about this participant:

Kathy Fowler, a broadcast journalist from Rockville, MD, participated in the 2005 biomonitoring investigation entitled "EWG Study #3, industrial chemicals and pesticides in adults." She gave blood for the study at age 36.

Location:

Rockville, MD

Participant's groups:

Women of Childbearing Age, Female, Adult

Study:

EWG Study #3, industrial chemicals and pesticides in adults



health & safety concerns:
chemicals found in this person
Brain and nervous system172
Immune system (including sensitization and allergies)158
Reproduction and fertility53
Gastrointestinal (including liver)38
Birth defects and developmental delays13
Cancer2
Endocrine system1
Kidney and renal system1



picture of Kathy Fowler

Participant: Kathy Fowler
Found 187.16666666667-256 of 413 tested chemicals

Kathy Fowler's blood contained 187.16666666667-256 of 413 industrial compounds, pollutants and other chemicals tested, including chemicals linked to brain and nervous system toxicity, immune system toxicity, and reproductive toxicity and fertility problems.

Summary of chemicals found in Kathy Fowler

chemical family level found health effects exposure routes
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs)lowReproduction and fertility, Brain and nervous system Foam furniture, carpet padding, computers, televisions, contaminated house dust, food
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)moderateBrain and nervous system, Immune system (including sensitization and allergies) Dietary sources, fatty meat, dairy and fish
Polychlorinated naphthalenes (PCNs)moderateGastrointestinal (including liver) Dietary sources, fatty meat, dairy and fish
Organochlorine Pesticides (OCs)moderateReproduction and fertility Contaminated food and drinking water
Chlorinated dioxins & furanshighImmune system (including sensitization and allergies), Birth defects and developmental delays Dietary sources, fatty meat, dairy and fish
Polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs)lowReproduction and fertility Air polluted by vehicles or factories, burned and fatty food
Perfluorochemicals (PFCs)highCancer, Birth defects and developmental delays, Endocrine system Stain- and grease-proof coatings on food packaging, couches, carpets, pans
Methylmercurymoderate Dietary sources, particularly seafood

Detailed report by chemical (return to summary)

polybrominated diphenyl ethers (pbdes)

22-25 of 46 found

Fire retardants in furniture foam, computers, and televisions. Accumulate in human tissues. May harm brain development.

  • cumulative level found: 19 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 116 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (44th %ile)
  • Low vs 2,337 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (21st %ile) (comparison based on congeners tested by CDC)
1.11ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum314


Total Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs)

Brominated fire retardants currently used in plastics and fabric. The major use is in electronic devices; the minor use is as a backcoating on industrial fabrics. Are directly toxic to mammals and breakdown to more dangerous forms in the environment.

A fire retardant used in TVs, monitors and electronics. Growing evidence that chemical breaks down in the environment to more persistent and toxic forms.

  • level found: 5 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 116 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (92nd %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum270


Brominated fire retardants used in polyurethan foam and plastics. These PBDEs are neurotoxic and persist in people and the environment. They were withdrawn from the market in the U.S. in 2005.

  • level found: 0.0199 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 76 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (97th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.039


  • level found: 0.0849 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 76 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (50th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum3.23


Brominated flame retardants used in plastics. Break down into more toxic and persistent forms in the environment. Withdrawn from the market in the U.S. in 2005.

  • level found: 0.101 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 116 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (48th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum4.31


Brominated fire retardants used in foam and plastics. Break down into more toxic and persistent forms in the environment. Withdrawn from the market in the U.S. in 2005.

  • level found: 3.01 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 116 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (38th %ile)
0.238ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum76.9


  • level found: 0.0365 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 76 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (36th %ile)
  • Low vs 2,337 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (15th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum2.73


  • level found: 0.0219 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Low vs 76 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (22nd %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.488


Brominated fire retardants currently used in plastics and fabric. The major use is in electronic devices; the minor use is as a backcoating on industrial fabrics. Are directly toxic to mammals and breakdown to more dangerous forms in the environment.

  • level found: 0.0867 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 116 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (82nd %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum19.9


  • level found: 0.625 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 116 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (87th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum19


  • level found: 0.196 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 116 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (85th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum14.7


Brominated flame retardants used in plastics. Break down into more toxic and persistent forms in the environment. Withdrawn from the market in the U.S. in 2005.

