September 4, 2019
According to a study by the French public health agency published Tuesday, September 3, 2019, six pollutants are present in the body of all French people.
Hormone disruptors
The health agency analyzed 70 biomarkers to measure the presence of pollutants in the human body. These pollutants are hormone disruptors or potential carcinogens. The results showed that six pollutants, bisphenols, phthalates, parabens, glycol ethers, brominated flame retardants and perfluorinated compounds are present in the body of all French people.
The study also shows that the levels of impregnation are higher in children than in adults. This is because children often put toys in their mouths or by transfer, touching these objects and then bringing their hands to their mouths.
Cosmetics in the crosshairs
The study notes that cosmetics and beauty treatments significantly increase impregnation levels. Parabens and glycol ethers are the main pollutants associated with these products.
The researchers found that the more ventilated the housing, the lower the impregnation levels. It is therefore recommended to ventilate the house in order to reduce the impact of these pollutants. The study is the first part of a major biomonitoring survey conducted by Public Health France. Other sections will soon follow on metals and pesticides.
Stephanie Haerts
Read also: Cosmetics: the 5 types of beauty products to avoid
