Approximately 12.6% of the population lives with multiple chemical sensitivities -also known as Toxic Injury, Toxic Encephalopathy or Environmental Illness (Adams). In 1998 it was estimated that 26.3 million Americans live with asthma, in which up to 72% report their asthma is triggered by fragrances (ALA).
“’Even if the general population isn’t likely to suffer acute effects from exposure to fragrances, there are long-term chronic health effects connected to these chemicals that we don’t fully understand yet,’ says [Carrie] Loewenherz,” an industrial hygienist for the New York Committee for Occupational Safety and Health (Lyman).
Read and Order Pamphlet, “Why Go Fragrance Free? Millions Report Adverse Reactions to Perfumes and Fragrances.”
PAMPHLET RESOURCES:
Adams, Brandon (Sept 2003). “More than 12% of Population Reports Extreme Sensitivity to Low Levels of Common Chemicals.” Journal Environmental Health Perspectives (EHP) http://ehp.niehs.nih.gov
ALA, “Asthma: FAQs.” American Lung Association of Texas www.texaslung.org.
Lyman, Francesca (Feb. 12, 2003). “What the nose knows – Think twice before buying a loved one perfume, cologne.” MSNBC http://msnbc.msn.com.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:
Air Fresheners by Anne C. Steinemann, PhD
Creating a Fragrance-Free Zone – A Friendlier Atmosphere for Those Living with Environmental Illness
Fragrance Tidbits Information Sheet
Laundry Products by Anne C. Steinemann
Prevalence of fragrance sensitivity in the American population – Study by Anne C. Steinemann
Radio Interview with Environmental Engineer and Researcher
Study Reveals Unlisted Chemicals in Consumer Products