  • level found: 0.187 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 116 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (86th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum16.5


Brominated fire retardants used in polyurethan foam and plastics. These PBDEs are neurotoxic and persist in people and the environment. They were withdrawn from the market in the U.S. in 2005.

  • level found: 1.06 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 116 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (31st %ile)
  • Low vs 2,337 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (22nd %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum32.6


  • level found: 0.0791 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 116 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (50th %ile)
  • Low vs 2,337 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (17th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum2.27


In PBDE chemical family - fire retardant in furniture foam, computers, televisions; may harm brain development and hormone systems.

  • level found: 0.263 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Low vs 116 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (23rd %ile)
  • Low vs 2,337 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (24th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum31.2


Brominated fire retardants used in polyurethan foam and plastics. These PBDEs are neurotoxic and persist in people and the environment. They were withdrawn from the market in the U.S. in 2005.

In PBDE chemical family - fire retardant in furniture foam, computers, televisions; may harm brain development and hormone systems.

  • level found: 7.54 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 116 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (38th %ile)
  • Moderate vs 2,337 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (27th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum143


  • level found: 0.0964 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 76 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (58th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum1.26


  • level found: 0.0671 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 116 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (66th %ile)
  • Low vs 2,337 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (16th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum1.33


  • level found: 0.00816 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 116 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (82nd %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.273


  • level found: 0.0449 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 76 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (70th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.823


Brominated fire retardants used in polyurethan foam and plastics. These PBDEs are neurotoxic and persist in people and the environment. They were withdrawn from the market in the U.S. in 2005.

  • level found: 0.0342 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 116 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (59th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.673


  • level found: 0.458 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 116 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (39th %ile)
  • High vs 2,337 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (94th %ile)
0.0385ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum6.17


  • level found: 0.00357 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 76 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (81st %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.0211


polychlorinated biphenyls (pcbs)

96.166666666667-146 of 209 found

Banned industrial insulators and lubricants. Cause cancer and nervous system problems.

  • cumulative level found: 100 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (66th %ile)
  • Moderate vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (57th %ile) (comparison based on congeners tested by CDC)
2.95ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum600


Total Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)

In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

  • level found: 0.69 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (65th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum19.4


  • level found: 0.0855 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 25 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (52nd %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.583


  • level found: 0.0276 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 25 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (72nd %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.0531


  • level found: 0.0135 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 26 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (89th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.09


  • level found: 0.0207 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 25 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (52nd %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.122


  • level found: 0.012 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 25 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (96th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.0163


  • level found: 0.0163 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 25 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (96th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.025


In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

  • level found: 0.107 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (50th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum5.08


  • level found: 0.0189 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 25 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (76th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.0555


In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

  • level found: 5.19 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (66th %ile)
  • Moderate vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (41st %ile)
0.0371ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum34.3


In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

  • level found: 0.662 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (69th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum3.67


  • level found: 0.663 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 26 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (89th %ile)
  • Low vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (15th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum5.76


In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

  • level found: 0.0179 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (63rd %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum3.08


  • level found: 0.05 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 26 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (85th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.402


In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

  • level found: 0.579 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (66th %ile)
  • Low vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (14th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum6.74


  • level found: 1.02 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 26 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (85th %ile)
  • Low vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (14th %ile)
0.0119ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum10


In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

  • level found: 0.0125 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (49th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum3.65


In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

  • level found: 15.5 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (69th %ile)
  • Moderate vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (60th %ile)
0.211ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum112


  • level found: 0.0168 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 26 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (89th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.0938


In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

  • level found: 1.64 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (69th %ile)
  • Low vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (14th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum8.68


In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

  • level found: 3.93 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (66th %ile)
  • Moderate vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (32nd %ile)
0.0607ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum36.4


  • level found: 0.232 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (89th %ile)
  • Low vs 2,547 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (12th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum1.61


In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

  • level found: 0.458 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (72nd %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum5.15


In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

  • level found: 0.128 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (89th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum8.96


  • level found: 0.133 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (72nd %ile)
  • High vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (84th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum3.83


  • level found: 13.9 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 26 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (85th %ile)
0.297ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum72.6


  • level found: 0.254 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 26 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (81st %ile)
0.00898ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum2.63


  • level found: 0.317 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 26 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (85th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum2.01


  • level found: 0.0651 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 26 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (54th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.923


  • level found: 0.0023 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 26 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (70th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.0487


In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

  • level found: 1.17 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (72nd %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum3.95


  • level found: 0.0296 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 26 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (77th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.137


