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Unspecified?
TO HUMANS & TO THE ENVIRONMENT
OF CHEMICAL INJURY
AN AWARENESS
A 20th century condition that has come home to roost with aftereffects in the 21st century
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Your best teacher is your last mistake.
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Ralph Nader
UNSPECIFIED? AN AWARENESS OF CHEMICAL INJURY
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AN EDUCATIONAL TOOL TO PROMOTE AWARENESS & UNDERSTANDING OF A GROWING HEALTH CONCERN WORLDWIDE
Compiled and Edited by Armynel Sobriquet
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UNSPECIFIED? An Awareness of Chemical Injury to Humans & to the Environment | Š2014
Dedicated to All 21st Century Canaries, Friends, and Family in Avatarland from Bitstrips, Inc., Especially Friends Who Contributed Their Cartoons for the Blitz Campaign: W.C., S.F., C.D., M.A., and Fresh Air for All
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(some of these initials are not aliases).
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What Tends to be an “Unspecified” Illness?
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Backstory
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The Awareness Campaign in Cartoons
166 Contributors’ Cartoons 177 What is this All About (i.e., MCS)? 180 A Message from Armynel Sobriquet
187 Fighting for Recognition 188 Supplements; Select Web Links (Blue Star)
192 Supplements; Select Texts (Yellow Star) 200 Supplement; Select Videos (Black Star)
202 Abbreviations & Terms; Abridged
“We need to pay attention to the early warning signs, albeit late for some.”
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TABLE OF CONTENT
“Canary in the Coal Mine”
“CANARY IN THE COAL MINE” An allusion to caged canaries that mining workers would carry down into the mine tunnels with them. If dangerous gases such as methane or carbon monoxide leaked into the mine, the gases would kill the canary before killing the miners, thus providing a warning to exit the tunnels immediately.
Are you becoming a sickly canary because of our polluted circumstances?
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At the turn of the 21 st century, more and more persons have been experiencing and learning the causes of their reaction to toxicants in their outdoor and indoor environments. “Canaries in the coal mine” are they—whose sensitivity to adverse conditions makes it a useful early indicator of toxic conditions. It also means something which warns of the coming of greater danger or of trouble by a deterioration in its health or welfare.
There is an international coding system that classifies diseases (e.g., ICD-10-CM/PCS) which can be modified by each country that is a signatory. The “unspecified” codes have acceptable, even necessary, uses; and “are considered the best choice to accurately reflect the health care encounter” provided each health care encounter is coded “to the level of certainty known for that encounter.”
An ICD-10 Transition is in the works with a deadline of October 1, 2014, for anyone under HIPAA, a law that, among other things, protects health insurance coverage for workers and their families when they change or lose their jobs. It also requires standardization of codes ty be used. It is important for Canaries to understand how these codes are being used—
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There is this illness that is often charted to “unspecified” causes out of lack of information or, in some instances, for nefarious reasons. The latter is conjecture because there is a lot of data that has been gathered by researchers, pointing to known toxic chemicals mixed into making many consumer products. Due to fancy play of words, many consumers are lured into thinking that manufacturers have their best interest at heart by making consumers believe that only safe products are sold in the marketplace. Ignorance is not always bliss, especially when the time comes for the body to break down into “unspecified” illnesses. Often as an “unspecified” illness, a medical claim is denied when the cause of the illness is chemical in nature.
The ICD requires that, “if a definitive diagnosis has not been established by the end of the encounter, it is appropriate to report codes for sign(s) and/or symptom(s) in lieu of a definitive diagnosis. When sufficient clinical information is not known or available or available about a particular health condition to assign a more specific code, it is acceptable to report the appropriate unspecified code (for example, a diagnosis of pneumonia has been determined but the specific type has not been determined. In fact, unspecified codes should be reported when they are the codes that most accurately reflect what is known about the patient’s condition at the time of that particular encounter. It is inappropriate to select a specific code that is not supported by the medical record documentation or conduct medically unnecessary diagnostic testing to determine a more specific code [emphasis added]”.
WHAT TENDS TO BE AN “UNSPECIFIED” ILLNESS
either against them or for them. Usually, it is the former. Consequently, it is essential to record the instance of the exposure to toxic chemicals, the name of the product, the duration of the exposure, and the like to make the case certain. To be protected, it also requires that one documents the conversations between the health provider and the patient.
State Medicaid programs must use ICD-10 for services. Clams for all health care serves and hospital inpatient produces performed on or after October 1, 2014, must use ICD-10 diagnosis and inpatient procedure codes. The Web’s free 2014 ICD-10-CM and ICD-10PCs Medical reference can be found at www.icd10data.com. Find a code that is closely symptomatic to your illness when you go to the doctor. For example, J30-J39 is for “Other diseases of upper respiratory tract”; J30 is for “Vasomotor and allergic rhinitis” (vasomotor is a non-allergic category that can be related to chemical exposure); then the codes tend to breakdown from there into disease not elsewhere classified. This is the escape valve of practitioners supported by the chemical industry.
Tort and/or trespass claims going into litigation are difficult to prove. Do not forget the fight injured persons had with the tobacco industry. That battle is still not over. There is no end to the battle to be safe in our environment. Let’s not forget the groundbreaking works of Ralph Nader and Erin Brockovich-Ellis, environmental activities who have successfully challenged the malfeasance of big corporations against the nation’s worsening water pollution and lack of effective federal response (e.g., contamination of drinking water with hexavalent chromium by the Pacific Gas and Electric Company of California). Many fights are now being taken online with petitions being submitted, for example, via change.org and care2.com. We recommend that you view the suggested videos on page 200 so that you can appreciate the complexity of the situation we are addressing here. The seven largest companies in the world are chemical companies with a license to do harm because they operate as if there is no conflict of interest when it comes to making a profit at the expense of others.
