Deformed genitals, disappearing boys, what’s going on?
Years ago, when we reported that 70% of beauty products contained chemicals linked to birth defects of the penis, I was asked a funny question: If this chemical is harmful to boys, why do we have to worry if it’s in products used by women? I thought, seriously? Unfortunately, the person was serious, and so were the many others who asked the same question. So I learned that you have to actually answer this question: Um, because boys come from the bodies of women.
Yes, if we want to protect people of all sexes — and, it turns out, species of all kinds — from gender-bending chemicals, we need to keep these chemicals away from females who are, might be, or might someday want to become pregnant. In other words, we have to keep these chemicals out of commerce.
To get an idea of the scope of the problem, see Nicholas Kristof’s piece in the NYT: It’s Time to Learn from Frogs and this CBC documentary: The Disappearing Male. Sperm counts are plummeting, and scientists note a remarkable decline in fertility rates in industrialized countries.
But don’t worry, says the beauty industry, it’s just “a little bit” of estrogenic parabens and gender-bending phthalates in the shampoo, lotion, deodorant, perfume and baby wipes. Help give the beauty industry a makeover!
Stacy Malkan, 6/30/09
January 30th, 2010 at 4:27 pm
This has got to be the most alarming and horrific thing I have ever read. It’s not only the industry though. People won’t listen. They don’t want to believe it, and so they are putting their children in danger and pretending nothing is wrong. I don’t understand.
March 5th, 2010 at 10:44 am
Why do FDA still approve of these products? It should be banned and remove from the store shelve. Not everyone or so to say most people don’t realize the consequences of using these products
April 8th, 2010 at 11:12 pm
Hehe , I just love it to see how many fans toy story has!!!
July 2nd, 2010 at 10:43 pm
hah… only in small business
October 25th, 2010 at 7:00 pm
FYI – regional federal government network has worked out that district councils could actually face central grant cuts of 58%, unitaries 50% & counties 44%. Public sector money is thinning out.
October 25th, 2010 at 7:03 pm
FYI folks – Anticipate federal government grant cuts will likely be at 25% in the very near future.
November 1st, 2010 at 5:06 am
Thankyou for this informative blog post. I am keen to see more on this topic in the not too distant future. Thanks again
February 3rd, 2011 at 3:44 am
Have you ever thought about including a little bit more than just your articles? I mean, what you say is fundamental and all. But think of if you added some great images or video clips to give your posts more, “pop”! Your content is excellent but with pics and videos, this blog could definitely be one of the very best in its field. Excellent blog!