Journal of Applied Toxicology published a study on January 12, 2012 finding 99 percent of breast tissue samples from post-mastectomy contained parabens. Tissue was collected in England from 40 patients with primary breast cancer between 2005 and 2008.

Read full study here! Read excerpt from study here!

ARTICLE RESOURCES:

Parabens Seen in Almost All Breast Mastectomy Samples. MDNews.com. January 12, 2012.

Measurement of paraben concentrations in human breast tissue at serial locations across the breast from axilla to sternum. Journal of AppliedToxicology. L. Barr, G. Metaxas, C.A.J. Harbach, L.A. Savoy, P.D. Darbre. Wiley Online Library. January 12 2012.

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Read full story here!

Fabric softeners contain toxic chemicals. Selena Keegan. NaturalNews.com. January 11, 2012.

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Toxic Chemicals in Fragranced Laundry Products and Health Effects

Just before Christmas, my brother passed away, so we needed to go to Grand Junction. From several previous failed attempts to find a place to stay anywhere in the area, we were quite scared to try again, but it was imperative that we find a place to stay.

We certainly did not need a hotel as fancy as the Colorado Wine Country Inn, but had exhausted all of the other options and chains. When I called the manager of this hotel (Jerome) and went through my very lengthy list of qualifications (no smoking, no air fresheners, no sprays, room can’t be near laundry, exhaust or outside smoking, etc), he didn’t even blink an eye. He was happy to answer my questions. Once we decided to make a reservation, he didn’t mind cleaning our room and linens in baking soda and vinegar!

The trip there was nerve-wracking as we had to go and we couldn’t just sleep in the car! We also had my mother with us who is battling lung cancer. When we arrived, my husband went in to check out the room and soon waved us in! We were greeted at the door by Joe and found our room to be fabulous!! The room was clean and comfortable and they had a very nice condolence card for our family signed by the staff.

Another great thing I would like to report is that the chefs were well versed in gluten sensitivities and were also able to accommodate our other food allergies.

HOWEVER! Although the room was absolutely fantastic, I do have to share the negatives and warnings about the things we did encounter for others who live with chemical sensitivities, toxic injury, asthma, allergies, etc.

1) They do have an automatic air freshener in the public restrooms off of the lobby (but none in the lobby, halls or rooms). They will be receiving a nice letter from my husband with information about the chemicals in these units, along with several alternatives based on the information found in this website, the Cleaner Indoor Air Campaign.

2) Even though they use a low chlorine type hot-tub, a slight to moderate chlorine smell is in the lobby and lower levels.

3) The neighbors in the winter use wood and pellet stoves; we did not detect this from inside the room, but could when going outside or opening the windows when it was cold outside.

4) This in is in the middle of vineyards, in which pesticides are used in the spring and summer (we went in the winter).

Even with these hurdles, we were able to secure ourselves in the room and get a good night sleep. None of the other hotels my husband tried stepping into in the area were even a slight possibility.

We cannon thank the Colorado Wine Country Inn enough for taking such great care of us!!

WARNING: I can’t guarantee how your experience will be at this hotel or any other. Please try ay hotel at your own risk after calling to ensure they do not use what you cannot tolerate, asking them to make accommodations and having a back-up plan in case it doesn’t work out! We went through all of the proper steps last summer, but still could not tolerate the room whatsoever.

TIDBITS: Nearly 38% of the population reports some sort of adverse health effect from chemicals in fragrances. Approximately 15% or more knowingly live with chemical sensitivities; it is suspected that many more do as well, but do not make the connection between their symptoms and the source. According to a 2010 study, of the 133 VOCs found in 25 everyday products, “24 are classified as toxic or hazardous under U.S. federal laws and each product emitted at least one of these compounds” (2010 Anne Steinemann, Ph.D).

Visit the Cleaner Indoor Air Campaign for more information about chemicals, fragrances and chemical sensitivities:  (a campaign of the Invisible Disabilities Association).

We vacuumed and wiped them with white vinegar.

Within a couple of weeks we noticed that our symptoms increased when we rode in our 9-passenger Suburban. My worry about cross-contamination increased as well.

In the end we discovered we hadn’t cross-contaminated. According to testing performed later, the cars were clean. But our symptoms were heightened when riding in the Suburban. We simply had to replace it. Most people could tolerate the car just fine, so 6 weeks after we left our home we traded it for a used Honda Odyssey with leather seats. That car felt better. Our headaches and congestion improved. We kept our second car, a Honda CR-V, and tried to use it as little as possible.