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WHAT TENDS TO BE AN “UNSPECIFIED” ILLNESS
“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”
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Benjamin Franklin
BACKSTORY In May 2014, a decision was made to utilize Bitstrips cartoons in an online social networking service to promote awareness and understanding about how many individuals suffer from chemical injury due to a number of factors. One immediate factor is to recogn the plethora of toxic chemicals found in everyday consumer products. Each day of the month, a set of cartoons were posted in the various groups of the social network of people suffering from such injury. Each daily set tells a story.
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Let the story begin‌.
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Firstly, our fictional friends, Armynel and Willow , joined Seventh Generation to become toxin freedom fighters.. By signing the petition, they earned the official Toxin-Freedom Fighter mask. Seventh Generation is not being endorsed for t He purposes of this educational material. However, Seventh Generation is one of many companies in good standing with persons suffering from chemical sensitivities. They have submitted on April 30, 2014, a petition calling for meaningful toxic chemical reform. The gathered over 120, 000 Americans to sign the petition.
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This is commendable corporate responsibility!
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Secondly, when it was learned that Canaries from Spain were gathering in Madrid to raise awareness on May 10, a decision was made to join them in solidarity.
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The following cartoons were featured on PROMO DAY, May 1 – Mayday, mayday, mayday!
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or is it pan-pan medico, pan-pan medico, pan-pan medico?
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IN THE MEANTIME…
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http://www.ewg.org/guides/substance_groups/87
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OOPS!
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Then it became a month!
DAYS 1-31 AWARENESS CAMPAIGN
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ON CHEMICAL SENSITIVITY & INJURY
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Erratum: “biphenlys” should read “biphenly” and “coorleation” should read “correlation”
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“FOX it” means “spin it” from the “Spin-Free Zone”
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Erratum | CHEMICAL SENSITIVITY HAS ESTABLISHED CRITERIA:
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erratum: Welcome to Day 8
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Links: www.atsdr.cdc.gov Erratum: http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/substances/toxsubstance.asp?toxid=39
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Erratum: “9”
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IN SOLIDARITY WITH CANARIES IN SPAIN ON MAY 10, 2014
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Errata: links are http://fracfocus.org and http://scorecard.goodguide.com/chemical-profiles/
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The original source video Has been removed from YouTube
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INTERNATIONAL MCS DAY | DAY 12
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Erratum: “Government & medicine need….”
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Erratum: “EMPLOEES” should read “EMPLOYEES”
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http://ewg.org
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Idiomatic translation: “I’ve got to sleep to escape from this sick feeling. I’m sorry.”
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http://thegreenguide.com
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Erratum: “THE MOTHERS’ PROJECT ((TMP)”should read “THE MOTHERS PROJECT (TMP), UNITED FOR SUSTAINABILITY” http://www.mothersforsustainableenergy.com/category/environmental-threats
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In a happy note, “all’s well that ends well.”
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FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) How to get rid of a chemical Smell in new furniture? http://www.ehow.com/how_12083773_ rid-chemical-smell-newfurniture.html
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WHAT IS THIS ALL ABOUT (I.E., MCS)? Commonly defined as a chronic medical condition characterized by symptoms that are triggered by exposure to levels of chemicals that are generally regarded as safe for humans, it is highly misunderstood and misinterpreted. To add to the confusion, it as been termed differently by professionals looking into the phenomenon:
o Chemical Sensitivity (CS); Chemical Injury Syndrome (CI); Environmental Illness (EI); Toxic Injury (TI); 20th Century Syndrome; Sick Building Syndrome; Idiopathic Environmental Intolerance (IEI); Toxicant-induced Loss of Tolerance (TILT); Chemical Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (Chemical AIDS); Cerebral Allery, Environmental Hypersensitivity; Toxic Encephalopathy, Acquired Intolerance to Solvents
It is important to know what is what. One cannot always leave it up to the experts, for they either do not care or are too distracted by too much information.
o Often it is involved in Gulf War Syndrome Some claim it is a Limbic System condition brought on by neurological trauma which may involve chemical injury, viral, environmental, and/or psychological factors. Note that trauma, under this diagnosis becomes primary cause while any exposure to toxic chemicals is secondary. This diagnosis should be suspect off the bat when, chemicals are known to cause damage at the cellular or even at the DNA level according to recent research.
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It should be noted, too, that there is a push by the chemical industry and related industries to assign the phenomenon to purely psychological factors.
WHAT IS THIS ALL ABOUT (I.E., MCS)?
A consensus criteria for MCS was established in 1999 (Bartha et al) as follows:
a chronic condition symptoms are reproducible with repeated chemical exposure in response to low-level exposure involves multiple unrelated chemicals symptoms improve when triggers are removed
involves multiple organ systems.
"Technological progress is like an axe in the hands of a pathological criminal.“— Albert Einstein
For a recent report on MCS, Multiple Chemical Sensitivity: Identifying Key Research Needs, Scientific Review Report, NICNAS OCSEH, Australian Government (November 2010): http://www.nicnas.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/000 5/4946/MCS_Final_Report_Nov_2010_PDF.pdf According to the Australian scientific report, “No laboratory tests currently exist for diagnosing MCS…There are no standardised treatments for MCS…The most common management regime for MCS is avoidance of agents that trigger symptoms.” There is prevailing resistance to do the necessary epidemiological studies to distinguish psychogenic from toxicogenic origins of the symptoms.
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The symptoms are many. The prevalent five are headaches, fatigue, confusion, depression, and shortness of breath. Common triggers are coal, oil, gas, combustion products, mineral oil, Vaseline, waxes, asphalts, tars, resins, dyes, adhesives, disinfectant, deodorants, detergents, rubber, plastic, synthetic textiles, finishes, alcohols, glycols, aldehydes, esters, derivatives. Many of these chemical agents are petro-based derivatives. Triggers tend to fall into the following categories: outdoor air pollutants; indoor air pollutants; foods, food additives, and contaminants; drugs and consumer products.
WHAT IS THIS ALL ABOUT (I.E., MCS)?
