows, polyester sheets, and mattresses, may contain flame retardants and water-resistant coatings known as PFAS. PFAS are a large group of synthetic chemicals used in consumer products worldwide since the 1950s. Exposure has been linked to increased risk of certain cancers, altered immune function, liver damage, and reproductive and developmental issues. Some studies also suggest links between PFAS and thyroid disease, changes in cholesterol levels, and behavioural problems in children. These chemicals can be absorbed through the skin, especially during long hours of sleep. Toiletries, including shower gel, shampoo and moisturiser, may also contain phthalates as well as other plastic-based chemicals such as acrylates and thickeners. These substances can be absorbed through the skin, potentially causing irritation, hormonal disruption, and long-term health effects. 'Plastic is not inert," Sian Sutherland co-founder of the Plastic Health Council and campaign group A Plastic Planet said. "It is a toxic mixture of chemicals". She added: "If governments and industry refuse to protect us we need to take charge of our own health and demand to know why when the science has been so clear for decades are our babies now born pre-polluted. When will enough be enough.' The warning comes as world leaders gather in Geneva to finalise the UN Global Plastics Treaty which aims to reduce plastic production and ban toxic chemicals from everyday products. Most nations back strong measures but a small group of oil-producing countries and the plastics industry have delayed progress. The Plastic Health Council is calling for a cap on plastic production, a ban on harmful substances and mandatory chemical testing of all plastic products before they reach consumers. What are microplastics and why are they a worry? Microplastics are tiny plastic particles less than five millimetres in diameter. They come from a variety of sources in our everyday life, from larger pieces of plastic debris, such as from the degradation of bottles, to the tiny beads in personal care products like toothpaste and exfoliants, and synthetic fibres from textiles like polyester and nylon. We can either ingest them, for example in food and water contaminated with them, or inhale them from the air. There is growing concern about the potential health impacts of microplastics on both the environment and human health. When ingested or inhaled, microplastics can cause physical and chemical damage to living organisms. Studies have shown that they may be involved in inflammation in the body by leading to the release of proteins called inflammatory cytokines. While these studies are typically small and in animals or cells, inflammation is linked to a range of chronic diseases, including heart disease, autoimmune disorders, and cancer. Cellular damage has been a key focus of studies on microplastics. The tiny pieces of plastic have been shown to cause cell death, cause damage via oxidative stress, and interfere with hormone function. There is also evidence to suggest that microplastics can cause genotoxic effects, meaning they can damage genetic material within cells - raising fears they can contribute to cancer. The evidence is still evolving for these tiny particles that are barely visible to the naked eye
Economic Times
04-08-2025
- Health
- Economic Times
Holding bill receipts for more than 10 seconds may decrease your sperm count: Research
Common items such as shopping receipts, ATM slips, and restaurant bills may contain Bisphenol S (BPS), a chemical that can be absorbed through the skin within seconds. BPS is a hormone-disrupting compound known to mimic estrogen, potentially affecting metabolism, growth, and development. Though marketed as a safer alternative to Bisphenol A (BPA), BPS has also been linked to a range of health concerns, including decreased sperm count, cognitive issues, and breast cancer. According to a study conducted by the Center for Environmental Health (CEH), a U.S.-based non-profit organisation, thermal paper receipts were found to carry toxic levels of BPS. The CEH has issued violation notices to about 50 major retailers, including Burger King, Chanel, and Dollar General, for exceeding California's Proposition 65 limits for BPS exposure. The group warned that even brief contact with BPS-coated receipts could surpass safe harbour thresholds and may require businesses to issue formal health warnings. Store workers and frequent receipt handlers are considered particularly at risk. Based on CEH research and testing conducted by an independent laboratory, the concentrations of BPS found in receipts were so high that touching just one receipt for 10 seconds was enough to exceed the safe harbour exposure level. Under California's Proposition 65, such levels require a clear and reasonable warning to consumers. CEH took legal action against an additional 38 retailers following further investigations. Since the beginning of the year, CEH has filed legal complaints against a total of 90 companies for the presence of BPS in their receipt paper. Dr Leonardo Trasande, a professor of paediatrics and environmental health researcher at NYU Langone, told Business Insider that hazardous chemicals often come from overlooked sources. He noted that while thermal paper may not appear to be plastic, its glossy coating contains polymers, including bisphenols. Bisphenols are a class of chemicals found in numerous consumer goods, including food packaging, fabrics, toys, and cookware. Many companies have phased out BPA in favour of BPA-free materials, often replacing it with BPS. However, emerging research indicates that BPS may carry similar or greater toxicity. To reduce exposure, experts recommend opting for digital receipts where possible and declining printed ones. For individuals who must handle receipts regularly, such as retail staff, wearing gloves is advised. Avoiding alcohol-based hand sanitisers before touching receipts and supporting businesses that use BPS-free alternatives are also suggested as preventive steps. The CEH has called on regulatory bodies to update chemical safety regulations and enforce clearer labelling for products containing harmful bisphenols. The organisation stated that relying on chemical substitutions without thorough health evaluations could lead to ongoing risks. It has also encouraged consumers to be aware of the presence of such substances in everyday products and to push for safer commercial practices. Ace Hardware Dutch Bros Petco Aesop Exxon Petsmart Alliance Thermal Paper Famous Footwear PF Chang's Amazon Fresh FedEx Office & Print Phillips 66 (76) AMC Five Guys Pizza Hut Applebee's Foot Locker Pressed Autozone Forever 21 Raising Cane's Baskin Robbins GameStop Red Robin Burger King Gap Outlet Red Lobster Burlington Habit Burger Ross Capital One Harbor Freight Saks Off 5th Carl's Jr Hot Dog on a Stick Shake Shack Cardenas IHOP Shell Smart & Final Champs Jack in the Box Sonic Chanel JCPenney Spencer's Chili's JPMorgan Chase Staples Church's KFC Subway Cinnabon Kroger (Foods Co) Taco Bell Claire's Lids Tractor Supply Coldstone Little Caesars The Cheesecake Factory Converse Lowe's ULTA Crumbl McDonald's Corporation Victoria's Secret Daiso MOD Pizza Walmart Del Taco Nordstrom Rack Wetzel's Pretzels Denny's Office Depot Wells Fargo Dick's Sporting Goods Olive Garden Williams Sonoma Dollar General Papa John's Yard House Dollar Tree Papa Murphy's Domino's Peet's Coffee & Tea Disclaimer: This report is based on findings by CEH in the United States during April and May 2025. The present status of these findings is currently unknown. Readers are advised to exercise discretion.
Time of India
04-08-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Holding bill receipts for more than 10 seconds may decrease your sperm count: Research
Common items such as shopping receipts, ATM slips, and restaurant bills may contain Bisphenol S (BPS), a chemical that can be absorbed through the skin within seconds. BPS is a hormone-disrupting compound known to mimic estrogen, potentially affecting metabolism, growth, and development. Though marketed as a safer alternative to Bisphenol A (BPA), BPS has also been linked to a range of health concerns, including decreased sperm count, cognitive issues, and breast cancer. Retailers in the spotlight for BPS violations Explore courses from Top Institutes in Please select course: Select a Course Category Data Science Degree Public Policy CXO Artificial Intelligence Cybersecurity Finance Digital Marketing Product Management others Data Analytics PGDM MCA Project Management Management Technology Leadership Healthcare Data Science Others MBA healthcare Design Thinking Operations Management Skills you'll gain: Strategic Data-Analysis, including Data Mining & Preparation Predictive Modeling & Advanced Clustering Techniques Machine Learning Concepts & Regression Analysis Cutting-edge applications of AI, like NLP & Generative AI Duration: 8 Months IIM Kozhikode Professional Certificate in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence Starts on Jun 26, 2024 Get Details Skills you'll gain: Data Analysis & Interpretation Programming Proficiency Problem-Solving Skills Machine Learning & Artificial Intelligence Duration: 24 Months Vellore Institute of Technology VIT MSc in Data Science Starts on Aug 14, 2024 Get Details According to a study conducted by the Center for Environmental Health (CEH), a U.S.-based non-profit organisation, thermal paper receipts were found to carry toxic levels of BPS. The CEH has issued violation notices to about 50 major retailers, including Burger King, Chanel, and Dollar General, for exceeding California's Proposition 65 limits for BPS exposure. The group warned that even brief contact with BPS-coated receipts could surpass safe harbour thresholds and may require businesses to issue formal health warnings. Store workers and frequent receipt handlers are considered particularly at risk. Based on CEH research and testing conducted by an independent laboratory, the concentrations of BPS found in receipts were so high that touching just one receipt for 10 seconds was enough to exceed the safe harbour exposure level. Under California's Proposition 65, such levels require a clear and reasonable warning to consumers. CEH took legal action against an additional 38 retailers following further investigations. Since the beginning