Study Finds Toxic Dust Samples in 7 States
(San Francisco, Health-AP, 3/23/05)

Nine environmental groups sponsored a study dubbed “Sick of Dust” that analyzed dust samples from 70 homes in seven states. The investigators found 35 hazardous commercial chemicals, highlighting the need for stronger government regulation to protect Americans from exposure to a variety toxins that people may unwittingly bring into their homes in seemingly benign everyday products like shower curtains, frying pans and computers. The researchers say that the chemicals, while legal, are harmful, especially to young children, but the American Chemistry Council disputes this conclusion, claiming that low levels of these substances do not necessarily pose a health risk.