United States--American Lung Association, American Medical Association, U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, U.S. Department of Education, U.S. Social Security Administration, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the United States Access Board, the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board; the City of Santa Cruz and the City of Petaluma, California. Overseas—The Canadian Government, The German Institute of Medicine, Austria Federal Ministry of Health, Japanese Ministry of Health, Government of South Australia, State Government of Victoria Australia, Australian Capital Territory, Ministry of Health in Spain, Nova Scotia. This list is not all inclusive. As more and more impartial data is produced, one would hope that other agencies, institutions, and the like will take the necessary action to properly accommodate the health and safety of all persons, not just the Canaries. The Canaries are the clarion call that all is not right with the air we breathe, the food we eat, and the water we drink. The genie is out of the bottle, but even something has to be done to alleviate the injury and suffering. It is better than doing nothing. One can start by adopting a fragrance-free policy in the workplace and at home.
“All the money in the world cannot buy you back good health.” Reba McEntire
An ancient Tibetan healing symbol used in healing temples to strengthen your Reiki energy, to provide specific kinds of healing for different types of problems, and to enhance meditation and all forms of prayer or spiritual endeavors.
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The following entities have officially recognized MCS as a physical impairment, disability, and/or illness:
A MESSAGE FROM ARMYNEL SOBRIQUET*
It is a call to action by the Congress, the White House, and the Executive Branch, urging them to fund a national epidemiological study on the causes of toxic chemical injury to humans. Under the General Welfare Clause of the U.S. Constitution, Congress has an obligation to provide for the promotion and protection of public health and for the public welfare of the citizens. The laws and regulations need to be revamped to reflect the new science that shows, for example, small exposures to mixtures of organic/toxic chemicals found in everyday consumer products can cause cellular damage to the human body. For example, epidemiological studies show that contaminants found in many consumer products are associated with lowered sperm counts and/or sperm damage. In other instances, the science shows increased neurological damage due to exposure to these contaminants.
Chemical injury needs to be recognized as causing substantial personal injury or substantial illness during exposure to toxicants that are volatilized into the air (e.g., fragrances) or carried in the foods (e.g., pesticides). Everyone alive today has a toxic chemical body burden of at least 700 contaminants according to recent studies. Illnesses due to toxic chemical injury range from a simple headache, cognitive confusion, to brain damage, cancer, and death. You are encouraged to use the language in the following pages to submit as a petition of redress of grievances on this matter. Thank you for taking any kind of action to make our world a healthier and safer place to ensure happiness and less suffering.
* FYI, Armynel Sobriquet is a sobriquet (an assumed nickname); Armynel is French for “Warrior Woman.”
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Petitioning a democratic government is a good thing. It is a right guaranteed by the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which specifically prohibits the Congress from abridging “the right of the people…to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.” Yet, due to many power plays, that right has been complicated by our modern society to put it mildly. Having pointed this out, most Canaries feel a real urgent sense to file a grievance with the hope that they will be heard. As such, a petition was posted on May 12, 2014, on www.thepetitionsite.com. It is reprinted here for your perusal. May you peruse it well and feel motiviated to sign it.
PETITION [Name] [Mailing Address] [Date] Dear [***] In accordance with Title 5, Section 553(e) and Section 551 as defining a “person” to include “an individual”; and In accordance with The Constitution of the United States, we ask that the Federal Government of the United States of America establish, insure, provide, and promote the general Welfare of its citizens by taking the lead to educate and promote awareness of toxic injury caused by, and causing a body burden of, chemicals found in everyday consumer products through executive order, proclamations, and programs funded by the Congress for the general welfare as follows: (1) In accordance with recent research, draft and pass bills for Congress and the Executive Branch to revisit all laws that are outdated and have not kept up with the body of new science that shows that small exposures to mixtures of organic/toxic chemicals can cause cellular changes to the human body. Exposure to these toxicants can cause teratogenic, respiratory, gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, hepatic, renal, and neurological effects. They can also lead to various forms of cancer as well as learning disabilities. Such effects can occur after short-term (acute) or long-term (chronic) exposure, depending on the toxicity of the chemicals. It is currently held that once toxic chemical injury set in, there is no cure; there is only non-exposure to the toxicant(s).
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Only a small percentage of chemicals out of over 80,000 found in commerce are tested. Thousands more are being added each year. About 15,000 have been tested, producing estimates of potential risks from exposure. However, each chemical was tested individually rather than in combination. In the real world, individuals are exposed to a cocktail of toxicants on a daily and nightly basis. These chemicals need to be tested in combination, starting with fragrances.
PETITION Scientists estimate that everyone carries within him or her at least 700 contaminants (mostly toxicants) whether we live in the country, suburbs, or city. We have become a receptacle for a multitude of industrial chemicals (such as pesticides, dioxins, furans, toluene, formaldehyde, phthalates, PCBs, VOCs, etc., not to mention that many of these toxic chemicals often coat the surface of dust particles (a daily event). All such laws and regulations need to be carefully promulgated on the grounds that they promote the general welfare. (2) Make it mandatory for manufacturers to list the chemicals used in fragrances. Since most perfumes are compositions of chemicals, they should be patented under Class 512 so that consumers can determine if they are reactive to any of the chemicals or chemical mix to avoid toxic chemical injury. Fragrances should no longer be held as proprietary by the chemical/fragrance industry. 3) For the Executive Branch to continue and expand actions adopted by Federal agencies such as the U.S. Social Security Administration, the Centers for Disease Control, the U.S. Access Board, etc. for implementing Fragrance-Free/No Smoking Zones without harassment or hindrance. These agencies deserve exemplary recognition. Further, to recognize States that have issued proclamations to raise awareness of toxic encephalopathy, chemical injury, multiple chemical sensitivities, toxic chemical injury, and the like. (4) There is a need for public policy on chemical exposure. A national debate for a cohesive public policy for the welfare of a people is a moral imperative similar to climate change, for chemical exposure is increasingly identified as one of the major crises facing the international community in the 21stcentury.
