Incontinence pads are medical devices that have the function of absorbing and retaining the urine and stools of people with incontinence while keeping their skin healthy and dry. Since the 1980s, the incontinence market has grown considerably, due in particular to the increase in the number of dependent people. The Directorate-General for Health and the Directorate-General for Competition, Consumer Affairs and Fraud Control have therefore approached ANSES to assess the safety of these protections in terms of allergy risks, ‘infections or intolerance, and chemical risks, by skin contact or by contact with mucous membranes.
“Long-term wearing can lead to a health risk”
ANSES has just published its risk assessment report. It notes the presence of various dangerous chemical substances (dioxins, furans and PCB-DL and formaldehyde) which could come from the contamination of the raw materials or the manufacturing processes used. These substances can in particular migrate in the urine and come into contact with the skin for a long time. It does not cause a problem as long as the skin remains healthy. But in case of prolonged use (lasting more than one year continuously) or skin lesions of the seat, this “can cause a health risk for the populations” underlines the ANSES.
Protections against incontinence: ANSES recommendations
ANSES therefore recommends that the manufacturers of these incontinence protectors:
- To eliminate the use of all perfuming substances in the composition of their products, in priority those exhibiting irritant and sensitizing effects on the skin.
- Better control the origin of natural raw materials that can be contaminated, even before manufacturing. And to improve manufacturing processes, as has been requested for baby diapers or hygienic protections.
- Better document the nature of the raw materials composing these products and display them on packaging in order to inform users
It also recommends that caregivers ensure compliance with good use practices with frequent changes and cleaning and drying of the skin, in order to minimize the risk of skin damage at the seat.
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