Can Bandages Cause Cancer? Study Finds Presence Of Toxic Chemicals In Popular Brands
We are all used to wrapping bandages around minor wounds as they offer protection from infection and also help in the healing process. But what if these small strips can cause more harm than good?
A new study has found the presence of PFAS or ¡°forever chemicals¡± in bandages from well-known brands.
What the study found
The study by environmental health and consumer watchdogs, Mamavation and Environmental Health News found the presence of a chemical, organic fluorine, a key indicator of per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in some of the most popular bandages.
The study found that 65% of total bandages tested had indications of PFAS ¡°forever chemicals.¡± 26 detections out of 40 bandages tested had organic fluorine above 10 parts per million (ppm).
Why presence of PFAS in bandages are concerning
¡°Because bandages are placed upon open wounds, it¡¯s troubling to learn that they may be also exposing children and adults to PFAS. It¡¯s obvious from the data that PFAS are not needed for wound care, so it¡¯s important that the industry remove their presence to protect the public from PFAS and opt instead for PFAS-free materials," toxicologist Linda Birnbaum said.
What are PFAS
PFAS are per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances that have been used for many decades as stain-resistant, oil-resistant, grease-resistant, and water-resistant chemicals in commerce. The study suspects that some brands in the bandage industry are using PFAS for their waterproof qualities.
PFAS were first created to resist stains, heat, oil, water, and grease and then they were used in products like food packaging, adhesives, and non-stick cookware.
Health risks of?PFAS
They are termed forever chemicals due to their resistance to degeneration and this can stay in the human body for years.
They have been linked to several health complications from reproduction-related problems, growth, obesity disorders, and even some forms of cancer.?
The health effects of exposure to PFAS on open wounds are unknown, but this would be a unique way for them to easily get into our bodies.
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