Our mission

The mission of the Hoffman Program on Chemicals and Health is to advance the understanding of environmental and chemical intolerance in people and to reduce the risk of contaminant exposures.

The Hoffman Program was founded in 2014 with a generous bequest from Ms. Marilyn B. Hoffman. It is dedicated to the study of chemical and particle exposures and their subsequent human health effects. We focus on environmental and chemical intolerance, commonly known as multiple chemical sensitivities (MCS*), also known as toxic-induced loss of tolerance (TILT), or DELTA.  This last term, DELTA, emphasizes the ways in which earlier exposures alter responses to subsequent exposures.

In order to successfully accomplish our mission in the past, the Hoffman Program had provided:

  • A Pilot Grant Program to fund research related to MCS/TILT/DELTA between 2015 and 2019
  • Research collaboration opportunities. Seminar series, workshops, and lectures, featuring leading scientists in the field. (Find more about it in our archive page)
  • Strategies for mitigating and preventing these syndromes, providing guidance for individuals afflicted with MCS and professionals (e.g., physicians, architects, and others) to better manage chemicals and potentially harmful exposures in the environment. (Learn more here)

*Multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) is a condition in which an individual experiences a range of symptoms in response to exposure to low levels of common chemicals, such as those found in cleaning products, personal care items, petroleum vapors and building materials. These symptoms can include headaches, dizziness, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and respiratory, gastrointestinal, and skin problems. The symptoms can occur immediately upon exposure or may be delayed, and they can range from mild to debilitating. The cause of MCS is not fully understood, and the condition is controversial and not recognized as a formal medical diagnosis by all healthcare professionals. However, it is a real and disabling condition for many individuals who suffer from it.

Pilot Grants

The Hoffman Program promotes scientific understanding and public awareness of chemical exposures. Find here our previously funded researchers and pilot projects.

Translational Science

An integral part of our program’s mission is to catalyze the adoption of commercially available solutions proven to diminish the burden of toxic chemical exposures. Find here our work in the field of translating science into actions, and other funded activities.

Other Research Initiatives

Our Program have supported research with the aim of advancing the understanding of the health consequences of chemicals and other toxins in the environment. Find here our prior research initiatives.