"Scientists Call for Limits on Stain- And Water-Proofing Chemicals"

"More than 200 scientists outline potential health concerns from fluorinated chemicals, urge replacements and tightened regulations "

"Chemicals used to make products waterproof and stain resistant are persistent, pervasive, potentially harmful to humans, and should be regulated and largely replaced, according a statement signed by more than 200 scientists.

The “Madrid Statement” was authored by 14 scientists and signed by 208 more from 38 countries around the world representing a variety of scientific disciplines. The statement was issued amid growing concern that exposure to highly fluorinated chemicals — found everywhere, including in people — is linked to certain cancers, hormone disruption, brain and liver problems and lower birth weights.

“We call on the international community to cooperate in limiting the production and use of PFASs [poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances] and in developing safer non-fluorinated alternatives,” says the statement published in today’s Environmental Health Perspectives journal."

Brian Bienkowski reports for Environmental Health News May 1,2015.

SEE ALSO:

"The Madrid Statement on Poly- and Perfluoroalkyl Substances (PFASs)" (Environmental Health Perspectives)

"Scientists Issue Warning Over Chemicals Common In Carpets, Coats, Cookware" (Huffington Post)