Toxic Elements to Avoid

Household Toxins* - what to look for to protect your health

Di phthalates - wall coverings, shower curtains, floor tiles & upholstery that can cause endocrine, reproductive & developmental problems

Combustion byproducts - leaking furnaces, gas stoves, chimneys, gas water heater backdraft & attached garage exhausts can cause cardiovascular, respiratory (asthma) problems & nervous system failure

Volatile organic compounds (VOC) - paint, air fresheners, cleaning products, carpet, pressed wood furniture can cause reproductive, respiratory, neurological & deveopmental problems

Perfluorinated chemicals (PFC's) - teflon-coated cookware, microwave popcorn bags, stain-guard clothing, furniture & carpets can cause cancer & developmental problems

Lead - lead pipes, paint, crystal tableware & some mini-blinds can cause cancer, neurological dysfunction, hormonal imbalances & reproductive problems

Para-dichlorobenzene - deodorants, toilet disinfectants, deodorants & refuse containers can cause liver, skin & central nervous system problems

Pesticides & Herbicides - flea color, ant traps, insect baits, adjacency to non-organic farming & some landscaping can cause nervous system, reproductive problems & risk for cancer

Perchloroethylene - dry cleaning solvent, fabric finishers, spot removers, shoe polish, wood cleaners can cause central nervous system, liver & kidney problems

* Published in the Yale Magazine Fall 2013 issue