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From the authors of Chemical Exposures: Low Levels and High Stakes, Nicholas A. Ashford and Claudia S. Miller (1998, John Wiley & Sons, Inc., Canada),�We are at a critical crossroads to do something significant about the groundswell of activity that requires in-depth and thoughtful
PETITION attention to chemical sensitivity. Chemical exposures are endemic to our modern industrial society. Public policy needs to focus on two distinct groups of individuals who suffer from [toxic chemical injury]…. There are those individuals who could be sensitized as a result of an initiating exposure, and there are those individuals who have already become sensitized and now report sensitivities to chemicals at extremely low levels. Regulations and policies need to be developed to prevent sensitization of individuals in the first place. Sensitizing events occur in domestic indoor, recreational centers, workplaces, and shops such as exposure to classical sensitizers such as toluene diisocyanate or to solvents….” From the World Health Organization, “air pollution is the number one cause of cancer.” Air pollution seeps into rivers, is carried by dust, lands on food crops. and enters the soil. The economic cost of such pollution is staggering as it affects health resources, productivity, and the like. We do not need to find ourselves in a similar situation as China’s current toxic air pollution which is impeding phytosynthesis and weakening food supplies. This year a leading Chinese scientist reports evidence that China’s toxic air pollution, if it persists, will resemble somewhat nuclear winter (He Dongxian, China Agricultural University, College of Water Resources and Civil Engineering). The traditional view of air pollution, focused principally in vehicular exhausts and smokestack emissions, must know be broadened to include toxins/toxicants found in consumer products and indoor air pollution.
(5) Conduct legitimate epidemiological studies, free from special interest tethers.
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A benchmark study conducted in 2004, “Prevalence of Multiple Chemical Sensitivities: A Population-Based Study in the Southeastern United States by Drs. Stanley M. Caress and Anne C. Steinemann, needs to be expanded. The abstract of the aforementioned study is as follows: “We examined the prevalence of multiple chemical sensitivities (MCS), a hypersensitivity to common chemical substances. We used a randomly selected sample of 1582 respondents from the Atlanta, GA, standard metropolitan statistical areal. We found that 1.6% of our sample reported the
PETITION hypersensitivity and that, while the hypersensitivity is more common in women, it is experienced by both men and women of a variety of ages and educational levels. Our prevalence for MCS is similar to that (15.9%) found by the California Department of Health Services in California and suggests that the national prevalence may be similar.” In 1981, the National Academy of Sciences reported that 15% of the American population could have a heightened sensitivity to chemicals.” Conservatively, this could easily mean that approximately 47.6 million Americans in 2014 are suffering from across the spectrum of chemical injury. According to the Northwest ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) Center, approximately 140 million Americans suffer from some form of toxic chemical injury and exposure that it is “the fastest growing segment of the disabled population.” Those diagnosed with toxic chemical injury are not being protected, and their basic civil rights are being denied. Ensure that scientific studies are well-founded, well–formulated, and well-funded; that these studies be broadened to include other illnesses linked to chemical injury—toxic encephalopathy, asthma, Alzheimer, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, and the like; and that these studies explore the physiological origins of chemical injury as well as any psychological origins stemming from chemical injury. Anecdotal evidence is to be used only to communicate what has been supported by evidence-based medicine and scientific evidence shorn of any cognitive bias.
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It is imperative that funds from any chemical industry are not used with the expectant result that the origins are psychological in nature rather than physiological. Past and current tendencies to dismiss these disorders, illnesses, or diseases as psychological in origin should not be allowed to obscure findings of compromised human body filtering organs such as liver, kidneys, spleen, urinary bladder, lymphatic vessels as more and more studies now recognize toxic chemical injury.
PETITION Moreover, international studies should be included in such studies as original sourcing material. The current confusion as to the cause(s) of substantial personal injury or substantial illness needs to be resolved so that the proper health services can be administered for the health and welfare of the citizenry. Too much medical attention is on symptoms in lieu of causes. Chemical injury needs to be recognized as causing substantial personal injury or substantial illness “during or as a proximate result of any customary or reasonably foreseeable handing or use, including reasonably foreseeable ingestion” by skin or mouth (C.P.S.C. regulation).
Research in the past decade has shown that illnesses can be traced back to an overload of toxicity, creating chemical body burdens in individuals, and exposed communities through the manufacture, processing, interstate transportation, consumption of these toxicants in commercially available products. (6) Encourage each State to join in the effort to promote and fund without limitation for the general welfare of the Nation. (7) To secure the blessings of [natural] liberty to ourselves and our posterity, recognize that liberty comes at a cost. Whether it deals with the relationship between individuals and a civil society or with the relationship between the States and the Federal government, there is no relationship to be had if a law and implementing regulations results in selfish benefits for a few at the expense of the whole. “Ourselves and our posterity” applies to individuals who make up the citizenry of a State and a country. Consequently, recognize that the health of the entire population of the United States is at risk from chemical exposures because low toxic levels can lead to illnesses that may be preventable through reduction or avoidance of chemicals in the air water, soil, food in both the indoor and outdoor environment.
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The moral obligation to protect the health of ourselves and our posterity must ensure equal treatment for everybody in need of health care and a healthy environment, free from political opposition, since we are all in it together. In the words of one of the founding father and first President, George Washington, “the independence and liberty [we] posses are the work of joint
PETITION Efforts, of common dangers, suffering and successes.� Carrying for the health of a Nation by avoiding exposure or effectively restricting the use of toxicants is precautionary, progressive, a preventive measure, and not a privilege but a basic right. I have given full consideration to, and agree with, the statements in this petition, with any additional notations as noted by me, as being of great concern. Sincerely,
[Signature]
For the addresses to mail this petition, go to—
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http://maskedcanaries.wordpress.com/action-request/2014-petition-to-u-s-congress-executive-branch/
Get your State Governor and/or the U.S. President to declare/proclaim a Toxic Injury Awareness, Education & Prevention Month. The following is a sample prepared by The “MCS” Beacon of Hope Foundation in 2011. There are officially signed samples available on the WWW. National Toxic Injury Awareness, Education and Prevention Proclamation WHEREAS: people of all ages throughout the world have developed Toxic Injury, illnesses, and disabilities from toxic exposures. WHEREAS: Toxic Injury is often characterized by medical intolerance to very small amounts of air pollution, petrochemicals, mold and other toxins found in homes, schools, work places, our everyday products and environment. It can be caused by acute or chronic exposure to one or more chemicals, pesticides, and solvents. WHEREAS: Toxic Injury may include multiple, often disabling illnesses and can be life threatening.
