The results prompt worries about potential health hazards associated with these commonly used bandages.
The term “forever chemicals” refers to PFAS chemicals because of their extraordinary persistence over thousands of years.
According to a new study, many bandages include chemicals known as polyfluorinated compounds, or PFAS, which are connected to health issues and do not decompose in the environment.
About 40 bandages from 18 different brands were evaluated as part of the Mamavation and Environment and Health News study, and 26 of them—including well-known ones like Band-Aid and Curad—had detectable amounts of PFAS.
In depth
The results prompt worries regarding potential health hazards associated with these commonly used bandages. According to studies, these PFAS may impair our immune systems capacity to fight off illnesses and reduce the efficacy of immunisations.
They may also have an impact on a child’s learning and development and even cause problems with conception. Even connections to some malignancies, hormone issues, and other health issues have been suggested by some study.
It’s alarming to learn about the new Mamavation and EHN.org study. There was measurable organic fluorine in around 26 bandages tested lately, ranging from 11 ppm to 239 ppm.
Take away
Linda S. Birnbaum, a scientist emeritus and former head of the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, expressed worry over the discovery that bandages placed over open wounds may expose adults and children to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).
Since the PFAS are extremely resistant to deterioration and can linger inside the human body, they are also known as “forever chemicals.” They have the capacity to harm us and can accumulate inside of us for years.
Mamavation claims that because bandages are waterproof, PFAS chemicals are utilised in their production. These substances have been connected to a number of health issues, including testing for cancer and issues with growth, obesity, and reproduction.
