Pregnant women at risk due to exposure to chemicals

Nearly all pregnant women are exposed to chemicals from plastics, cleaning products, clothing and other household items that scientists say can put them at higher risk of developing cancer and harm their baby’s development.

Researchers at the University of California, San Francisco examined 171 pregnant women and found that nearly all had melamine and its by-product cyanuric acid, which can come from pots, plastics and pesticides.

The vast majority were also exposed to aromatic amines, which are commonly leached into the environment from clothing dyes and pigments.

Dr. Tracey Woodruff, the gynecologist who led the study, said the presence of the chemicals was a “major concern,” adding to DailyMail.com that they could have a worse effect if mixed together.

The chemicals are ubiquitous, but Woodruff believes exposure can be reduced by buying fewer plastic-wrapped fruits and vegetables.

Scientists propose a new designation for chemicals under the 1980 Act on the removal of hazardous materials from the environment. Under the new designation, special regulatory agencies will receive more funds to track and clean up chemicals in rivers, lakes and groundwater.

Unknown chemicals are often found on non-stick cookware, waterproof clothing, and in tap water and shampoo. More studies have emerged in recent months that show that exposure to chemicals can lead to liver cancer, birth defects, and longer-term health problems.

Melamine is of particular concern after being linked to the deaths of six babies in 2008. It is widely used in plastics, meaning it is already becoming ubiquitous as it breaks down into microplastics in the environment. There are concerns that the chemical, when placed in a microwave oven, will react with the waves. Therefore, scientists advise using microwaved food only in those containers that say “suitable for a microwave oven.”

Melanin was also previously added to milk to increase the protein content, but 300,000 people ended up with severe kidney problems.

More work is needed to determine the risks associated with cyanuric acid, which is present in some pesticides and in swimming pools to extend the life of chlorine.

Scientists are currently monitoring 5,000 pregnant women to see if they were also exposed to the chemicals, and in what amounts. Results are expected early next year.

Christina DENISYUK.

Photo: PA