In December 2008, I traveled to Arizona with several of our children. Slowly the rest of the family followed. Our three oldest daughters relocated, then our high school senior, Ryan. Four vehicles came with them.

We noticed adverse reactions when riding in any of our old cars. Our multiple chemical sensitivity kicked in shortly after vacating our home. Therefore, any air fresheners or chemicals previously used were no longer tolerated.

We found ways to cope with our older vehicles. Regular HEPA vacuuming helped, and so did wiping down the inside with *tea tree oil and other essential oils. Changing cabin filters might have helped. Here’s what one allergy-friendly website says about cabin filters:

What is a car cabin air filter?

Many car owners don’t even realize that such a part exists in their vehicles, much less if it ever needs to be changed. But, no matter if they know it or not, a cabin air filter is an essential part of your car’s ventilation system that removes pollutants from the air before they get inside the passenger compartment. They were originally designed to remove solid contaminants like dust and soot from circulating inside your vehicle, but can now also absorb gases and odors. Cabin air filters may also be known as passenger compartment filters, interior ventilation filters, pollen filters or dust filters.

Why are the cabin air filters used?

It is an undisputed fact that roadways (especially major highways, especially during rush hours) are some of the major sources of air pollution. Therefore, as you are driving, you are forced to breathe the air tainted with exhaust fumes, dust and soot particles, many of which may pose a serious hazard to your health.

The cabin air filter is there to prevent all those pollutants from entering the passenger compartment.

Why and how often should you change the cabin air filter?

Eventually, a cabin air filter starts to lose its effectiveness, as it gets dirty with use. This may result in unpleasant odor, and decreased heating and air conditioning performance caused by restricted airflow through the filter.

It is recommended to replace the cabin air filter at least once a year or every 12,000 to 15,000 miles – more often if your vehicle is operated primarily in areas of heavy pollution or dusty conditions.

Are cabin air filters difficult to replace?

Cabin air filters are typically located under a vehicle’s dashboard or attached to the glove box. Others may be located in the engine compartment. In nearly all cases, cabin air filters can be changed in as little as 10 minutes.

For instructions on replacing the cabin air filter on a particular car model, go to the Car Cabin Air Filters Main Page and find your vehicle under the appropriate category.

Despite all of the filtration options, it was clear that we needed to replace our vehicles. It took more than two years.

Yesterday afternoon we sold the last car from Colorado. It’s been a slow, arduous process. Finding affordable, used cars with no history of air fresheners, chemicals, or mold has not been easy.

The sale of this last vehicle marks the end of a chapter. The old life is slowly passing. Somehow it also feels like a new beginning.

*Please note that many with chemical sensitivities also react to essential oils and/or vinegar. Seek advice from your medical professional before trying any new products or tips and use with your own discretion.

Transitioning to a new environment brings with it a level of stress and anxiety. How can we be sure it’s mold-free? What about the chemical aspect?

The apartment was worth pursuing since it was all electric and only a year old, with no history of water damage. During the walk-through we detected only a faint chemical smell. No plug-ins, no heavy fragrances, and no musty smell. A good, safe home environment should smell like nothing.

The good news about our condition is that our bodies let us know immediately if there is a serious mold issue, something I’ve encountered three times since leaving our Colorado home. All three times I felt a painful tightening in my chest, which took several days to resolve.

Our next step was to inquire about pesticide sprays. Aside from the initial termite spray used during construction, the apartment had not been sprayed indoors.

Although there was no sign of water damage, we decided to have the apartment inspected using thermal imaging. Infrared thermal imaging will detect hidden areas of moisture. It can also spot structural defects and any potential electrical hazards.

According to this website dedicated to thermal imaging:

Thermal imaging inspections provides us with a picture of a specific condition of a home or building. Infrared cameras allow us the ability to see and locate what the naked eye is unable to detect. Infrared images can capture thermal anomalies from moisture or water damage, roof leaks, stucco, EIFS, chimney staining and window leakage. Infrared Scans are able to locate water and moisture intrusion in buildings by thermal patterns.

Our inspector invited our 11-year-old son to put his hands and feet on the wall to demonstrate the heat-detecting capabilities of the machine.

A thermal imaging inspection can range in cost from $100 to $400, depending on the size of the dwelling and whether or not a full inspection is performed.

Here are some things we did to help remedy the chemical smell:

-Placed activated charcoal in open cups throughout the apartment. Zeolite can also be used.
-Cleaned thoroughly with white vinegar.
-Diffused essential oils like lemon and tea tree oil (Be aware that many with MCS cannot tolerate essential oils; use at your own discretion).
-Ran our air purifier (we like the Austin).

