On April 5th 2024 an online new article was posted that sent ripples through the internet and health circles:
“US Environmental Protection Agency lab finds PFAS in popular bandage brands including Johnson & Johnson Band-Aid”
Testing was performed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and found that many popular US brands of bandages, including Band-Aid (J&J) and Equate (Walmart) had high levels of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) which are a group of synthetic chemicals used in various industrial and consumer products for their water and grease-resistant properties. These substances have become a concern due to their persistence in the environment and potential health risks.
Testing revealed that 26 of the 40 bandages examined had high concentrations of organic fluorine, a “strong indicator” of PFAS. From the 18 brands tested, ten out of 16, or 63% of the bandages marketed for people with darker skin tones had signs of “forever chemicals,” according to the study.
“Because bandages are placed on open wounds, it’s troubling to learn that they may also be exposing children and adults to PFAS. It’s obvious from the data that PFAS are not needed for wound care, so it’s important that the industry remove their presence to protect the public from PFAS and opt instead for PFAS-free materials,” says Linda Birnbaum, scientist emeritus and former director of the National Institute of EHS and National Toxicology Program. She is a scholar in residence at Duke University and adjunct professor at the University of North Carolina and Yale University.
One major danger of PFAS to the human body is their bioaccumulation. This means they can build up in the body over time because they are not easily broken down. They have been found in blood, urine, and breast milk of people and animals worldwide.
Research suggests that exposure to PFAS may be linked to several health issues, including:
Cancer: Some studies have shown associations between PFAS exposure and certain cancers, such as kidney and testicular cancer.
Immune System Effects: PFAS may suppress immune function, making individuals more susceptible to infections and diseases.
Reproductive Problems: There are concerns that PFAS exposure could lead to fertility issues, pregnancy complications, and developmental problems in children.
Liver Damage: PFAS have been linked to liver damage and changes in liver function.
Thyroid Disorders: Some studies suggest that PFAS exposure may interfere with thyroid hormone levels, leading to thyroid disorders.
A Safer Alternative For Wound / Bandage Care:
Sterile Gauze and Medical Tape: Clean the wound and apply a sterile gauze pad over it. Secure the gauze in place with medical tape. This method is versatile and can be used for wounds of various sizes.
Liquid Bandage: Liquid bandages are a liquid adhesive that forms a protective layer over the wound when it dries. They are waterproof and can stay in place for several days. However, they are not suitable for deep or heavily bleeding wounds.
Hydrocolloid Dressings: These are adhesive dressings that provide a moist environment for the wound to heal. They are waterproof and can stay in place for several days, promoting faster healing time.
Silicone Gel Sheets: Silicone gel sheets create a barrier over the wound and help reduce scarring. They are reusable and can be cut to fit the size of the wound.
Steri-Strips: These are thin adhesive strips that can be used to close small cuts or wounds that do not require stitches. They are often used in place of sutures for minor wounds to keep the skin close together to minimize scarring.
Honey Dressings: Raw Honey has natural antibacterial properties and can promote wound healing. You can apply medical-grade honey to the wound and cover it with gauze.
Aloe Vera Gel: Aloe vera gel is soothing and can help promote healing for minor wounds. Apply a thin layer of aloe vera gel to the wound and cover it with gauze.
Organic Non Toxic Bandages: Patch Brand, they are Bamboo and 100% plastic free (https://a.co/d/6W5WvdB)