The Food and Drug Administration declared on Tuesday that it is initiating an independent evaluation and has started a study to investigate the potential consequences of hazardous metals in tampons.
A July research discovered that over a dozen tampon brands included lead, mercury, and arsenic, among other elements.
Study co-author Kathrin Schilling, an assistant professor at Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, stated in a news release that “although toxic metals are ubiquitous and we are exposed to low levels at any given time, our study clearly shows that metals are also present in menstrual products, and that women might be at higher risk for exposure using these products.” Additionally engaged were researchers from the UC Berkeley School of Public Health.
Although the research found metals, it was unable to determine if the ladies were harmed by them. However, there is a huge need to realize that potential: The study found that up to 80% of American women use tampons during their periods.
The Democratic Women’s Caucus was alerted to the story and requested in writing that the FDA investigate the matter further.
Caucus members said, “Women use approximately 7,400 tampons during their reproductive years, so the presence of potentially harmful metals and chemicals in these products is incredibly concerning.” “We implore the FDA to move quickly to protect women from dangerous and poisonous materials found in tampons.”
The amount of metals that may be leached from tampons while they are within women’s bodies will be measured, according to the FDA’s lab research.
“By taking these steps, the FDA will be able to finish evaluating the risk of metals in tampons, taking into account the worst-case scenario of metal exposure,” the organization stated. Furthermore, a thorough analysis of the literature will help to better comprehend the information currently known on the presence of chemicals in tampons and, more crucially, any potential health risks related with those chemicals.
