The University of California at Berkeley found that California children have SEVEN TIMES more flame-retardant cells in their blood when compared to Mexican children.
The study focused on chemicals called "PBDEs," flame-fighting substances that saturate the stuffing of millions of couches. In 2006, the chemicals were banned in California; however, the state continues to follow "technical bulletin 117" which requires couch makers to pour ample chemicals into every couch.
The results showed that California children had far higher levels of the flame-fighting chemicals in their blood as a likely result of absorption of household dust through the skin, breast milk, and hand-to-mouth contact.
PBDE has been linked to a number of reproductive problems, including lower sperm count in men. The chemical is also linked to altered thyroid levels in adults, infants, and felines. As items like couches and other upholstered furniture age, the flame-retardant chemicals tend to migrate into household dust, leading to human ingestion. The chemicals have also been detected in the air and food items.
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