FDA Initiating New Review of Toxic Metals in Tampons

Background

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recently announced that it will be conducting an expert, independent review of recent research on the health effects caused by heavy metals in tampons. This move comes after lawmakers, including Senator Patty Murray (D-Wash.), sounded the alarm on possible toxins in the products.

The Concerns

The concerns surrounding tampons and toxic metals began with a recent study published in the scientific journal Environmental International. The study found that 14 commonly used tampon brands contained lead, cadmium, arsenic, and 13 other harmful metals. These metals can cause a range of health issues, including kidney disease, cardiovascular disease, and cancer.

The Study

The study, which was published in August, analyzed 14 tampon brands and found that between 52 and 86 percent of menstruating people in the United States use tampons. The products may contain metals from agricultural or manufacturing processes, which could be absorbed into a person’s bloodstream during use.

The FDA’s Response

In response to the study and concerns from lawmakers, the FDA has announced that it will be conducting an expert, independent review of the research on health effects caused by metals in tampons. The agency will also be conducting an internal lab study to examine the metals found in tampons and how they are released during normal use.

Lawmakers’ Concerns

Senator Patty Murray (D-Wash.) was one of the lawmakers who sounded the alarm on possible toxins in tampons. She sent a letter to the FDA in July, asking the agency to investigate the findings of the recent study and to take action to ensure the safety of women who use tampons.

Other Lawmakers’ Concerns

The concerns about toxic metals in tampons are not limited to Senator Murray. Yesterday, members of the Democratic Women’s Caucus wrote a letter to the FDA, urging the agency to address concerns about the ingredients in tampons in light of recent research exposing possible toxins in the products.

Conclusion

The FDA’s decision to conduct an expert, independent review of the research on health effects caused by metals in tampons is a positive step towards ensuring the safety of women who use tampons. The agency’s internal lab study will also provide valuable information on how the metals found in tampons are released during normal use.

FAQs

Q: What is the FDA’s plan for addressing the concerns about toxic metals in tampons?
A: The FDA is conducting an expert, independent review of the research on health effects caused by metals in tampons and an internal lab study to examine the metals found in tampons and how they are released during normal use.

Q: What are the potential health effects of toxic metals in tampons?
A: The metals found in tampons, such as lead, cadmium, and arsenic, can cause a range of health issues, including kidney disease, cardiovascular disease, and cancer.

Q: How common is the use of tampons among menstruating people in the United States?
A: According to the study, between 52 and 86 percent of menstruating people in the United States use tampons.

Q: What is the FDA’s response to the concerns about toxic metals in tampons?
A: The FDA has announced that it will be conducting an expert, independent review of the research on health effects caused by metals in tampons and an internal lab study to examine the metals found in tampons and how they are released during normal use.