Report links cleaning agents to disorders

HARRISBURG, PA – Cleaning compounds and pesticides are among the chemicals listed in a report linked to developmental disabilities, including behavioural and learning disabilities.

The Clean Water Fund and Physicians for Social Responsibility released May 11 “In Harms W,” a study of lead, mercury, cadmium, and manganese; pesticides; dioxins and PCBs; solvents used in gasoline, glues and cleaning solutions; and nicotine and alcohol.

The report found that one million children in the United States now exceed the accepted level above which lead affects behaviour and cognition. The report also found that over 80 percent of adults and 90 percent of children in the United States have residues of one or more harmful pesticides in their bodies.

“it is critical that we understand and, as a matter of public policy, address the impactof these neurotoxic chemicals on developmental and learning disabilities,” says Dr. Ted Schettler, a practicing physician and one of the report’s co-authors. “The urgency of this issue is underscored by the dact that between 5 percent and 10 percent of school children in America have learning disabilities, and at least an equivalent amount have ADHD,” (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder).

The concerns raised by this report suggest the need for a new precautionary approach that protects the health of future generations by reducing exposure to these neurotoxicants, says Robert Wendelgaa, Pennsylvania director of Clean Water Fund.

One place we can start is by passing state legislation that would reduce the use of pesticides in our schools, making sure that the school environment doesn’t put our children in harm’s way.”

Copyright 2000 National Tradre Publications, Inc.