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A new study commissioned by the WWF and Greenpeace reveals that alarming levels of chemicals commonly found in personal care products in baby’s umbilical cords, providing more clout for campaigners aiming to clamp down on potential causes of toxicity.
The results for the study, which was carried out at the University Hospital Groningen in the Netherlands using volunteers, are published under the title A Present For Life. It reveals that a variety of chemicals, mainly from the phthalates family and used in every day cosmetics ranging from toothpaste to deodorants, can enter unborn babies through the umbilical cord.
The study, which took into count a total of 35 different chemicals, also considered a variety of other commonly used consumer goods, ranging from household cleaners, plastic packaging and those with water-proof coatings.
Tests taken from the umbilical cords of nearly 27 new-born babies and from more than 42 new mothers were analysed from the presence of eight groups of chemicals, which also included artificial musks.
The research showed that all umbilical cords contained a minimum of five of the 35 chemicals tested, with some containing as many as 14. Two of the mother's tested positive for 17 of the 35 chemicals in their blood.
As well pointing out the possible gender-bending affects of some of the chemicals, the report highlights the effects they can have on children's brain development and intelligence.
Both Greenpeace and WWFare calling on legislators to put public interest first when it comes to the legislation surrounding these chemicals. Currently European legislation for chemicals in consumer products is being reshaped through the REACH programme, which aims to provide greater protection, both to humans and the environment.
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