Chemical Exposure News
Cancer agent found in cosmetics
Many products in the cosmetics industry contain common petroleum-based ingredients such as 1,4-dioxane, which has been linked to cancer. This chemical, which easily penetrates the skin, is classified by the Environmental Protection Agency as a probable human carcinogen. It can be easily removed from ingredients during manufacture, but tests by the Environmental Working Group show that this seldom happens, which leaves consumers at risk for a variety of health problems.
Chemical exposure and children being studied in Florida
Government researchers, along with the American Chemistry Council, have begun a project to determine how children are exposed to pesticides and other chemicals in their homes. The chemicals being measured include pesticides, flame retardants and perfluorinated chemicals.
Link established between cigarette smoking and AML
A report by the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society links cigarette smoking with acute myelogenous leukemia. The report, “The Health Consequences of Smoking: A Report of the Surgeon General,” was released today.
Toxic air in SW Indy creating health issues
The southwest corner of Indianapolis features a smattering of working-class neighborhoods surrounded by factories where aircraft engines, automobile parts, medicine and chemicals are made. People there may pay a price for living in Marion County's industrial hub. An investigation by the Indianapolis Star found some troubling statistics.
ExxonMobil settles hazardous waste case for $11.2M
One of the United States’ biggest hazardous waste cases has been settled, with ExxonMobil agreeing to pay $11.2 million. The case, filed in 1996, charged the company with mismanaging benzene-contaminated wastes at Port Mobil, a major storage and distribution terminal on Staten Island, New York.