From President Obama's Cancer Panel Report (National Cancer Institute, NIH, HHS)

The Panel was particularly concerned to find that the true burden of environmentally induced cancer has been grossly underestimated. With nearly 80,000 chemicals on the market in the United States, many of which are used by millions of Americans in their daily lives and are un- or understudied and largely unregulated, exposure to potential environmental carcinogens is widespread. One such ubiquitous chemical, bisphenol A (BPA), is still found in many consumer products and remains unregulated in the United States, despite the growing link between BPA and several diseases, including various cancers.

Phthalates Defined

Defined: Phthalates, called “plasticizers,” are a group of industrial chemicals found in, among other things, toys, food packaging, hoses, raincoats, shower curtains, vinyl flooring, wall coverings, lubricants, adhesives, detergents, nail polish, hair spray and shampoo. Phthalates have been found to disrupt the endocrine system. Several phthalate compounds have caused reduced and some sperm counts, testicular atrophy and structural abnormalities in the reproductive systems of male test animals,studies also link phthalates to liver cancer.

In July 2008, as a result of pressure from EWG and other health groups, the U.S. Congress passed legislation banning six phthalates from children’s toys and cosmetics. Legislators in Washington, Vermont and California have restricted phthalate use in children’s goods, and several major retailers, including Wal-Mart, Toys-R-Us, Lego, Evenflo and Gerber say they will phase out phthalate-laden toys.
Source: Environmental Working Group

BPA linked to Ashtma!

The case against BPA continues to grow as researchers sharpen their focus. Check out the article in the LA Times Online on February 4th. Type in BPA and Childhood asthma and you should be able to find the article that explains that researchers in Texas have found a link between BPA and Asthma. You may also be able to find the actual research in the February issue of Environmental Health Perspectives

What is EA and why should I care?

Almost all existing plastics – as well as silicones, rubbers, and papers – release chemicals with estrogenic activity (EA). This includes most products packaged in plastic containers.read more

Baby Eczema Treatment & Prevention

Lately it seems that there are more babies with eczema than without it. After babies arrive, perfectly soft in their “birthday suit,” their skin seems to become irritated and uncomfortable to live in. That’s when baby eczema treatment becomes necessary. Why does this happen? read more

Chemicals to Avoid in Hair and Skin Care Products

Your skin was designed to protect you by providing you with a natural protective oil layer. When this natural layer is removed by harsh chemicals, which are often used as hair and skin care ingredients, we become more exposed and susceptible to skin irritation and disease. read more

5 Reasons to Buy Organic Skin Care from Ilumina Organics

Top Reasons to Buy Organic Skin Care from Ilumina Organics, plus FAQ about organic skin care, what chemicals to avoid, and what ingredients to look for. read more