Rise in Childhood Cancers Parallels Toxic Chemical Proliferation
Wednesday, February 2, 2011 at 03:56PM Last year the President's Cancer Panel report provided confirmation that exposure to toxic chemicals is an important and under-recognized risk factor for cancer, and recommended that the government take immediate action to reverse this trend. The Panel advised Congress to reform the Toxic Substances Control Act, commenting that this law is "the most egregious example of ineffective regulation of chemical contaminants" and noting that weaknesses in the law have constrained the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency from being able to properly regulate known and suspected carcinogens...
..."There are so many possible multiple sources of exposure," she said, "baby products, bath products, household products. Lindane is used to treat lice, parents put it on their childrens' heads. Do they know it causes cancer?"
In 2009, nine chemicals, including lindane, were added to a list of toxic substances that are to be eliminated under the Stockholm Convention, an international treaty.
"In Europe, the burden of proof of safety lies with the chemical companies, said Brouwer, "while here the company's right to make a profit is paramount."
New types of tumors are emerging due to exposure to new chemicals, Brouwer said. "Most people believe the government regulates chemicals, but it doesn't," she said, urging Congress to quickly reform the Toxic Substances Control Act.
Read the full article at the enviroment News Service
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