In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

  • level found: 1.87 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (66th %ile)
  • Low vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (14th %ile)
0.0243ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum14


  • level found: 0.0191 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 26 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (50th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.457


In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

  • level found: 19.9 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (69th %ile)
  • Moderate vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (47th %ile)
0.379ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum96.5


In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

  • level found: 3.45 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (66th %ile)
  • Moderate vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (26th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum14.6


  • level found: 0.133 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (75th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.864


  • level found: 0.00663 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 26 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (89th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.0413


  • level found: 0.911 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (80th %ile)
  • Low vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (14th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum3.83


In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

  • level found: 0.0227 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 25 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (28th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum1.74


  • level found: 0.0115 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 25 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (32nd %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.319


  • level found: 0.0138 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 25 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (48th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.418


In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

  • level found: 1.53 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (63rd %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum29


  • level found: 0.205 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (89th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum1.7


In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

  • level found: 0.556 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (72nd %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum13.7


In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

  • level found: 2.42 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (63rd %ile)
  • Low vs 2,547 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (17th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum34


  • level found: 0.599 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (89th %ile)
  • Low vs 2,547 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (14th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum5.57


  • level found: 1.28 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (66th %ile)
  • Low vs 2,547 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (11th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum12.3


  • level found: 0.00969 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 26 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (70th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.207


In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

  • level found: 3.17 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (80th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum40


In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

  • level found: 0.0628 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (60th %ile)
  • Low vs 2,547 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (11th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum17.4


  • level found: 0.972 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 26 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (85th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum11.7


  • level found: 1.88 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (63rd %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum22.4


  • level found: 0.074 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (86th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.53


  • level found: 0.0423 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 26 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (58th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.805


  • level found: 0.0847 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (52nd %ile)
  • Moderate vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (30th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum13.1


  • level found: 0.899 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (72nd %ile)
  • Low vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (13th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum4.98


  • level found: 0.00357 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 26 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (54th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.212


  • level found: 0.087 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 26 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (77th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.353


In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

  • level found: 0.0492 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (52nd %ile)
  • Moderate vs 2,547 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (53rd %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum3.39


  • level found: 0.00816 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 26 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (81st %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.0573


  • level found: 0.434 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (89th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum1.96


  • level found: 0.0872 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 26 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (58th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.836


In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

  • level found: 5.81 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (63rd %ile)
  • Moderate vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (57th %ile)
0.212ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum30.8


  • level found: 0.00944 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (86th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.0329


  • level found: 0.104 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (89th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.333


  • level found: 0.00867 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (89th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.0442


  • level found: 0.0327 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (78th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum4.98


  • level found: 2.82 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 26 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (85th %ile)
0.0828ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum14.9


  • level found: 0.00306 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (52nd %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum13.1


  • level found: 0.0321 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (69th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.483


  • level found: 0.012 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 26 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (66th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.0544


  • level found: 0.00255 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (66th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.0419


In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

  • level found: 0.0661 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (58th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum3.18


  • level found: 0.00638 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 26 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (58th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.0231


  • level found: 0.00128 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 26 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (62nd %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.0136


  • level found: 0.00434 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 26 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (70th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.0118


In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

  • level found: 0.013 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (75th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum2.14


  • level found: 0.00179 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 26 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (62nd %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.0144


In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

  • level found: 0.0472 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (52nd %ile)
  • Moderate vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (32nd %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum4.47


  • level found: 0.00459 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 26 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (43rd %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.0425


In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

  • level found: 0.144 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (83rd %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum1.65


  • level found: 4.27 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 26 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (85th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum23.4


  • level found: 0.0148 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 26 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (70th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.142


In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

  • level found: 0.00918 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (69th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum1.68


In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

  • level found: 0.495 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (72nd %ile)
  • Low vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (14th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum3.46


  • level found: 0.0199 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 26 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (81st %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.161


  • level found: 0.0202 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 25 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (88th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.0386


  • level found: 0.0186 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 25 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (72nd %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.0531


In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

  • level found: 0.0411 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (56th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum3.88


  • level found: 0.00459 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 25 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (84th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.0157


  • level found: 0.785 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 25 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (88th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum5.11


  • level found: 0.0316 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 25 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (80th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.0645


  • level found: 0.0158 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 25 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (72nd %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.0301


  • level found: 0.00357 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 25 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (84th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.00728


  • level found: 0.0135 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 25 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (96th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.0185


  • level found: 0.00842 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 25 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (96th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.00863


  • level found: 0.0671 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 25 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (92nd %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.138


  • level found: 0.0145 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 25 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (96th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.0188


polychlorinated naphthalenes (pcns)

22-38 of 70 found

Wood preservatives, varnishes, machine lubricating oils, waste incineration. Cause liver and kidney damage.

