No matter how much scientists and lawmakers try to protect us, sometimes, it just feels you cannot win in the war against toxic chemicals. I learned that, earlier this month, researchers at the University of California, San Francisco published a report which found that virtually all pregnant women in the United States were carrying multiple harmful chemicals - including some banned for public use since the 1970s.

Among the chemicals found in at least 99 percent of the test group were pesticides, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), which are now banned compounds that were used as flame retardants. In addition, 96 percent of the 268 pregnant women tested positive for bisphenol A (BPA), a controversial compound that makes plastic, like food containers and water bottles, clear. According to researchers, prenatal exposure to BPA can have adverse effects on brain development and increase susceptibility to cancer later in life.

Tracey Woodruff, director of the UCSF Program on Reproductive Health and the Environment and the lead author of the study, said it was "surprising and concerning" to find all these chemicals in pregnant women, especially since all the implications are not known.

The San Francisco Chronicle noted that it is impossible to completely avoid exposure to dangerous chemicals, but offered some suggestions from health experts on ways to reduce it:

• Eat a well-balanced diet, wash hands often and don't smoke.

• Avoid microwaving food in plastic - use ceramic or glass instead.

• Keep a clean home to keep out toxic chemicals found in dust and dirt.

• Choose wisely when buying products, like paints, cleaning supplies, cookware and beauty products - look for safer, nontoxic alternatives.

At First 5 LA, we have made prenatal education a priority in line with our Strategic Plan goal that all children in Los Angeles County are born healthy. Any measure that can keep babies viable and healthy should be taken.

Evelyn V. Martinez

Chief Executive Officer
First 5 LA

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