European NGOs welcome doctors’ warning of harm to newborns from toxic chemicals in consumer products
WECF and HEAL, two European health and environment groups strongly welcome the statement released today by the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) addressing the risks to babies and mothers associated with everyday exposure to toxic chemicals
10.10.2015 |
WECF strongly welcomed the statement released by the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) addressing the risks to babies and mothers associated with everyday exposure to toxic chemicals.
Together with HEAL, the European Health and Environment Alliance, WECF issued a press release
WECF and HEAL Press Release (PDF)
Hormone (or endocrine) disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are found in food packaging, pesticides, cosmetics and chemical coatings on household products. Many of the researchers working on this topic are agreed that these substances are contributing to the increasing incidence of many conditions.
The FIGO opinion lists the health problems associated with exposure to toxic chemicals as « Miscarriage and fetal loss, impaired fetal growth, congenital malformations, impaired or reduced neurodevelopment and cognitive function, and an increase in cancer, attention problems, ADHD behaviors, and hyperactivity ».
FIGO represents 125 national societies of obstetricians and gynaecologists around the world. It is dedicated to improving the health of women and newborns and advancing the science and practice of obstetrics and gynaecology. The document is endorsed by many medical and health bodies, including the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists in the UK. (2)
“We very much support FIGO’s recommendations. Babies are the most vulnerable and least able to protect themselves. Harmful exposure to toxic chemicals in the womb occurs at very low levels and the effects cannot be reversed. This is why we consider it vital that doctors, midwives and other professionals call for protection against toxic chemicals,” explains Anne Barre, co-president WECF France.
The statement came in advance of FIGO’s annual congress in Vancouver which took place from 4-9 October 2015. The International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) communication urges obstetricians, gynaecologists, midwives, women’s health nurse practitioners, nurses and other health professionals to advocate for policies to prevent exposure to toxic chemicals and to make environmental health part of health care.
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