  • cumulative level found: 0.985 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 23 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (74th %ile)
0.0743ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum3.43


Total Polychlorinated naphthalenes (PCNs)

  • level found: 0.0141 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 23 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (79th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.13


  • level found: 0.00105 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 23 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (61st %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.0957


  • level found: 0.0782 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 23 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (92nd %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.719


  • level found: 0.0419 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 23 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (57th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum3.11


PCNs are toxic and persistent. They bioaccumulate in people and are stored in fatty tissues. The toxic effects of chemicals are similar to dioxin.

  • level found: 0.0408 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 23 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (74th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.188


PCNs are toxic and persistent. They bioaccumulate in people and are stored in fatty tissues. The toxic effects of chemicals are similar to dioxin.

  • level found: 0.0229 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 23 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (92nd %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.113


  • level found: 0.0657 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 23 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (92nd %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.392


  • level found: 0.0059 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 23 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (87th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.0321


  • level found: 0.0075 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 23 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (83rd %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.0171


  • level found: 0.0128 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 23 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (74th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.0315


  • level found: 0.0366 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 23 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (61st %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.0664


  • level found: 0.0515 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 23 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (83rd %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.0886


  • level found: 0.0295 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 23 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (66th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.0708


  • level found: 0.0053 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 23 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (83rd %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.0364


  • level found: 0.0688 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 23 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (74th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.126


  • level found: 0.0204 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 23 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (79th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.0379


  • level found: 0.038 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 23 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (61st %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.0739


  • level found: 0.0263 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 23 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (83rd %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.0295


  • level found: 0.318 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 23 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (99th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.318


  • level found: 0.0135 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 23 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (99th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.0135


  • level found: 0.0247 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 23 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (96th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.027


  • level found: 0.0622 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 23 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (96th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.076


organochlorine pesticides (ocs)

19 of 28 found

Includes DDT, chlordane, other pesticides. Largely banned in the U.S. Build up in the human body over time. Cause cancer and reproductive harm.

  • cumulative level found: 145 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 27 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (82nd %ile)
  • Moderate vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (31st %ile) (comparison based on congeners tested by CDC)
0.615ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum2830


Total Organochlorine Pesticides (OCs)

Organochlorine chemical, a class largely banned in the U.S. that builds up in the body over time, linked to cancer and reproductive harm.

  • level found: 96.9 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 27 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (78th %ile)
  • Moderate vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (27th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum2560


Organochlorine chemical, a class largely banned in the U.S. that builds up in the body over time, linked to cancer and reproductive harm.

  • level found: 1.91 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 27 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (82nd %ile)
  • Low vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (18th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum75.3


Organochlorine chemical, a class largely banned in the U.S. that builds up in the body over time, linked to cancer and reproductive harm.

  • level found: 0.0837 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 27 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (75th %ile)
  • High vs 2,547 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (96th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.345


  • level found: 0.101 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 27 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (75th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.307


Organochlorine chemical, a class largely banned in the U.S. that builds up in the body over time, linked to cancer and reproductive harm.

  • level found: 1.45 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 27 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (86th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum7.75


Organochlorine chemical, a class largely banned in the U.S. that builds up in the body over time, linked to cancer and reproductive harm.

  • level found: 0.166 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 27 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (86th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.827


Organochlorine chemical, a class largely banned in the U.S. that builds up in the body over time, linked to cancer and reproductive harm.

  • level found: 4.21 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 27 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (86th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum37.1


Organochlorine chemical, a class largely banned in the U.S. that builds up in the body over time, linked to cancer and reproductive harm.

  • level found: 0.872 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 18 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (78th %ile)
0.0972ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum7.4


Organochlorine chemical, a class largely banned in the U.S. that builds up in the body over time, linked to cancer and reproductive harm.

  • level found: 4.94 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 27 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (86th %ile)
  • Moderate vs 2,547 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (58th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum35.2


Organochlorine chemical, a class largely banned in the U.S. that builds up in the body over time, linked to cancer and reproductive harm.

