Toxic chemical detected in 10 percent of women’s underwear

A study conducted in Hungary, Austria, and Slovenia found that 10% of women’s underwear contained dangerous levels of toxic chemicals. The research, involving consumer watchdog groups from Hungary, Austria, Slovenia, and the Czech Republic, identified high levels of hormone-disrupting chemicals known as bisphenols in women’s underwear.

Bisphenol A (BPA), commonly used in plastic production and classified as a hazardous chemical by the EU, was found in synthetic fabrics used in underwear. The study tested 166 different types of women’s underwear and found bisphenols in 10% of them, with higher levels in well-known brands compared to cheaper alternatives.

Bisphenol exposure, linked to reproductive, eye, lung, skin, and hormonal system damage, can occur through skin absorption.

Despite EU regulations banning or limiting BPA in certain products, such as baby bottles and food packaging, the study highlights the need for stricter controls across all consumer products.

Environmental groups, like Arnika, advocate for the complete ban of bisphenols in consumer goods, noting that manufacturers sometimes replace BPA with other bisphenols that pose similar health risks. (DIKEN)