The kids are doing well in their new environment. The only question remaining: Who gets the empty room at our house?

Minnie and Sherri at the Health Care Center

Earlier this year (2011), my husband and I had to take a trip to California for medical reasons. Since we were already going to be there, we decided to first stop in Disneyland for some much needed fun!

This was a huge endeavor, not only because I have Multiple Sclerosis and Lyme Disease, but because I also have severe chemical sensitivities and food allergies. Turns out that they were extremely knowledgeable about food allergies, so that was awesome. Read more here!

The biggest fear was that we had never taken a long road trip and we had no idea if I would even be able to stay in a hotel, because of all the chemicals commonly used to clean them. However, they were extremely helpful regarding the room! In fact, they are accustomed to cleaning rooms without chemicals for those who request it and they even have linens and towels that have not been washed in fragranced detergents.

Even arranging all of this, it was a gamble, because the regular use of chemical cleaners and sprays usually linger in carpets, walls and beds. Nonetheless, I am elated to report that the room was delightfully wonderful! I didn’t notice and residuals at all!

The only issue I had was when the housekeepers cleaned the room below me, it wafted up into the vent. We shut it off and left the room. It was fine later.

Of course there were other concerns that could not be helped, in which I had to take care to avoid. For example, housekeeping carts and other sprays in halls. Also, being exposed to laundry detergents, soaps, lotions, deodorants, sunscreens and more from the people in the parks. So, we scheduled the stay during a very quiet time and thankfully I only ran into it briefly a couple of times. In addition, there are rides and shows that have fragrances emitted; but the accessibility crew helped us map those out so that we didn’t go near them.

Finally, the last concern on the agenda were the air fresheners in the park restrooms. Since I am unable to enter a bathroom with those in it, I wouldn’t have have anywhere to go.

My husband was able to share information with them about chemical sensitivities, asthma and allergies through the Cleaner Indoor Air Campaign. After Disney reviewed the statistics and details, they removed the automatic air fresheners in all of the Health Centers in all of the Parks in both Disneyland and Disney World for the sake of those with environmental illness. Read more here!

I can’t guarantee how your experience will be at Disneyland or at any other hotel or resort. In fact, after our wonderful stay at Disneyland, we booked a hotel so that I could visit family I had not gone to see in over 5 years. Even though they claim they cleaned with the products and did not spray anything, the room was thick with chemicals. We had to pay for the room even though we immediately left. My husband drove up and down the road checking out other hotels, but none were tolerable! It was a nightmare!

Video above of Sherri interviewing Pluto and Minnie and thanking Disney for all they did.

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Cleaner Indoor Air Helps Disney Make Change for People with Environmental Illness.

My Visit to Disneyland with Food Allergies

Sherri with Chef Nick

In 2011 I had to go to California for medical reasons. My husband and I had not been on a vacation in a very long time, so we decided to stay at Disneyland!

This was extremely overwhelming, not only because I have Multiple Sclerosis and Lyme Disease, but because I also have severe chemical sensitivities and food allergies. We had never taken a long road trip and we had no idea if I would even be able to stay in a hotel, because of all the chemicals commonly used to clean them. The hotel did a fabulous job with our room! Read more here.

Gluten, wheat, dairy, soy, egg free waffle

As for addressing my food allergies, Disney was incredible! It turns out that they are very well educated about food allergies and sensitivities. Guests with Disabilities contacted Nick, the hotel’s main chef, to discuss my allergies. Nick contacted me for a list of concerns that we were able to discuss.

I have a very extensive list of food allergies, so we opted to discuss them ahead of time (that is how I got the waffle as seen on the right). However, in many cases, a guest can alert their server at the restaurant about common allergies or sensitivities and a chef will come out to discuss their options. Of course, if you go to the restaurant, Goofy’s Kitchen, like we did, you will get to meet the one and only Chef Goofy!

Wow Disney! You really go above and beyond to help guest enjoy the whole Disney experience. Thank you!

Video of Sherri interviewing Chef Goofy and thanking Disney for the wonderful time!

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Cleaner Indoor Air Helps Disney Make Change for People with Environmental Illness.

My Visit to Disneyland with Chemical Sensitivities

Researchers found that across 61 international studies since the 1990s, children living in water-damaged, moldy homes were more likely to have asthma, wheezing problems or nasal allergies than their peers.

The findings do not prove that mold is the culprit, according to the study’s lead researcher.

However, lab research has suggested that exposure to mold and airborne mold spores can create inflammation in the airways, added Dr. Christina Tischer, of the German Research Center for Environmental Health in Neuherberg.

