Children are at risk from health problems due to the presence of phthalates, VOCs (volatile organic compounds), such as formaldehyde and chloroform, toluene, heavy metals, or bisphenol A. Children are more likely to place pens in their mouths than adults.
Carcinogens, mutagens, endocrine disruptors
Studies have shown that school supplies contain bisphenol A. This substance interacts with hormones and can cause "increased risk of diseases and disorders like breast cancer, diabetes and thyroid dysfunction, as well as obesity, decreased fertility, testosterone secretion and even heart disease," recalls France Assos Sante.
According to the Ministry of Health, lead ingestion and inhalation (vapors and fine dust) is toxic. It can cause reversible (anaemia and digestive disorders) as well as irreversible(nervous system damage.encephalopathy.and neuropathy) disorders.
Another substance that was tested, Formaldehyde exposes its part to irritation of eyes and respiratory tract. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), of the World Health Organization, has also designated it as a proven carcinogen. It may also be associated with cognitive impairment. Perfluorides can increase the risk for testicular cancer and kidney disease, hepatic dysfunction, hypothyroidism, delayed puberty, and hepatic dysfunction.
Regulate like toys
The National Agency of Health security, (ANSES) laments that school supplies are not currently covered by regulations in Europe or France. This makes it impossible to regulate their composition, manufacture, and use. This calls for the "application to all school supplies of the European regulation on safety of toys (ndeg2009/48/EC). It would also mean that substances that are carcinogenic, mutational or toxic to reproduction would be banned from being manufactured.
Celine Dubois, coordinator of the expert appraisal at ANSES, says, "In the interim (...) I would recommend consumers to give preference supplies that don't contain perfumes or glitter or other artifices which can induce behaviors that could be diverted by children such as "chewing" or ingestion."
Respiratory infections... be aware of the air conditioner!
Source: Destination health