  • level found: 0.0426 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 27 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (89th %ile)
  • High vs 2,547 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (99th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.94


Organochlorine chemical, a class largely banned in the U.S. that builds up in the body over time, linked to cancer and reproductive harm.

  • level found: 0.207 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 27 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (71st %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.995


Organochlorine chemical, a class largely banned in the U.S. that builds up in the body over time, linked to cancer and reproductive harm.

  • level found: 0.246 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 26 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (77th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum1.28


  • level found: 0.0691 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 27 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (71st %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.251


Organochlorine chemical, a class largely banned in the U.S. that builds up in the body over time, linked to cancer and reproductive harm.

  • level found: 1.89 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 27 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (89th %ile)
  • Low vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (21st %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum12.6


Organochlorine chemical, a class largely banned in the U.S. that builds up in the body over time, linked to cancer and reproductive harm.

  • level found: 11.2 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 27 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (86th %ile)
  • Moderate vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (42nd %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum24.4


Organochlorine chemical, a class largely banned in the U.S. that builds up in the body over time, linked to cancer and reproductive harm.

  • level found: 2.34 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 27 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (86th %ile)
  • Low vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (20th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum11.3


  • level found: 0.121 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 18 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (78th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum0.291


Organochlorine chemical, a class largely banned in the U.S. that builds up in the body over time, linked to cancer and reproductive harm.

  • level found: 10.1 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 18 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (84th %ile)
  • Moderate vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (64th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum35.7


Organochlorine chemical, a class largely banned in the U.S. that builds up in the body over time, linked to cancer and reproductive harm.

  • level found: 7.73 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 18 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (84th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum86.4


chlorinated dioxins & furans

11 of 17 found

Pollutants from PVC production, industrial bleaching, and incineration. Cause cancer and may harm hormone system.

  • cumulative level found: 367 pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (65th %ile)
  • High vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (76th %ile) (comparison based on congeners tested by CDC)
5pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum1860


Total Chlorinated dioxins & furans

Chlorinated dioxins are unwanted byproducts of the manufacture and burning of products that contain chlorine. Dioxins cause cancer in humans, and they are generally considered to be among the most toxic environmental contaminants known to man. As a class, dioxins are extremely toxic, persistent, bioaccumulative, and lipophilic ("fat-loving"). This means that dioxins build up and are stored in fatty tissues and fluids, such as breast milk, and can be passed on to fetuses and infants during pregnancy and lactation. Most people are exposed to dioxin through the food they eat, primarily from meat, dairy, fish and eggs.

In humans, dioxins are associated with cancer, skin lesions, damage to the nervous system and immune system, altered carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, thyroid disruption, altered menstrual cycling, and cardiovascular effects.

In laboratory animals, dioxins are known to cause a variety of effects including cancer and impaired reproductive, endocrine, cardiovascular, immune, respiratory, neurological and metabolic function. In addition, dioxins cause skin disease and birth defects.

In dioxin family of chemicals - pollutants from PVC production, industrial bleaching, incineration; cause cancer, may harm hormone system.

  • level found: 55.9 pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (80th %ile)
  • High vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (81st %ile)
pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum125


Chlorinated furans, also called chlorinated dibenzofurans or CDFs, are toxic, persistent, bioaccumulative, and lipophilic ("fat-loving""). This means that CDFs build up and are stored in fatty tissues and fluid, such as breast milk, and can be passed on to fetuses and infants during pregnancy and lactation.

In humans, CDFs are associated with premature birth and abnormal development, liver toxicity, skin disease, eye inflammation, and damage to the nervous, immune, endocrine, and reproductive systems (ATSDR 1994b).

In laboratory animals, CDFs are known to cause a variety of effects including damage to the reproductive, endocrine, immune, and nervous systems. In addition, CDFs harm the kidneys and gastrointestinal tract, and cause birth defects (ATSDR 1994b).

In chlorinated furan family of chemicals - pollutants from PVC production, industrial bleaching, incineration; cause cancer, may harm hormone system.

  • level found: 4.59 pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (50th %ile)
  • Moderate vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (57th %ile)
pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum61.4


Chlorinated dioxins are unwanted byproducts of the manufacture and burning of products that contain chlorine. Dioxins cause cancer in humans, and they are generally considered to be among the most toxic environmental contaminants known to man. As a class, dioxins are extremely toxic, persistent, bioaccumulative, and lipophilic ("fat-loving"). This means that dioxins build up and are stored in fatty tissues and fluids, such as breast milk, and can be passed on to fetuses and infants during pregnancy and lactation. Most people are exposed to dioxin through the food they eat, primarily from meat, dairy, fish and eggs.

