The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) have recently conducted a study concerning the relationship between chemicals used in the workplace and the increased risks of sudden death among workers. The purpose of the study was to learn the mechanism of lethal heart attack (SAD) caused by prolonged exposure to certain chemicals. Specifically, the study sought to learn whether exposure to two common chemicals, Chlorine and Ethylene Chlorination, affects blood chemistry and vascular parameters. Specifically, the study focused on changes in both levels of CVD risk indicators, namely, high-sensitivity proteins (hs-CRP), and coronary artery (CAr) artery biochemical variables.
The goal of the present study was to determine whether chronic exposure to chemicals poses a risk for SAD. The two chemicals are Chlorine and Ethylene Chlorination. The goal was to determine if these chemicals are associated with abnormal blood chemistry responses, specifically, low density lipoproteins (LDL) and high-sensitivity proteins (hs-hs) in the blood. To achieve this end, multiple measurements were taken over an extended period of time.
An EPA report states that more than two million workers in the United States are employed by companies using at least one category of chemicals in their workplaces. As stated in the report, these chemicals can be hazardous. The evaluation conducted by the EPA focuses on whether the chemicals pose a significant threat to human health and the environment. Based upon these studies, the EPA concludes, “There is a connection between exposure to chemicals and the occurrence of serious health conditions.”
According to the studies, low-level exposure to several different chemicals is linked to an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes. For example, one study indicates that workers who work around lithium compounds experience a significantly higher risk of cardiac arrest. Another study indicates that workers who work around pesticides experience a higher rate of asthma. Researchers believe that these chemicals may play a role in increased cases of depression. These studies indicate there is a link between chemicals and diseases and illnesses that are serious.
Another study indicates that a high level of exposure to an excessive number of chemicals increases the risk of blood clots. Two of the chemicals in question are believed to increase LDL levels and decrease HDL levels. Another chemical, Chlorpyrifos, is suspected of altering your blood chemistry. Researchers suspect that Chlorpyrifos causes damage to cellular DNA.
Researchers conducted a study that examined the effects of over 100 commonly used chemicals on human blood cells. The tests concluded that workers who work with these chemicals experience an increased risk of blood clotting. Other chemicals in the workplace, such as TCE (toluene), are suspected of contributing to cardiovascular disease. There is also evidence that workers who work with Atrazine, or dimethylaminoethanol experience higher risks of tumors.
Another group of chemicals that has been the source of studies are those found in personal care products, specifically perfumes. A large-scale study published in the Journal of Applied Toxicology showed that perfume ingredients contained a range of carcinogens, including the chemical benzene. Other compounds in personal care products have also been associated with serious health problems. Dibutyl phthalate (DBP), a common perfume ingredient, has been shown to cause sperm damage and obesity.
If you or someone you know has experienced symptoms of exposure to any of these chemicals, it’s important to speak with a medical professional. These types of illnesses have been linked to a variety of health problems. Some, such as chronic lung disease, can make it impossible to work. The best way to avoid exposure is to use general care when buying cosmetics, personal care items, or foods. You should also avoid contact with anything that is scented or has chemicals listed on its label.
City Chemical is a producer of chemicals such as: Cuprous Oxide, 1317-39-1, Silicon Tetrabromide, 7789-66-4, Calcium Fluoride, 7789-75-5, Potassium Manganate, 10294-64-1, Silver Iodide, 7783-96-2, Silver Lactate, 128-00-7.
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