Synopsis
A recent study by Canadian researchers has uncovered harmful substances in mattresses for infants and young children, potentially affecting their health. The presence of phthalates and flame retardants poses serious risks, including neurological issues and hormonal disruptions.Key Takeaways
- Presence of phthalates and flame retardants in children's mattresses.
- Linked to neurological and reproductive disorders.
- Children's mattresses may release harmful chemicals when heated.
- Urgent need for testing and safety measures from manufacturers.
- Recommendations for minimizing clutter and frequent washing of bedding.
New Delhi, April 15 (NationPress) A group of researchers from Canada has identified harmful substances such as phthalates, flame retardants, and other toxic chemicals in the mattresses used by infants and young children. These substances can be inhaled and absorbed during sleep, which raises multiple health concerns.
Experts from the University of Toronto have indicated that these chemicals are associated with neurological and reproductive issues, as well as conditions like asthma, hormonal disruptions, and even cancer.
“Sleep is essential for cognitive growth, especially in babies and toddlers. However, our findings indicate that many mattresses may harbor chemicals that can negatively impact children's brain health,” remarked Miriam Diamond, a Professor at the University of Toronto.
“This serves as an urgent reminder for both manufacturers and policymakers to prioritize the safety of children's sleeping environments and promote healthy brain development,” she added.
The comprehensive literature review appears in the journals Environmental Science and Technology and Environmental Science and Technology Letters.
In the initial study, researchers evaluated chemical concentrations in 25 children's bedrooms, ranging from 6 months to 4 years old. They discovered alarming levels of over two dozen phthalates, flame retardants, and UV filters in the air, particularly around the beds.
In a supplementary study, they tested 16 newly acquired children's mattresses and confirmed these items are likely significant sources of harmful chemicals in children's sleeping environments.
When mimicking a child's body temperature and weight on mattresses, the release of chemicals increased drastically, sometimes by several times.
The phthalates and organophosphate ester flame retardants identified in this study act as hormone disruptors and are linked to neurological issues, including learning disabilities, lower IQ, behavioral challenges, and memory impairment, according to the researchers.
Some of these chemicals are also associated with childhood asthma and cancer. Several UV filters are known hormone disruptors. Children are particularly susceptible to such exposures due to their ongoing development, hand-to-mouth behaviors, and significantly higher breathing rates compared to adults.
Additionally, children possess more permeable skin and a skin surface area that is three times greater relative to their body weight than that of adults.
Flame retardants are linked to neurological, reproductive, and hormonal damage, as well as cancer, yet they do not provide proven fire safety benefits in mattresses.
The researchers urge manufacturers to increase their scrutiny regarding the chemicals present in children's mattresses through regular testing.
The study's authors recommend minimizing clutter in children's sleeping spaces by reducing the number of pillows, blankets, and toys. They also suggest frequently washing and refreshing your child's bedding and sleepwear, as this can serve as a protective barrier against exposure.
