A New England Journal of Medicine article warns that weak U.S. chemical regulations have failed to protect children from exposure to harmful synthetic chemicals, contributing to rising rates of childhood cancers, asthma and obesity.
Jim Morris reports for Public Health Watch.
In short:
- Over 350,000 synthetic chemicals are produced globally, with limited regulatory oversight; only a fraction has been tested for safety.
- The Toxic Substances Control Act places the burden of proof on the government to show harm rather than requiring manufacturers to demonstrate safety.
- Experts call for reforms, including independent testing, chemical footprint tracking and safer production practices.
Key quote:
“We give manufactured chemicals more rights than we give criminal defendants.”
— Dr. Philip Landrigan, Boston College
Why this matters:
The widespread use of untested chemicals raises concerns about long-term health impacts, especially in vulnerable populations like children. Stronger regulatory systems could prevent future health crises linked to environmental exposures.
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