Last year, ten people took part in an investigative study to test for the presence of toxic chemicals in their body. The Toxic-Free Legacy Coalition took hair, blood, and urine samples and tested for plasticizing chemicals known as phthalates; the flame retardants PBDEs; lead, arsenic, and mercury; perfluorinated chemicals like those used to make Teflon; and pesticides -- including the now banned PCBs and DDT. Many of these are know to increase cancer risks. The purpose of the study was two-fold -- the researchers wanted to know which chemicals are getting into our bodies, at what levels, and to better understand the potential harm posed by poor regulation of chemicals. Second, the researchers hope that by understanding the dangers we face, better solutions can be developed to eliminate the exposures to toxins from the environment. The results shocked and surprised the participants in the study. It might disturb you too, as most of us carry a similar body burden of cancer-causing chemicals.

Researchers found that every person tested had at least 26 and as many as 39 of the toxic chemicals in his or her body; that the exposure to toxic chemicals come from everyday activities and products; and that the government isn't protecting us.

According to the researchers, state and federal government have failed to prevent the use of harmful chemicals in consumer products, manufacturing processes, and food production. Most chemicals are virtually unregulated, and a new comprehensive approach needs to implemented to protect our health from toxic chemicals. Pollution in People: A Study of Toxic Chemicals in Washingtonians is available in its entirety online here. You will be able to read detailed profiles of each of the ten participants in the study, as well as alternative tips on how to reduce exposure to every day toxins.