Chemical-laden indoor dust may interfere with sexual development, reproduction
Indoor dust mimics sex hormones such as estrogen and testosterone in human cells, according to a new study from Harvard Chan School. The dust contains a stew of dozens of chemicals that migrate out of furnishings and that…
Exploring how ‘forever chemicals’ may harm immune function
Mounting evidence suggests that widely used chemicals called per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) interfere with immune system function. Experts are concerned that exposure to these chemicals could diminish the immune system’s ability to fight a host of infectious…
Firefighters’ protective clothing may contain toxic chemicals
The clothing that firefighters wear to protect themselves from fire and other hazards may contain toxic compounds called perfluoroalkyl substances, or PFASs, according to a new study.
Pregnant women, babies at risk from everyday chemicals
Evidence suggests that per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), a family of industrial chemicals used in a wide range of everyday products, may harm pregnant mothers and their babies.
The dangers of ‘secret’ chemicals
Chemicals such as perfluorinated substances (PFASs) and certain pesticides are among the most dangerous to human health because people have been unwittingly exposed to them for years, according to an expert from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public…
New tests find widespread PFAS drinking water contamination
Drinking water in dozens of cities across the U.S. is contaminated with toxic chemicals called per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), according to a new study, and the contamination appears to be more widespread than previously thought. The Environmental…