Chemicals Causing Cancer in Clothing and Toys

Researchers have found that carcinogenic chemicals are present in more than 85% of the products used in their study, including headphones, plastic toys, and clothing. Their findings reveal that chlorinated paraffins, a carcinogenic substance that was banned in Canada a decade ago, are still found in a wide range of everyday products. Assistant professor of chemistry at the University of Toronto, Hui Bing, stated, "We need to protect our children and the wider public from these harmful substances." Experts point out that "short-chain chlorinated paraffins cause cancer in laboratory mice, specifically targeting the liver, thyroid, and kidneys. Although there are no studies on humans, the International Agency for Research on Cancer classifies them as possible carcinogens for humans. They also accumulate in our bodies, food webs, and the environment." There are three classifications of chlorinated paraffins: short-chain (SCCP), medium-chain (MCCP), and long-chain (LCCP). In 2017, short-chain chlorinated paraffins were listed for disposal under the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants.