Scientists have reported that they have found 6 different kinds of toxic flame retardants in Americans. The scientists had taken urine samples from California residents and found that it contained appreciable amounts of flame retardants known as phosphates, and one — tris-(2-chloroethyl) phosphate (TCEP).
TCEP is a known carcinogen or a substance which can cause cancer in humans. Additionally it could also affect the nervous and reproductive system of humans. The chemical was found in 75% of the people who were tested. The flame retardant is used extensively in polyurethane foam, plastics, polyester resins and textiles.
TDCIPP or chlorinated tris, which is similar to TCEP has been detected in nearly every study participant. It is another carcinogen and its presence is really surprising because TDCIPP has been phased out of use in kid’s pajamas in the 1970’s.
Study author Robin Dodson, a scientist with the Silent Spring Institute, said in a news release from the nonprofit research group, “We found that several toxic flame retardants are in people’s bodies. When you sit on your couch, you want to relax, not get exposed to chemicals that may cause cancer. Some flame retardants have been targeted for phase out, but unfortunately there are others that have largely been under the radar.”
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