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:

*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. MCS is a complex condition and the underlying mechanisms that give rise to MCS are not fully understood.  MCS is 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.

Publications

Find her all the peer-reviewed publications from research supported and funded by our program

Explore the impactful achievements of The Green Science Policy

We’re thrilled to share that New Zealand has taken a groundbreaking step by banning PFAS “forever chemicals” in cosmetics from 2026, setting a global standard. This milestone follows The Green Science Policy 2021 study, which uncovered PFAS in various makeup products, sparking a movement towards eliminating these harmful substances from personal care items. Furthermore, their advocacy has played a vital role in preventing hazardous chemicals in furniture, baby products, carpets, and food packaging. Recently, their efforts led to the US EPA proposing to designate nine PFAS as “hazardous constituents,” signaling progress towards safer environmental practices. Additionally, the persistent advocacy for flame retardant-free furniture has resulted in healthier options across the US and Canada, thanks to California’s 2013 standard change.
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Pilot Grants

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