WHEREAS: The prevalence of these illnesses and the lack of knowledge and qualified doctors clearly warrant further education in this field for the public in general, future as well as practicing doctors, dentists, rescue personnel as well as other health care, social service, rehabilitation, housing, architects, HVAC designers and installers, building maintenance and cleaning personnel, school and employer/supervisory persons at schools, work places and public facilities and pest control personnel. “Applied Knowledge is Power” and that Power can save precious lives! WHEREAS: There are diagnostic codes readily available for toxic effects of many chemicals found in our everyday environment and surroundings. WHEREAS: Those suffering with Toxic Injury deserve the same rights, acknowledgment, respect, support and help allotted to other illnesses & disabilities.
[PROVIDE UP-TO-DATE STATISTICAL DATA]
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FIGHTING FOR RECOGNITION
WHEREAS: Toxic Injury is a chronic debilitating condition causing serious financial, employment, learning, housing, health, social and other consequences.
SUPPLEMENTS 8
World Health Organization, Media Centre, Fact sheet No. 292, updated March 2014, “Household air pollution and health”
| www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs292/en/ World Health Organization, International Agency for Research on Cancer, Press Release No. 221, 17 October 2013, “IARC: Outdoor air pollution a leading environmental cause of cancer deaths” | www.iarc.fr/en/media-
centre/pr/2013/pdfs/pr221_#.pdf
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U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, “ICD-10-CM Classification Enhancements” | http://www.cms.gov/Medicare/Coding/ICD10/downloads/ICD-10QuickRefer.pdf “ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines for Coding and Reporting; 2014” http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/icd/icd10cm_guidelines_2014.pdf | www.icd10data.com/ICD10CM/Codes
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WebMD provides an explanation of Multiple Chemical Sensitivity, keeping it controversial. http://www.webmd.com/allergies/multiple-chemical-sensitivity. The U.S. National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health provides the scientific literature from the environmental health perspectives. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1469808/, The Chemical Injury Information Netowork provides information to its members. It provides medical and legal briefs as listed in the following link: http://ciin.org/medical_and_legal.html. Last but not least, from the Chemical Sensitivity Foundation, http://www.mcsrr.org/1999Defn.pdf. Check out the American Academy of Environmental Medicine, http://www.aaemonline.org/practiceguidelines.html http://www.aaemonline.org/links.html http://www.mcsrr.org/resources/bibliography/index.html
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Keep searching as new data keeps popping up with valid findings as well as suspect findings.
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From the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS),“Self-Reported Exposures and Health Status Among Workers from the Exxon Valdez Oil Spill Cleanup” by Annie K. O’Neill, B.S. University of Notre Dame, 2001, a Thesis presented to the Faculty of the Department of Epidemiooogy and Public Health, Yale University is available to download at http://seek.niehs.nih.gov/texis/search/?dropXSL=&pr=internetall&prox=page&rorder=500&rprox=500&rdfreq=500&rwfreq=500&rlead=500&order=r&rdepth=0&query=chemical+sensitiv ity Also available, “Visionary Ideas: Affected/Susceptible Populations” on autism, breast cancer, chemically injured, etc. http://www.niehs.nih.gov/about/strategicplan/visionary-ideas/affected-susceptible-populations/index.cfm
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“An Evaluation of the Irritant Potential of CS Aerosols on Human Skin Under Tropical Climatic Conditions,”
http://www.dtic.mil/dtic/tr/fulltext/u2/853967.pdf “Standardization Related to Biological and Chemical Threat Agents,” publication of the ANSI Homeland Standards Panel, December 2004 http://www.docstoc.com/docs/133096249/Bio-Chem-Report
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FM/CFS/ME Resources
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http://fmcfsme.com/doctor_database.php
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Information and Technical Assistance on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a resource on the implementation rules and guidelines of the ADA. Regulations are as follows: http://www.ada.gov/regs2010/titleIII_2010/titleIII_2010_regulations.pdf | http://www.ada.gov/ | http://www.ada.gov/regs2010/titleIII_2010/titleIII_2010_regulations.htm#supp_info It should be noted that the U.S. Department of Justice has made it difficult to have MCS and related illnesses recognized as a disability by not including specific provisions addressing MCS. Nonetheless, it does state in the preamble that, “in order to be viewed as a disability under the ADA, an impairment (MCS?) must substantially limit one or more major life activities. An individual’s major life activities of respiratory or neurological functioning may be substantially limited by allergies or sensitivity to a degree that he or she is a person with a disability.” herefore, it is important to consider using other medical terminology that proves that one’s illness that substantially limits a person in one or more major life activities! To quote supplemental information on the final rule published on September 15, 2010, regarding 28 CFR Part 36, Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Disability in Pubic Accommodations and Commercial Facilities, making it more difficult to assign MCS as a disability, except on a case-by-case basis.
“Multiple chemical sensitivities. The Department received comments from a number of individuals asking the Department to add specific language to the final rule addressing the needs of individuals with chemical sensitivities. These commenters expressed concern that the presence of chemicals interferes with their ability to participate in a wide range of activities. These commenters also urged the Department to add multiple chemical sensitivities to the definition of a disability….
