The National Toxicology Program and the International Association for Research on Carcinogens classifies naphthalene and PDCB as potential human carcinogens because research has demonstrated that these two chemical compounds have been shown to cause cancer in rodents -- and yet, more than one million pounds of naphthalene and PDCB are used by consumers annually. Naphthalene is found in mothballs and para-dichlorobenzene, PDCB, is found in some air fresheners.

While researchers could demonstrate that naphthalene and PDCB caused cancer, they could not explain how. University of Colorado researchers can explain how these chemicals work in the body to create a pathway for the development of cancer. Naphthalene and PDCB block enzymes that normally initiate the programmed cell death required to prevent cells from replicating out of control in the formation of tumors.

According to the researchers that figured out a way to test chemicals for their ability to stop the function of cells in the body to protect itself from out of control cell growth, understanding how carcinogenic compounds can trigger tumor growth is important for federal regulatory agencies that deal with human exposure to hazardous chemicals. Any chemical can now be tested in a matter of weeks using the testing developed by the University of Colorado researchers.

It amazes me that over one million pounds of two cancer-causing chemical compounds are used annually, even though the risk is established. Children's Health Environmental Coalition, CHEC, chemical profile for PDCB indicates the chemical can be found in household products that act as deodorizers for toilet bowls, diaper pails and closets, mothballs, miticides for pet birds, rodent repellents, and insecticide on fruit trees.

CHEC offers some suggestions for alternative non-toxic solutions:

• Store clean clothing in airtight containers or sealed bags with cedar blocks, cedar shavings (available as cage bedding in pet stores), or cedar oil. Place cedar in drawers and closets. Inspect any used clothing or furniture carefully for moths or larvae before bringing them into the house, or clean them first.
• To minimize unpleasant odors, keep toilets, garbage cans, and diaper pails clean. Leave an open box of baking soda nearby to absorb odors, and be sure your home is well-ventilated.
• Vigorously shaking clothes will remove larvae and eggs (remember to vacuum well afterwards). And the heat of the dryer will also kill larvae and eggs.