Chemicals found in detergents, shampoos can cause birth defects: Study
A new study has revealed that
parents’ who are exposed to chemicals found in detergents, shampoos and
conditioners may be associated with birth defects in children. The study was conducted
on both mice and rats and found that the chemicals, known as quaternary
ammonium compounds or “quats”, can lead to birth defects of the brain, spine or
spinal cord.
Terry Hrubec, Associate Professor at
the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine (VCOM) in Virginia, US said,
“These chemicals are regularly used in the home, hospitals, public spaces and
swimming pools.” Hrubec added,“Birth defects were seen when both males and
females were exposed, as well as when only one parent was exposed.”
For the study, the team investigated
the effect of two commonly used quats - alkyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride
and didecyl dimethyl ammonium chloride. These are often listed on ingredient
lists as ADBAC and DDAC respectively, and are valued for their antimicrobial
and antistatic properties, as well as their ability to lower surface tension.
These are used as common ingredients
in cleaners and disinfectants, hand wipes, food preservatives, swimming pool
treatments, laundry products, shampoos, conditioners, eye drops and other
personal care products.
Exposure to these chemicals also
resulted in birth defects same as the defects as found in humans—spina bifida
and anencephaly.
In addition, mice and rats did not
even need to be dosed with the chemicals to see the effect, but simply using
quat-based cleaners in the same room as the mice was enough to cause birth
defects. Hrubec noted,“We also observed increased birth defects in rodents for
two generations after stopping exposure.” Researchers said, the study was
conducted on mice and rats, but these chemicals may be toxic to humans as well.
The study is detailed in the journal
Birth Defects Research.
20.06.2017
Never build your emotional life
on the weaknesses of others
George Santayana
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