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“The Department has determined not to include specific provisions addressing multiple chemical sensitivities in the final rule. In order to be viewed as a disability under the ADA, an impairment must substantially limit one or more major life activities. An individual's major life activities of respiratory or neurological functioning may be substantially limited by allergies or sensitivity to a degree that he or she is a person with a disability. When a person has this type of disability, a covered entity may have to make reasonable modifications in its policies and practices for that person. However, this determination is an individual assessment and must be made on a case-by-case basis…
“Many commenters asked that environmental illness (also known as multiple chemical sensitivity) as well as allergy to cigarette smoke be recognized as disabilities. The Department, however, declines to state categorically that these types of allergies or sensitivities are disabilities, because the determination as to whether an impairment is a disability depends on whether, given the particular circumstances at issue, the impairment substantially limits one or more major life activities (or has a history of, or is regarded as having such an effect)….”
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STUDY: “Whose in Danger” Race, Poverty, and Chemical Disasters, a Demographic Analysis of Chemical Disaster Vulerability Zones,” Environmental Justice and Health Alliance for Chemical Policy Reform, May 2014.
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http://comingcleaninc.org/assets/media/images/Reports/Who's%20in%20Danger%20Report%20and%20Table%20FINAL.p df
SUPPLEMENTS 20 |
This cartoon makes reference to toxic encephalopathy. In this case, Sophie has been exposed to strong sensitizers in common household products. Exposure to toxic substances can lead to a variety of symptoms, characterized by an altered mental status, memory los, and visual problems. Toxic encephalopathy can be caused by various chemicals of which are commonly used in everyday life. Toxic encephalopathy can permanently damage the brain. “Encephalopathy” is a general term that describes brain malfunctions. “Toxic” asserts that the malfunction is caused by toxins on the brain. A wide variety of symptoms from toxic encephalopathy includes memory loss, small personality changes, increased irritability, insidious onset of concentration difficulties, involuntary movements, fatigue, seizures, arm strength problems, and depression.
Harmful chemicals, found in everyday products, such as cleaning products, building materials, pesticides, air fresheners, and perfumes, can cause harm if inhaled (e.g., air fresheners) or .applied (e.g., perfumes, body lotions, shampoos). Generally, Western medicine seems to mainly treat the symptoms. Eastern medicine looks at the causes more directly—the filtration system of kidneys, liver, gallbladder, spleen, etc., to bring balance back to the organs that are being overworked. Diet changes and nutritional supplements may help some Canaries. In severe cases, dialysis or organ replacement may be necessary.
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Currently, the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke as well as other organizations are doing research on what substances can cause encephalopathy, why they do this; and eventually, how to protect, treat, and cure the brain from this condition.
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Dryer vents releases approximately 600 potentially dangerous chemicals into the air, according to Dr. Mercola. “The scent is unmistakable…the familiar ‘“clean”’ scent of fabric softeners actually comes from a deceptively toxic blend of chemicals that have escaped and are silently contributing to a number of health problems for unsuspecting consumers…First, gas dryer exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an odorless gas posing well-known health dangers, depending on the concentration in which it’s inhaled….But detergents and fabric softeners are commonplace as well; and as your clothing dries, these vapor are released into your house and out into the neighborhood—in a chemical cloud.”
For more information, go to—
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http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2012/04/26/toxins-from-laundry-products-emitted-from-dryer-vent.aspx
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Christy De Vader of Loyola University of Maryland published in the “Journal of Management and Marketing Research” a paper on what managers need to know about fragrance in the workplace. To quote the abstract on her paper, she wrote-It took decades for the workplace to acknowledge the dangers of smoking and to recognize the deadly effects of exposure to second-hand smoke. Once acknowledged, it was a few more years before the workplace became safe for workers from the dangers of second hand smoke. This paper suggests that fragrance is following the same trajectory. To date most of the research on fragrance exposure has been localized in the health care profession and has not received the necessary attention it deserves in the management literature for managers to become knowledgeable about the extent of employer liability and what constitutes a good faith effort to protect workers. This paper addresses the relevant laws and subsequent court cases and the legal liability they create for employers with employees exposed to synthetic fragrance in the workplace. Recommendations are also provided for organizations who want to demonstrate a good faith effort and be proactive by addressing fragrance. The final section describes how to develop a fragrance–free workplace policy.
Her paper covers such topics as resistance, health risks, cost to employers, common products with fragrance, employment laws, and recommendations, including developing a fragrance-free workplace policy.
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For more information, go to-http://www.aabri.com/manuscripts/09244.pdf Fragrance-free Workplaces: http://www.chemicalsensitivityfoundation.org/fragrance-free-workplaces.html Other sites FYI: http://www.businessmanagementdaily.com/19477/accommodating-fragrance-sensitivity-in-theworkplace | http://workplaceinsiders.com/2011/09/27/the-fragrance-free-workplace/ | http://askjan.org/media/fragrance.html | http://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/hsprograms/scent_free.html There are more. Use http://duckduckgo.com for your searches.
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“Brain may never fully recover from exposure to paint, glue, degreasers� (May 12, 2014, American Academy of Neurology (AAN)) A STUDY:
People who are exposed to paint, glue or degreaser fumes at work may experience memory and thinking problems in retirement, decades after their exposure, according to a study published in the May 13, 2014, print issue of NeurologyÂŽ, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology. "Our findings are particularly important because exposure to solvents is very common, even in industrialized countries like the United States." said study author Erika L. Sabbath, ScD, of Harvard School of Public Health in Boston. "Solvents pose a real risk to the present and future cognitive health of workers, and as retirement ages go up, the length of time that people are exposed is going up, too."
The study involved 2,143 retirees from the French national utility company. Researchers assessed the workers' lifetime exposure to chlorinated solvents, petroleum solvents, and benzene, including the timing of last exposure and lifetime dosage. Benzene is used to make plastics, rubber, dye, detergents and other synthetic materials. Chlorinated solvents can be found in dry cleaning solutions, engine cleaners, paint removers and degreasers. Petroleum solvents are used in carpet glue, furniture polishes, paint, paint thinner and varnish. Of the participants, 26 percent were exposed to benzene, 33 percent to chlorinated solvents and 25 percent to petroleum solvents.
