A recent study has revealed that the popular Band-Aid brand, along with other bandage brands, including Curad, have been found to contain chemicals that are associated with cancer when they come into direct contact with open wounds. The study examined 40 different bandages from 18 brands and discovered detectable levels of these harmful chemicals in 26 of them.
Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAs), commonly referred to as forever chemicals, have been associated with elevated cancer risks such as kidney, prostate, and breast cancer, as well as reduced immune system function and vaccine efficacy, developmental challenges in infants and children, decreased fertility, hormonal imbalances, specific types of cancer, and various other health impacts.
Dr. Linda S. Birnbaum, the co-author of the study and former director of the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences and National Toxicology Program, has expressed her concern regarding the use of bandages on open wounds. It is troubling to discover that bandages may expose both children and adults to PFAS. The data clearly indicates that PFAS are unnecessary for wound care. Therefore, it is crucial for the industry to eliminate their presence and instead opt for PFAS-free materials in order to protect the public from PFAS.
The Problem With PFAS
PFAS chemicals, also known as “forever chemicals”, are highly durable and can persist for thousands of years. It has been found that every American who has been tested carries traces of PFAS in their bloodstream. This poses a significant concern as even minimal exposure to PFAS can elevate the likelihood of various health issues such as kidney and testicular cancer, liver complications, high cholesterol levels, and weakened immune system.
PFAS chemicals belong to a category of substances utilized for rendering products resistant to grease, water, sticking, and stains. They are added to:
- Food Packaging: pizza boxes, food wrappers, take out containers, microwave popcorn bags, disposable trays, and bakery bags
- Artificial turf
- Non-stick pans (Teflon)
- Personal care products such as dental floss, mascara, foundation, menstrual pads
- Medical equipment
- Building products
- Firefighting foam
- Carpets, rugs, furniture textiles,
- Car seats
- Stain-proof and waterproof clothing
- Outdoor gear
- Umbrellas
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