In humans, dioxins are associated with cancer, skin lesions, damage to the nervous system and immune system, altered carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, thyroid disruption, altered menstrual cycling, and cardiovascular effects.

In laboratory animals, dioxins are known to cause a variety of effects including cancer and impaired reproductive, endocrine, cardiovascular, immune, respiratory, neurological and metabolic function. In addition, dioxins cause skin disease and birth defects.

In dioxin family of chemicals - pollutants from PVC production, industrial bleaching, incineration; cause cancer, may harm hormone system.

  • level found: 4.34 pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (83rd %ile)
  • High vs 2,547 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (80th %ile)
pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum11.4


In dioxin family of chemicals - pollutants from PVC production, industrial bleaching, incineration; cause cancer, may harm hormone system.

  • level found: 41.1 pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (89th %ile)
  • High vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (81st %ile)
pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum63.7


In dioxin family of chemicals - pollutants from PVC production, industrial bleaching, incineration; cause cancer, may harm hormone system.

  • level found: 7.4 pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (89th %ile)
  • High vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (83rd %ile)
pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum24.3


Chlorinated furans, also called chlorinated dibenzofurans or CDFs, are toxic, persistent, bioaccumulative, and lipophilic ("fat-loving""). This means that CDFs build up and are stored in fatty tissues and fluid, such as breast milk, and can be passed on to fetuses and infants during pregnancy and lactation.

In humans, CDFs are associated with premature birth and abnormal development, liver toxicity, skin disease, eye inflammation, and damage to the nervous, immune, endocrine, and reproductive systems (ATSDR 1994b).

In laboratory animals, CDFs are known to cause a variety of effects including damage to the reproductive, endocrine, immune, and nervous systems. In addition, CDFs harm the kidneys and gastrointestinal tract, and cause birth defects (ATSDR 1994b).

In chlorinated furan family of chemicals - pollutants from PVC production, industrial bleaching, incineration; cause cancer, may harm hormone system.

  • level found: 5.36 pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (86th %ile)
  • Moderate vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (73rd %ile)
pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum24.3


In chlorinated furan family of chemicals - pollutants from PVC production, industrial bleaching, incineration; cause cancer, may harm hormone system.

  • level found: 5.36 pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (77th %ile)
  • High vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (81st %ile)
pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum22.9


In chlorinated furan family of chemicals - pollutants from PVC production, industrial bleaching, incineration; cause cancer, may harm hormone system.

  • level found: 2.04 pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (77th %ile)
pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum13.6


Chlorinated dioxins are unwanted byproducts of the manufacture and burning of products that contain chlorine. Dioxins cause cancer in humans, and they are generally considered to be among the most toxic environmental contaminants known to man. As a class, dioxins are extremely toxic, persistent, bioaccumulative, and lipophilic ("fat-loving"). This means that dioxins build up and are stored in fatty tissues and fluids, such as breast milk, and can be passed on to fetuses and infants during pregnancy and lactation. Most people are exposed to dioxin through the food they eat, primarily from meat, dairy, fish and eggs.

In humans, dioxins are associated with cancer, skin lesions, damage to the nervous system and immune system, altered carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, thyroid disruption, altered menstrual cycling, and cardiovascular effects.

In laboratory animals, dioxins are known to cause a variety of effects including cancer and impaired reproductive, endocrine, cardiovascular, immune, respiratory, neurological and metabolic function. In addition, dioxins cause skin disease and birth defects.

In dioxin family of chemicals - pollutants from PVC production, industrial bleaching, incineration; cause cancer, may harm hormone system.

  • level found: 230 pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (65th %ile)
pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum1590


Chlorinated furans, also called chlorinated dibenzofurans or CDFs, are toxic, persistent, bioaccumulative, and lipophilic ("fat-loving""). This means that CDFs build up and are stored in fatty tissues and fluid, such as breast milk, and can be passed on to fetuses and infants during pregnancy and lactation.

In humans, CDFs are associated with premature birth and abnormal development, liver toxicity, skin disease, eye inflammation, and damage to the nervous, immune, endocrine, and reproductive systems (ATSDR 1994b).

