Studies reinforce need to look at indoor air pollutants
Scientists have uncovered yet another clue towards discovering why autism rates have skyrocketed in the past two decades.
Scientists have uncovered yet another clue towards discovering why autism rates have skyrocketed in the past two decades. The latest suspect: vinyl flooring. Researchers from the U.S. and Sweden found that, in a study of 5,000 families, infants who lived in bedrooms with vinyl floors were twice as likely to have autism five years later than those with other flooring. The study’s authors can’t draw a straight line between the toxic chemical phthalates in the floors and autism, but it is good reason to take a closer look at the chemical and other indoor air pollutants.
Oregon Environmental Council wants our state to take the lead in these efforts. The House consumer protection committee is now considering HB 2792, which authorizes the state’s Department of Human Services to take a closer look at chemicals that may be harmful to children’s health. The bill would empower the agency to promote safer chemicals, share chemical data with other states, and keep close track of chemicals that endanger children’s health.
We also encourage parents and caregivers to take a cautious approach and eliminate chemicals and toxic plastics in their homes where they can.