of the year, CEH has filed legal complaints against a total of 90 companies for the presence of BPS in their receipt paper. Live Events Experts warn of unexpected sources of exposure Dr Leonardo Trasande, a professor of paediatrics and environmental health researcher at NYU Langone, told Business Insider that hazardous chemicals often come from overlooked sources. He noted that while thermal paper may not appear to be plastic, its glossy coating contains polymers, including bisphenols. Growing concerns over BPA alternatives Bisphenols are a class of chemicals found in numerous consumer goods, including food packaging, fabrics, toys, and cookware. Many companies have phased out BPA in favour of BPA-free materials, often replacing it with BPS. However, emerging research indicates that BPS may carry similar or greater toxicity. Precautionary measures recommended To reduce exposure, experts recommend opting for digital receipts where possible and declining printed ones. For individuals who must handle receipts regularly, such as retail staff, wearing gloves is advised. Avoiding alcohol-based hand sanitisers before touching receipts and supporting businesses that use BPS-free alternatives are also suggested as preventive steps. CEH urges regulatory action The CEH has called on regulatory bodies to update chemical safety regulations and enforce clearer labelling for products containing harmful bisphenols. The organisation stated that relying on chemical substitutions without thorough health evaluations could lead to ongoing risks. It has also encouraged consumers to be aware of the presence of such substances in everyday products and to push for safer commercial practices. Full list of companies facing CEH legal action for BPS in receipts Ace Hardware Dutch Bros Petco Aesop Exxon Petsmart Alliance Thermal Paper Famous Footwear PF Chang's Amazon Fresh FedEx Office & Print Phillips 66 (76) AMC Five Guys Pizza Hut Applebee's Foot Locker Pressed Autozone Forever 21 Raising Cane's Baskin Robbins GameStop Red Robin Burger King Gap Outlet Red Lobster Burlington Habit Burger Ross Capital One Harbor Freight Saks Off 5th Carl's Jr Hot Dog on a Stick Shake Shack Cardenas IHOP Shell Smart & Final Champs Jack in the Box Sonic Chanel JCPenney Spencer's Chili's JPMorgan Chase Staples Church's KFC Subway Cinnabon Kroger (Foods Co) Taco Bell Claire's Lids Tractor Supply Coldstone Little Caesars The Cheesecake Factory Converse Lowe's ULTA Crumbl McDonald's Corporation Victoria's Secret Daiso MOD Pizza Walmart Del Taco Nordstrom Rack Wetzel's Pretzels Denny's Office Depot Wells Fargo Dick's Sporting Goods Olive Garden Williams Sonoma Dollar General Papa John's Yard House Dollar Tree Papa Murphy's Domino's Peet's Coffee & Tea
NDTV
04-08-2025
- Health
- NDTV
Shopping Bills, Receipts Have Toxic Chemicals That Can Get Absorbed In Skin
Shopping bills, restaurant receipts, and ATM slips might contain highly toxic chemical, Bisphenol S (BPS), that can get absorbed into skin within seconds. BPS is a hormone-disrupting chemical that mimics estrogen and can disrupt normal functions of the body, including metabolism, growth and development. It's a lesser-known cousin to Bisphenol A (BPA). BPS has been linked to hormone disruption, cognitive damage, decreased sperm count, breast cancer and other health issues. Social media platforms, such as Instagram, TikTok and X, are overflowing with viral claims that thermal paper receipts are linked to health issues. According to a study, these claims could be true. The study published in 2021 found that exposure to bisphenol A (BPA) is considered to be associated with the increased incidence of breast cancer. Notably, the chemicals are added as a coating to thermal paper to help ink develop. Recently, the Center for Environmental Health (CEH) sent violation notices to about 50 major retailers in the United States. The non-profit group alerted the companies, including Burger King, Chanel, and Dollar General, about the high limits for BPS. Touching a receipt with BPS for a few seconds might result in exposure above the safe harbour level, requiring a clear warning to those companies who use it. The issue has made store workers and frequent receipt handlers at higher risk. Researcher Dr Leonardo Trasande, a professor of paediatrics and environmental health researcher at NYU Langone, recently told Business Insider that harmful chemicals sneak into our lives from unexpected places. "We don't think of thermal paper receipts as plastic, but that shiny coating is a polymer on top." Bisphenol is a class of chemicals used in a wide range of consumer products, including food packaging, fabrics, toys and cookware. Many companies have ditched BPA's use, replacing it with BPA-free material. However, recent research has found that BPS, which is often used as an alternative to BPA, is also toxic. How to mitigate the problem? Experts have urged to decline printed receipts when possible or opt for digital receipts. The store workers should wear gloves when handling receipts, or avoid using alcohol-based hand cleaners before handling receipts. And also, advocate for safer alternatives and support companies that use BPS-free receipt paper.