In laboratory animals, CDFs are known to cause a variety of effects including damage to the reproductive, endocrine, immune, and nervous systems. In addition, CDFs harm the kidneys and gastrointestinal tract, and cause birth defects (ATSDR 1994b).

In chlorinated furan family of chemicals - pollutants from PVC production, industrial bleaching, incineration; cause cancer, may harm hormone system.

  • level found: 4.85 pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (92nd %ile)
  • High vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (95th %ile)
pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum10


In chlorinated furan family of chemicals - pollutants from PVC production, industrial bleaching, incineration; cause cancer, may harm hormone system.

  • level found: 6.12 pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (71st %ile)
pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum11.7


polyaromatic hydrocarbons (pahs)

8 of 18 found

Pollutants from burning gasoline and garbage. Linked to cancer. Accumulate in food chain.

  • cumulative level found: 164 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Low vs 8 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (25th %ile)
130ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum384


Total Polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs)

  • level found: 25.1 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 8 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (50th %ile)
14.7ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum40.2


  • level found: 11.9 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 8 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (50th %ile)
9.44ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum23.2


PAHs are toxic byproduct of combustion. Humans exposed through air or diet. Probable carcinogens. In animals cause birth defects, affect skin, blood, reproductive and immune systems.

  • level found: 14.3 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 8 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (50th %ile)
10ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum21.3


  • level found: 25.9 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • High vs 8 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (88th %ile)
14ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum42.1


  • level found: 33.6 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Low vs 8 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (25th %ile)
17.8ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum199


  • level found: 7.97 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 8 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (75th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum15.3


  • level found: 35.9 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Moderate vs 8 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (38th %ile)
24.2ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum51.2


  • level found: 9.03 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
  • Low vs 8 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (25th %ile)
8.89ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum89.7


perfluorochemicals (pfcs)

8 of 12 found

Includes Teflon, Scotchgard, Stainmaster. Linked to cancer and birth defects.

  • cumulative level found: 17 ng/g (wet weight) in whole blood
  • High vs 23 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (96th %ile)
0.736ng/g (wet weight) in whole blood27.8


Total Perfluorochemicals (PFCs)

Breakdown product of stain- and grease-proof coatings on food packaging, couches, carpets. A 10-carbon version of PFOA; persistent; bioaccumulative.

  • level found: 0.205 ng/g (wet weight) in whole blood
  • High vs 23 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (96th %ile)
ng/g (wet weight) in whole blood0.263


Breakdown product of stain- and grease-proof coatings on food packaging, couches, carpets. A 7-carbon version of PFOA; persistent.

  • level found: 0.082 ng/g (wet weight) in whole blood
  • Moderate vs 23 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (66th %ile)
ng/g (wet weight) in whole blood0.324


Breakdown product of stain- and grease-proof coatings on food packaging and household products. Highly persistent in people and the environment.

  • level found: 0.447 ng/g (wet weight) in whole blood
  • Moderate vs 23 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (61st %ile)
ng/g (wet weight) in whole blood0.778


Breakdown product of stain- and grease-proof coatings on food packaging, couches, carpets. A 9-carbon version of PFOA; persistent; bioaccumulative.

  • level found: 0.686 ng/g (wet weight) in whole blood
  • High vs 23 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (99th %ile)
ng/g (wet weight) in whole blood0.686


Used to make Teflon pan coatings; breakdown product of stain- and grease-proof coatings. Likely human carcinogen. Found in most people. Being phased out of some products.

  • level found: 2.28 ng/g (wet weight) in whole blood
  • High vs 23 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (96th %ile)
0.176ng/g (wet weight) in whole blood4.2


Breakdown product of stain- and grease-proof coatings on food packaging, couches, carpets. An 11-carbon version of PFOA; persistent; bioaccumulative.

  • level found: 0.082 ng/g (wet weight) in whole blood
  • High vs 23 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (92nd %ile)
ng/g (wet weight) in whole blood0.149


In fire fighting foams and carpet treatments. Phased out of consumer products by 3M in 2000 over health concerns.

  • level found: 0.879 ng/g (wet weight) in whole blood
  • Moderate vs 23 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (74th %ile)
ng/g (wet weight) in whole blood5.52


Active ingredient in Scotchgard prior to 2000. Phase out forced by EPA because concentrations in human blood close to levels that harm lab animals.

  • level found: 12.3 ng/g (wet weight) in whole blood
  • High vs 23 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (96th %ile)
0.352ng/g (wet weight) in whole blood16.2


metals

1 of 1 found

Forms from mercury, a pollutant from coal-fired power plants and other sources. Methylmercury accumulates in seafood and harms brain development and function.