These latest findings underscore the importance of not only getting rid of visible mold, but also preventing it in the first place, Tischer told Reuters Health in an email.

People often believe that mold is bad news for their lung health, and many studies have supported that idea. But some recent studies have linked certain proteins in mold “components” in the home to a lower risk of asthma and allergies in children. Those components are particular fungus cells that can mix in with house dust.

So for their review, Tischer and her colleagues separated studies that examined visible mold — the most obvious sign of a mold problem — from the smaller number in which researchers measured mold components in household dust samples.

They found that overall, children in homes with visible mold were 49 percent more likely to have asthma than kids not exposed to the problem. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 10 percent of all American kids have asthma.

Meanwhile, the children’s risk of nasal allergies was 39 percent higher.

Exposure to mold components in house dust was linked to a lower risk of those respiratory ills, the researchers report in the European Respiratory Journal.

In theory, that finding could be due to differences between visible mold and the mold components that are part of the normal mix of bacteria, fungus and other microbes in indoor air.

“Visible mold patches at the walls, or a moldy odor, is indicating that the normal microbial composition is out of kilter, which is most often due to dampness, excessive moisture or building damages,” Tischer explained.

According to one theory — the “hygiene hypothesis” — living with the normal mix of microbes helps young children’s immune systems develop in a way that makes allergic reactions less likely.

Tischer said that getting rid of visible mold “might be a first important step in order to create a healthy environment at home.”

But, she added, the reasons for the mold problem have to be addressed too. That means steps like repairing leaky plumbing or other sources of water damage, and lowering humidity in the home with better ventilation.

What’s more, traveling and going into public can be virtually impossible for many living with chemical sensitivities and environmental illness. Not only do they often have to avoid exhaust, paints and smoke, many cannot tolerate perfumes, other fragranced items and/or cleaning products.

Since chemicals and fragrances seem to permeate public areas, most often even attempting to travel is out of the question. On the other hand, if enough strategic planning and efforts are made, it may be possible in some cases. There are no guarantees the adaptations and requests for accommodations will pay off. However, often taking the possible risk outweighs the continued isolation, as long as proper research, preparations and arrangements are requested and a Plan B is in place.

In 2011, Invisible Disabilities Association President, Wayne Connell needed to take his wife Sherri to California for medical reasons. She cannot tolerate an airplane, so they decided to venture out in their car. They had never taken a long road trip and in order to do this, they had to take special air purifiers, masks, oxygen, sheets, towels, blankets and more. Their biggest obstacle was finding a place to stay. Hotels had always been out of the question, because of the cleaning chemicals they use in the rooms, on the linens and the air fresheners often used in the lobbies.

Even so, Wayne and Sherri had to figure out how to make it work. Since they needed to go to California, they decided to stop in Disneyland first. Wayne got into contact with Domestic Services for Guests with Disabilities (DSGD) who made contact with the hotel and provided information about the grounds.

Certainly, there are many situations that cannot be changed, such as stores that carry perfumes and candles, as well as the people in the parks wearing perfumes, fragranced lotions, deodorants and sunscreens. DSGD also provided a list of rides that emit fragrances, smoke or contain chlorine. Thus, those things had to be avoided and travel plans were made during a very slow time of the year to avoid people in the parks, stores and restaurants. They also contacted the hotel’s housekeeping manager and  the head chef regarding Sherri’s food allergies.

Was it actually possible to make the room accessible? It turns out that Disney is not new to hosting people with chemical sensitivities, allergies and asthma. They have sheets and linens set aside that have never been washed in chemicals or fragrances and they are happy to clean the room with baking soda and vinegar and omit any sprays. The hotel was also asked not to spray anything in the halls during their visit, in which they complied. All of the restaurants and chefs are also familiar with various food allergies and sensitivities, where guests are welcome to discuss their concerns ahead of time (with the hotel’s head chef) or when they arrive at a restaurant.

Finally, there was the matter of the automated sprayers in the bathrooms, which are often used by businesses. As you can imagine, for those who become very ill when exposed to these, being unable to use a restroom in a large park such as this can create a barrier from the park itself.  Thus, Wayne requested they shut off the emitters in one bathroom of each park during their visit. He also provided information from IDA’s Cleaner Indoor Air Campaign regarding the prevalence of chemical sensitivities, asthma and allergies, as well as how the sprayers can pose a blockade of accessibility to the restrooms and parks.

Health Care Center

Concerned for the vast numbers of people affected by units in bathrooms, Disney reviewed the information and decided to not only shut them off for a week, but to remove them permanently from the Health Care Center restrooms in all of the parks for both Disneyland and Disney World!

