Hidden Toxins Found in 90% of U.S. Preschoolers, Raising Health Concerns

Hidden Toxins Found in 90% of U.S. Preschoolers, Raising Health Concerns
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A groundbreaking study funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has revealed that 90% of U.S. children aged 2 to 4 carry a wide range of potentially harmful chemicals in their bodies, SciTech Daily reported. Researchers from the University of California, Davis, and other institutions analyzed urine samples from 201 toddlers across four states and detected 96 different chemicals, many unmonitored by national health surveys.

These chemicals originate from everyday sources such as plastics, flame retardants, pesticides, personal care products, and household items. Notably, substances like phthalates, parabens, bisphenols, and pesticides were commonly found, with some chemicals even present at higher levels in children than in their mothers during pregnancy.

The study highlights that young children’s behaviors—such as frequent hand-to-mouth contact and playing close to the ground—combined with their smaller body weight, increase their vulnerability to chemical exposure. Trends showed some chemical levels declining over time, while others, including newer pesticides and plasticizers, are on the rise. Disparities were noted, with minority children often showing higher chemical levels.

Researchers call for stronger regulations and expanded biomonitoring to protect children’s health, emphasizing the critical impact of early exposure on brain development and immune function. Parents are advised to reduce exposure by choosing safer products, avoiding certain plastics, washing hands frequently, ventilating homes, and limiting pesticide contact.