| Perfumes Linked to Genital Abnormalities |
A Swedish study
reporting their findings in DECEMBER 2002 for Healthcare Without Harm has found
high levels of chemicals called phthalates in some well known perfumes and
toiletries. Some of these chemicals, already blamed as contributing to
infertility and previously shown by a
Genital abnormalities occur in 4 per cent of male births. These include undescended testicles, malformations of the urinary tract, hypospadias (a defect of the penis), prostate damage, reduced sperm production and mobility, Sertoli cell damage (required to support sperm development), Leydig cell tumours.
The European Union has joined with other government regulatory agencies in viewing certain phthalates as a potential hazard for human reproduction. In November 2002, the EU amended the Cosmetics Directive 76/768/EEC to order the removal of two phthalates in because of their reproductive toxicity. This directive should be enacted in the near future.
The European Union had previously classified both phthalates as substances, “…which should be regarded as if they impair fertility in humans” and substances, “…which should be regarded as if they cause developmental toxicity to humans.”
The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) in April 2001 said that they believe that "at the present time there is no reason for consumers to be alarmed at the use of cosmetics containing phthalates". It adds that they will continue to evaluate study data and if a health hazard exists they will consider its legal options under the authority of the Food, Drug and cosmetic Act in protecting the health and welfare of consumers. Their advice remains the same at this present moment in time.
It is possible that this is a good example of the need for labeling of toiletries and cosmetics, at the present time not required by many governments. When research is pointing to problems but when the politics of our complex societies deem legislation is not required then individuals can choose to act for themselves.