  • level found: 0.42 ug/L (wet weight) in whole blood
  • Low vs 88 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (23rd %ile)
  • Moderate vs 8,373 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (37th %ile)
ug/L (wet weight) in whole blood25.9


Chemicals not found in Kathy Fowler

157 chemicals

1,2,3,4,7,8-HxBDD (hexadioxin), 1,2,3,6,7,8-HxBDD (hexadioxin), 1,2,3,4,6,7,8-HpBDF (heptafuran), 1,2,3,4,7,8-HxBDF (hexafuran), 1,2,3,7,8-PeBDF (pentafuran), 2,3,4,7,8-PeBDF (pentafuran), 2,3,7,8-TBDF (tetrafuran), 1,2,3,4,6,7,8,9-OBDF (octafuran), 1,2,3,7,8,9-HxBDD (hexadioxin), 1,2,3,7,8-PeBDD (pentadioxin), 2,3,7,8-TBDD (tetradioxin), 1,2,3,4,6,7,8,9-OBDD (octadioxin), 2,3,7,8-TCDD (tetradioxin), 1,2,3,7,8-PeCDD (pentadioxin), 1,2,3,7,8,9-HxCDF (hexafuran), 1,2,3,4,7,8,9-HpCDF (heptafuran), 1,2,3,4,6,7,8,9-OCDF (octafuran), 2,3,7,8-TCDF (tetrafuran), delta-BHC, Methoxychlor, 2,4'-DDD, 2,4'-DDE, 2,4'-DDT, 4,4'-DDD, beta-Endosulphan, Endosulphan Sulphate, Endrin Ketone, PFBS (Perfluorobutane sulfonate), PFDoA (Perfluorododecanoic acid), PFPeA (Perfluoro-n-pentanoic acid), PFTA (Perfluorotetradecanoic acid), Acenaphthylene, Benz[a]anthracene, Benzo[a]pyrene, Benzo[b/j]fluoranthene, Benzo[e]pyrene, Benzo[ghi]perylene, Benzo[k]fluoranthene, Chrysene, Dibenz[ah]anthracene, Indeno[1,2,3-cd]pyrene, PBDE-119, PBDE-120, PBDE-12, PBDE-13, PBDE-138, PBDE-166, PBDE-128, PBDE-181, PBDE-140, PBDE-51, PBDE-190, PBDE-105, PBDE-116, PBDE-75, PBDE-30, PBDE-32, PBDE-7, PBDE-10, PBDE-126, PBDE-77, PBDE-37, PCB-124, PCB-107, PCB-143, PCB-134, PCB-88, PCB-91, PCB-78, PCB-141, PCB-89, PCB-182, PCB-43, PCB-94, PCB-106, PCB-164, PCB-165, PCB-112, PCB-67, PCB-72, PCB-73, PCB-10, PCB-82, PCB-131, PCB-132, PCB-176, PCB-204, PCB-184, PCB-142, PCB-144, PCB-148, PCB-186, PCB-188, PCB-145, PCB-150, PCB-152, PCB-96, PCB-155, PCB-103, PCB-104, PCB-54, PCB-5, PCB-55, PCB-56, PCB-122, PCB-159, PCB-192, PCB-161, PCB-57, PCB-58, PCB-121, PCB-23, PCB-34, PCB-24, PCB-35, PCB-77, PCB-169, PCB-79, PCB-36, PCB-80, PCB-37, PCB-81, PCB-38, PCB-39, PCB-14, PCN-50, PCN-51, PCN-64, PCN-68, PCN-71, PCN-72, PCN-73, PCN-74, PCN-63, PCN-65, PCN-49, PCN-69, PCN-70, PCN-54, PCN-56, PCN-31, PCN-13, PCN-57, PCN-58, PCN-32, PCN-61, PCN-62, PCN-15, PCN-16, PCN-41, PCN-18, PCN-3, PCN-44, PCN-22, PCN-9, PCN-26, PCN-10

References/Notes

[1] CDC (2005). National Report on Human Exposure to Environmental Chemicals, Centers for Disease Control. http://www.cdc.gov/exposurereport/. (Methylmercury results have been compared to total mercury in CDC biomonitoring.)

[2] The chemicals co-eluted in the laboratory analysis.

See results for this participant's group