The average lifetime solvent exposure was determined based on historical company records, and the participants were categorized as having no exposure, moderate exposure if they had less than the average and high exposure if they had higher than the average. They were also divided by when the last exposure occurred, with those last exposed from 12 to 30 years prior to the testing considered as recent exposure and those last exposed 31 to 50 years prior considered as more distant exposure.
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Participants took eight tests of their memory and thinking skills an average of 10 years after they had retired, when they were an average age of 66. A total of 59 percent of the participants had impairment on one to three of the eight tests; 23 percent had impairment on four or more tests; 18 percent had no impaired scores.
52| KOCH (PRONOUNCE COKE) For obvious reasons, the Koch brothers, Charles and David, are Koch Industries. Their collective fortune as of 2014 is above $100 billion according to Bloomberg News. As majority stakeholders in Koch Industries, the secondlargest privately held company in the United States after Cargill, Inc. They produce, among other contaminants, the following toxicants:
See http://www.inspirationgreen.com/koch-brothers-products.html
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* Gasoline * Diesel * Jet fuel * Naphtha * Asphalt * Benzene * Toluene * Metaxylene * Paraxylene * Orthoxylene * Cumene * Cycohexane * Heavy reformate * Pseudocumene * Sure Sol 速 100 * Sure Sol 速 150 * Purified Isophthalic Acid * Maleic Anhydride * Trimellitic Anhydride * Ethylene * Chemical Grade Propylene * Polypropylene * Polyethylene
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There are a number of pioneer medical doctors who, among themselves, have had to deal with MCS in their personal lives: Drs. Ann MacCampbell, L. Christine Oliver, Stephen Levin, Ronald R. Blank, William J. Meggs, Ann Steinmann, Grace Zeim, Dr. Joseph Mercola, Kevin Soden, Lisa Lavine Nagy, etc., including advocates Alison Johnson, Karen McDonell….(not an all inclusive list of names). Some links are— http://present.knowledgevision.com/account/kv-pr/subaccount/vpm/link/Nagy_Penn_Feb2012
http://site.infowest.com/business/g/gentle/mcs.html. http://annmccampbell.com/publicationswritings/publication-1/. http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2008/07/10/no-one-is-safe-from-chemical-overload.aspx http://www.toxipedia.org/pages/viewpage.action?pageId=3933271 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2ZF37YmrpYs&list=PLaKOFZLWkp6w9E8glBP68KcatGn1citxF
Then there is Stephen Barrett, M.D., who in 1998 supported the spin that MCS is a bogus illness: It “is not a legitimate diagnosis” and people diagnosed with MCS “have a psychosomatic disorder in which they react to stress by developing multiple symptoms….” His report came out before a clinical consensus criteria on MCS was adopted as a viable medical condition. http://www.quackwatch.com/01QuackeryRelatedTopics/mcs.pdf
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He’s just the beginning of medical professionals bought by the chemical industry.
148 | STUDY:
“Humans experiencing increased exposure to aluminium and its predicted to get worse” (August 27, 2013, Keele University) Aluminium - the most abundant metal and third most abundant element of the Earth’s crust - has no known biological function and is a recognised environmental toxin. Human exposure to aluminium is implicated in a number of chronic diseases, including bone disease, auto-immune conditions, cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. In an invited Perspective on Human Exposure to Aluminium, published in the Royal Society of Chemistry journal Environmental Science: Processes and Impact, Professor Christopher Exley, Professor of Bioinorganic Chemistry at Keele University, describes the holistic view of living in the Aluminium Age and the implications for the human body burden of aluminium. Human exposure to aluminium has increased at least 30-fold over the last 50 years and is burgeoning, with currently 11 kg of aluminium metal being cast for every person on Earth each year! The great majority of this aluminium is newly extracted from its ores, as opposed to recycled, and it all has the potential at least to impact upon and accumulate within the human body. Professor Exley provides a more complete definition of what actually constitutes the body burden of aluminium in humans and most importantly the potential for such to impact upon human health. Professor Exley recognises that the Aluminium Age is, for now at least, here to stay and that for aluminium to continue to be used effectively and safely in our everyday lives it is of paramount importance that we recognise both its power for good and its potential to do harm where its applications are not fully understood or its safety has not been adequately tested. “We cannot continue to be complacent about human exposure to aluminium. While the genie is out of the bottle, we do still have several wishes remaining and we should strive to use these to live safely and prosperously in the aluminium age,” he said.
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Journal Reference: Christopher Exley. Human Exposure to Aluminium. Environmental Science: Processes & Impacts, 2013; DOI:10.1039/C3EM00374D
cognitive problems in those who had been highly exposed much longer ago, up to 50 years before testing. This suggests that time may not fully lessen the effect of solvent exposure on some memory and cognitive skills when lifetime exposure is high." Sabbath said the results may have implications for policies on workplace solvent exposure limits. "Of course, the first goal is protecting the cognitive health of individual workers. But protecting workers from exposure could also benefit organizations, payers, and society by reducing workers' post-retirement health care costs and enabling them to work longer," said Sabbath. "That said, retired workers who have had prolonged exposure to solvents during their career may benefit from regular cognitive screening to catch problems early, screening and treatment for heart problems that can affect cognitive health, or mentally stimulating activities like learning new skills." Story Source: The above story is based on materials provided by American Academy of Neurology (AAN). Note: Materials may
be edited for content and length.