IDA was extremely thrilled to be a part of this ground breaking measure to tear down these barriers for thousands who would like to enjoy the Disney parks.

Disney is doing an amazing job with their incredible hospitality and outstanding accommodation efforts. Nonetheless, please keep in mind that no theme park can guarantee comfort and accessibility for all concerns and situations.

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My Visit to Disneyland with Chemical Sensitivities

My Visit to Disneyland with Food Allergies

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Now I gravitate to these articles. I love reading about toxicity. Our mold exposure turned me around. Truth is not easy to hear. But it’s freeing.

Avoiding chemicals is impossible. Making wise choices is not. Last week the government added formaldehyde to their growing list of cancer-causing substances. According to the following Reuters article:

The government on Friday added formaldehyde, a substance found in plastics and other commonly used products, to a list of known carcinogens and warned that the chemical styrene might cause cancer.

In a report prepared for the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), scientists warned that people with higher exposure to formaldehyde were more at risk for nasopharyngeal cancer, myeloid leukemia and other cancers.

“There is now sufficient evidence from studies in humans to show that individuals with higher measures of exposure to formaldehyde are at increased risk for certain types of rare cancers …,” the Report on Carcinogens said.

Formaldehyde is a colorless, flammable, strong-smelling chemical widely used to make resins for household items, such as composite wood products, paper product coatings, plastics, synthetic fibers, Formaldehyde and Styrene
I used to avoid reading about dangerous substances. I didn’t like hearing about things that might do me harm.

Now I gravitate to these articles. I love reading about toxicity. Our mold exposure turned me around. Truth is not easy to hear. But it’s freeing.

Avoiding chemicals is impossible. Making wise choices is not. Last week the government added formaldehyde to their growing list of cancer-causing substances. According to the following Reuters article:

The government on Friday added formaldehyde, a substance found in plastics and other commonly used products, to a list of known carcinogens and warned that the chemical styrene might cause cancer.

In a report prepared for the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), scientists warned that people with higher exposure to formaldehyde were more at risk for nasopharyngeal cancer, myeloid leukemia and other cancers.

“There is now sufficient evidence from studies in humans to show that individuals with higher measures of exposure to formaldehyde are at increased risk for certain types of rare cancers …,” the Report on Carcinogens said.

Formaldehyde is a colorless, flammable, strong-smelling chemical widely used to make resins for household items, such as composite wood products, paper product coatings, plastics, synthetic fibers, , and textile finishes.

It is also commonly used as a preservative in medical laboratories, mortuaries, and some consumer products, including hair straightening products.

The report, produced by the National Toxicology Program (NTP), also added styrene to the list of substances that were reasonably anticipated to be human carcinogens.

Styrene is a synthetic chemical used in the manufacture of products such as rubber, plastic, insulation, fiberglass, pipes, automobile parts, food containers, and carpet backing.

The greatest exposure to styrene in the general population is through cigarette smoking, the report said.

The American Chemistry Council (ACC), an industry group, lashed out at the report, saying it was concerned that politics may have hijacked the scientific process.

“Today’s report by HHS made unfounded classifications of both formaldehyde and styrene and will unnecessarily alarm consumers,” Cal Dooley, president and CEO of the ACC, said in a statement.

Jennifer Sass of the National Resources Defense Council, a U.S. environmental group, praised the government for publishing the report in the face of what she described as pressure by chemical companies to prevent its release.

“The chemical industry fought the truth, the science, and the public — but, in the end our government experts came through for us, giving the public accurate information about the health risks from chemicals that are commonly found in our homes, schools, and workplaces,” Sass wrote in a blog.

The report also listed aristolochic acids, found in some plants, as a known carcinogen and added the fungicide captafol, some inhalable glass wool fibers, cobalt-tungsten carbide, riddelliine and o-Nitrotoluene to the list of substances reasonably anticipated to be carcinogens.

It, however, said listing the substances did not in itself mean they would cause cancer. Amount and duration of exposure, and susceptibility to a substance were among the many factors that affected whether a person developed cancer, it said.

The government report may be viewed here.

What can we do to offset our exposure to these chemicals? Here are a couple of options:

1. Invest in an air purifier for your home, office, or school. Austin Air Systems offers high quality. The HealthMate+ is specifically designed to deal with chemical vapors. Click here to find out more.

2. An immediate and more affordable option is zeolite. Zeolite actually attracts odors and gases and traps them in its crystalline structure. Click here to view one provider of zeolite granules.