Chemical Detector Bracelet

A recent U.K. study reported that women are exposed to more than 500 chemical compounds daily through body care products, makeups, hair products and the like. Combine that with environmental toxins and the myriad of chemicals that are found in food and the importance of determining the effects on human health becomes clear. So, researchers have developed an easy way to measure these potentially dangerous compounds.

Silicone wristbands, similar to those that support any number of charitable causes, were soaked in solvents, making them capable of absorbing a variety of chemicals. Thirty volunteers then wore the bracelets for a month, after which the chemicals were removed by shaking them in a mix of solvents and testing them in a lab. The results showed that the wearers were exposed to nearly 50 different compounds including pesticides, flame retardants, and chemicals from pet flea applications as well as remnants from caffeine, nicotine, fragrances and other personal care products. In a separate test on roofers, the wristbands revealed exposure to twelve hydrocarbons on the EPA priority list.

The wristbands are now being used in other studies to determine the risks of exposure to chemicals. One involves pregnant women in New York City in which the results are being compared to results from portable air sampling units. The goal is to learn about the connection between birth defects and environmental toxins. Another will soon be underway in West Africa where researchers are studying the risks of pesticides and other agricultural chemicals on farmers.