MIAMI.- A study by the University of California at Berkeley reported that a series of toxic metals, including arsenic and lead, have been detected in commonly used tampons that could increase the risk of adverse health effects for users,
According to the report, researchers purchased tampons between September 2022 and March 2023 from stores in New York City, Athens, and London, and from two popular online retailers. They analyzed 30 tampons (made from cotton, rayon, viscose, or a blend of these materials) from 14 brands and 18 product lines, and found all 16 types of metal they were looking for in each product.
“To our knowledge, our study is the first to assess metal concentrations in tampons, despite the potential for substantial vaginal absorption of metals and the widespread and frequent use of tampons among menstruating women,” the study authors wrote.
An estimated 52 to 86 percent of menstruating Americans use tampons. There is no “safe” level for any of the metals the researchers analyzed, according to the study.
Toxic metals are especially dangerous if they come into direct contact with a person’s internal organs, where they are more easily absorbed. Chronic absorption of metals has been linked to an increased risk of dementia, cancer, infertility and other health problems.
The level of metal detected in each tampon varied depending on whether they were sold in the US, UK or EU. There was also variation in metal levels depending on whether the tampons were organic or non-organic.
Here is the complete study.
The original publication of the study is on the portal
Source: Writing