CNN —Flame retardants added for decades to thousands of consumer products in the United States may raise the risk of dying from cancer, according to new research.
“The new study links PBDEs to deaths from cancer, building a case for the association between flame retardants and cancer mortality being real,” said Trasande, who researches the impact of plastics, flame retardants and other chemicals on children.
Flame retardant chemicals also can pass to developing fetuses via the placenta and to newborns through breast milk, past research has found.
In some cases, the industry has replaced these chemicals with newer phosphorus-based flame retardants, Trasande said, adding that researchers are now concerned these chemicals may be linked to cancer as well.
When reupholstering older couches or chairs, be sure to replace the old foam with flame retardant-free foam.
Persons:
Leonardo Trasande, ”, Trasande, ” Trasande, Tasha Stoiber, EWG
Organizations:
CNN, National Health, JAMA, NYU Langone Health, US Centers for Disease Control, Manufacturers, US Environmental Protection Agency, CDC, Environmental
Locations:
United States, PBDEs, New York City