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Journal Reference: E. L. Sabbath, L.-A. Gutierrez, C. A. Okechukwu, A. Singh-Manoux, H. Amieva, M. Goldberg, M. Zins, C. Berr. Time may not fully attenuate solvent-associated cognitive deficits in highly exposed workers. Neurology, 2014; 82 (19): 1716 DOI:10.1212/WNL.0000000000000413
SUPPLEMENTS 30 |
“Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Roundtable Discussion” As early as 1916, military British physicians first noted that those solders had developed chemical sensitivities due to exposure of mustard gas, chlorine, etc. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kA2oHnjTW7Y
40 | THE STORY OF CHANEL No.5 – “For the first time – Inside CHANEL.” The first synthetic fragrance.
We may like the
mysterious, but not if it s magic is hurtful in the long run. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tRQa33dqyxI
36/68 | “Tyrone Haynes:
The Toxic Baby: TED TALKS.” Filmmaker Penelope Jagessar Chaffer was curious about the chemicals she was exposed to while pregnant: Could they affect her unborn child? So she asked scientist Tyrone Hayes to brief her on one he studied closely: atrazine, a herbicide used on corn. (Hayes, an expert on amphibians, is a critic of atrazine, which displays a disturbing effect on frog development.) Onstage together at TEDWomen, Hayes and Chaffer tell their story.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-omq_-WBDlo
43 | “Toxins in Everyday Household Products with Dr. Anne Steinemann”(Invisible Disabilities Association). A discussion with Radio Host, Lynn Argent of Living in a Chemical Soup. about chemicals that create fragrances in everyday household and personal care products such as cleaning supplies, laundry detergent, fabric softener, dryer sheets, shampoo, soap, deodorant and more. A serious issue for those reporting adverse reactions (Environmental Illness, Multiple Chemical Sensitivity, Chemical Injury, Toxic Encephalopathy). http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rhIP2zpVpoA
68 | “A Wake-Up Story.” A must-see video for every parent and anyone that cares about the health and development of children. Watch it. Share it.
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http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5vAVkv1LBx8
OTHER videos “Multiple Chemical Sensitivity: How Chemical Exposures May Be Affecting Your Health”, revised 2004
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r8lCXbPwg1k | “Multiple Chemical Sensitivity, a Life-Altering Condition” http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aJuBuXXMaiA | “Amputated Lives: Coping with Chemical Sensitivity” http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yBFN1M8WbS8 | “Choose Friendships Over Fragrances – Chemical Sensitivities”
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lu0_wP5hxyo | “Chemical Sensitivity and Injury: Interview with Dr. Grace Ziem” http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xvrMeuzsDWk | “Fundamental Chemical Toxicology with Exposure related to Shale Gas Development – David Brown, ScD http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AhkswtBom4s
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“Methods Taught for Diagnosis and Treatment of Chemical Sensitivity and Many Chronic Illnesses by the American Academy of Environmental Medicine” http://present.knowledgevision.com/account/kv-pr/subaccount/vpm/link/Nagy_Penn_Feb2012
AMA
American Medical Association.
Bitstrips
www.bitstrips.com Instant comics as a more fun and visual way to communicate with friends.
CFS
Cystic fibrosis, a disease that affects the entire body.
Chemical Injury/Sensitivity
Common understanding of chemical injury is when a chemical ‘s exposure is due to major spills (e.g., BP in the Gulf of Mexico, and the Exxon oil spill in Arkansas in 2013, etc.). However, chemical injury and sensitivity can happen at any time by any product that contains a toxin or a cocktail of toxins. With daily exposure to various products containing toxicants, the chances of injury/sensitivity become are heighten.
FM
Fibromyalgia, a chronic condition causing widespread pain and profound fatigue.
HIPAA
The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996. Title II requires the establishment of national standards for electronic health care transactions and national identifies for providers, health insurance plans, and employers.
Idiopathic
Of unknown cause or arising spontaneously. Any disease that is of uncertain or unknown origin may be termed idiopathic.
Mayday, mayday, mayday
An international emergency procedure word as a distress signal that means “come help me” (venez m’aider). It is a signal reserved for mariners and aviators; however, in some countries, it is used by police forces, firefighters, and transportation organizations. A false distress call in the United States is a federal crime carrying sanctions of up to six years imprisonment and/or a fine of up to $250,000 and restitution to the U.S. Coast Guard. As used in the publication, It is a call to recognize that life on earth is “in grave and imminent threat requiring immediate assistance” from a medical problem that remains “deliberately” confused by governments and industries in the name of saving the economy over a healthy welfare.
MCS
Multiple Chemical Sensitivities. Refer to page 177.
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ABBREVIATIONS/TERMS
ME
Myalgic Encephalomyelitis involves muscle aches or pain and inflammation of the brain and spinal cord.
NIEHS
National Institute of Environmental Sciences
pan-pan medico
A French term that indicates an urgent situation of a lower order than “mayday, mayday, mayday.�
Toxic Injury
A toxic injury is a type of injury caused by toxin. Toxic injuries can cause teratogenic effects, respiratory effects, gastrointestinal effects, hepatic effects, and neurological effects. The can also lead to various forms of cancer or learning disability. The effects can occur after acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term) exposure, depending on the toxicity of the substance, the amount of time of exposure, life-style, etc. There are thousands of causes of toxic injuries. Some causes are still unknown. Generally, there are two different categories in which a toxic injury may fall into: due to an environmental toxin or due to chemical exposure.
Those who suffer from MCS are at greater risk of toxic injury. Anyone can be at risk of MCS due to the bombardment of pollutants in our indoor and outdoor air. A toxicant is any toxic substance in popular usage. However, the term is used to denote substances made by humans or introduced into the environment by human activity, in contrast to toxins which are toxicants produced naturally by a living organism.
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Toxicant
Volatile organic compounds are organic chemicals that have a high vapor pressure at ordinary room temperature. Their high vapor pressure results from a low boiling point, which causes large numbers of molecules to evaporate or sublimate from the liquid or solid form of the compound and enter the surrounding air. VOCs are numerous, varied, and ubiquitous. They include both human-made and naturally occurring chemical compounds. Most scents or odors are of VOCs
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VOCs
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