OT: Absorption of chemicals raises concern

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>Absorption of chemicals raises concern

>

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> Saturday, 2 September 2000

> Absorption of chemicals raises concern

> THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

>

> WASHINGTON - Government scientists have discovered that people's

>bodies absorb questionable chemicals used in such everyday products as

>fingernail polish - some, particularly in young women, at levels that raise

>questions about possible health effects.

>

> At issue are chemicals called phthalates. Animal studies suggest

>large amounts of certain phthalates may disrupt normal hormone function and

>cause birth defects.

>

> The chemicals, pronounced " tha-lates, " are found in numerous

>products: plastic toys, medical equipment, food packaging, cosmetics,

>varnishes, adhesives. But it was uncertain how much people absorbed.

>

> Researchers at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention tested

>urine from 289 adults. The body levels of three chemicals used in cosmetics

>and solvents were higher than anticipated - in some cases, higher than

>other well-studied pollutants such as PCBs.

>

>

> On the Net:

> * For the CDC study, ehis.niehs.nih.gov

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