I do a lot of scientific research in my field of cybersecurity but occasionally I come across a study in other areas which are also important. While I’m fairly familiar with printed circuit boards (PCB) used in computerized devices, which are proliferating at a great pace in businesses and homes, and may create security and privacy issues, but the PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyl compounds) referred to in this article are dangerously life altering. Physically and mentally.
You know I write about international threats caused by malicious denizens of the Internet, most of which, no matter how persistent, are cured relatively quickly. I just had to share this shocking threat that could persist in your very own home 24 x 7 x 365 for decades and is not so simple to cure, if at all, and may explain why the community is having serious problems that have recently become our top concerns. Please read on:
It’s likely the last place you would expect to find cancer-causing chemicals but scientists at the University of Iowa tested air samples from inside and outside 16 homes in the state. The researchers found kitchen cabinets can contain high levels of three polychlorinated biphenyl compounds (PCBs). The toxins are listed as a human carcinogen by the World Health Organization and can release cancer-causing chemicals. When the sealant (glue) used in the cupboards breaks down over time it releases the banned toxins.
PCBs are classified by the World Health Organization as known human carcinogens. Their manufacture was banned in the US and UK four decades ago.
They were mass produced by Monsanto, the US agricultural giant, for 42 years before the decision was made to stop doing so. Monsanto has been embroiled in controversy after documents apparently showed it was aware of the deadly risks 10 years before PCBs were banned. Studies have shown that PCBs, of which there are around 210 variations, can alter liver function can even affect fertility and are also linked to learning difficulties in children.
They discovered levels of three PCBs, which were banned for use in goods in 1979 in America, were higher than expected. Concentrations were higher in newer houses than older ones, which were more likely to use PCB producing goods. Upon closer inspection, they also found emissions coming from stoves, floors and walls.
Professor Keri Hornbuckle’s team also spotted PCBs wafting off the finished kitchen cabinetry.
They believe that the toxins stem from the decomposition of 2,4-dichlorobenzoyl peroxide, a common ingredient in sealants.
Over 1 million tons of PCBs were produced before they were banned – and some scientists estimate a third of this has leaked into the environment.
The experiment monitored air samples over a period of 16 weeks, reveal this previously unknown source of PCBS. Professor Hornbuckle and colleagues published their results in the scientific journal Environmental Science & Technology. They received funding from the Superfund Research Program of the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences.
Ron Benvenisti
Principal Security Consultant
Has anyone tested the buildings in Lakewood? There were problems with substandard materials especially imported from overseas, China. Do inspectors test for this? Asbestos, mold? Scary stuff. Who’s in charge? I’m afraid to ask. I’m, BH, now a mother of 6, some of the kids have “issues” that the doctors hand out medication like candy to “fix”. Maybe this has something to do with it. Thanks. Maybe some students at Rutgers or Monmouth could do a project here in Ocean-Monmouth in conjunction with Iowa university. Why not? This is sooooo important.
laminate flooring was a concern as well, I believe
So what can we do to find out if our houses contain these toxic substances?
This is a very irresponsible post. This is especially true because you only quote parts of this study.
This study found these problems in homes and cabinets built in the past FIVE YEARS. Five years is not nearly long enough to “explain why our community is having serious problems which recently have become our top concern”.
It is not clear AT ALL that the amount of PCBs found are actually harmful or that the way people would’ve come in contact with these PCBs would be dangerous or have any of these harmful effects.
This is a new study that has just been published. A lot more research is needed.
Most people don’t know the proper way to view such studies and therefore publishing it with such fear mongering is very irresponsible.
If anyone is concerned they should speak to a qualified medical professional.
I totally believe it. Me moved into a new home a few years ago and I’m feeling unwell since. Old homes might have other issues like mold or metal pipes, and lead paint, but new houses have plenty of toxic materials too. Carpets, for example can be made out of very unhealthy materials and after a short time are full of dust mites! Spray foam in the attic can be extremely toxic and new homes don’t breathe as well as older homes.
There is a movement called healthy building (LEED). It is basically the equivalent of healthy eating. It takes some effort, but is not too hard. For now, make sure there is plenty of fresh air in your home, and don’t have a cordless phone base near where anyone spends much time – as it blasts out radiation 24/7.
For years I am so so so nauseous from the slight odor my kitchen cabinets are emitting. I am so relieved to hear someone has experienced this. My family is saying it’s in my head while I know when I leave just for a few days I feel so so so much better. My personality and well being becomes alive again and I feel so relieved. I beg Hashem to help me cope with this odor that does not seem to bother others yet drives me insane and hopefully finally to switch them to a non pcb cabinet.