There have been so many serious injuries from the Gardisil and Cervarix vaccines, many law firms are encouraging people to come forward to file lawsuits against these companies that didn't properly warn people of the potential side effects.
https://www.beasleyallen.com/matter/gardasil-and-cervarix/
What is Gardasil and Cervarix?
Gardasil is manufactured by Merck, Inc., and promoted as a cervical cancer vaccine. According to official product information, “Gardasil is the only cervical cancer vaccine that helps protect against four types of human papillomavirus (HPV): two types that cause 70 percent of cervical cancer cases, and two more types that cause 90 percent of genital warts cases.” The manufacturer states that Gardasil is for girls and young women ages 9 to 26.
Cervarix is manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline, and also marketed as a vaccine against certain types of cancer-causing human papillomavirus. Cervarix is not currently available in the United States but is approved for use in Australia, the Phillipines and the European Union. It is used in the UK for a national program of vaccination for teen and pre-teen girls. The drug was approved for use in the U.S. by the FDA on October 16, 2009.
What are the side effects of Gardasil and Cervarix?
Among the official side effects listed by the manufacturer are pain, swelling, itching, bruising and redness at the injection site; headache, fever, nausea, dizziness, vomiting and fainting. Sometimes fainting is accompanied by falling with injury, as well as shaking or stiffening and other seizure-like activity. Patients who are severely allergic to yeast should not take Gardasil.
However, since the drug’s introduction in 2006, the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) has received more than 15,000 reports of adverse side effects related to Gardasil. These reports include serious adverse side effects including Guillain-Barre, lupus, seizures, paralysis, blood clots, brain inflammation and many others.
There have been 44 reported deaths as a result of Gardasil uses.
Then, on October 25, 2009, Dr. Diane Harper, lead researcher in the development of two human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines and director of the Gynecologic Cancer Prevention Research Group at the University of Missouri, told an audience of medical professionals that Gardasil is largely unnecessary, and that it has never been fully tested on females under the age of 15. This, despite strong marketing efforts to make the drug mandatory for girls, and product literature and advertising that state the product can be used by girls as young as age 9.
Dr. Harper’s remarks were made to an audience at the 4th International Public Conference on Vaccination. During this talk, she said 70 percent of all HPV infections resolve themselves without treatment within a year and that within two years that number climbs to 90 percent. Of the remaining 10 percent, she said, only half will develop into cervical cancer, resulting in “little need for the vaccine.” She also said incidences of cervical cancer are steadily decreasing with conventional treatments and preventative measures.
Cervarix has been responsible for more than 2,000 cases of serious, adverse reactions since the UK government began administering it to schoolgirls last year. One of the worst cases involved 14-year-old Natalie Morton, who collapsed and died in school in England just one hour after receiving the vaccine.
Gardasil Lawsuits
If you or a loved one has suffered a serious injury or other serious side effects as the result of taking Gardasil or Cervarix, or if a loved one has died as a result of taking either of these drugs, you may be entitled to compensation. For a free legal consultation, contact us today!
Metal Hypersensitivity
(MHS)
https://medbroadcast.com/condition/getcondition/metal-hypersensitivity
The Facts
Metal hypersensitivity is a disorder of the immune system. It is a common condition that affects 10% to 15% of the population. It can produce a variety of symptoms, including rashes, swelling, or pain due to contact with certain metals (see the symptoms and complications section, below).
In addition to the local skin reactions, metal hypersensitivity can also manifest itself as more chronic conditions such as fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome. There are numerous local and systemic symptoms that, when considered together, can be caused by metal hypersensitivities.
It is estimated that up to 17% of women and 3% of men are allergic to nickel and that 1% to 3% of people are allergic to cobalt and chromium. These types of reactions can be localized reactions that are limited to one area, but they can also be more generalized and affect other more distant parts of the body.
Causes
The symptoms of metal hypersensitivity are caused when the body's immune system starts to view metal ions as foreign threats. The cells that make up the immune system normally kill foreign bacteria and viruses by causing inflammation. If they begin attacking metal ions that you touch, eat, inhale, or have implanted in you, they can produce a variety of symptoms (see the symptoms and complications section, below).
Potential metal allergens (triggers of allergic reactions) are very common in everyday life. Typical sources such as watches, coins, and jewellery come readily to mind. However, there are also other less obvious sources of metal in our daily lives. For example, cosmetic products and contact lens solutions may also contain metals that can trigger a reaction at the area of contact.
Nickel is one of the most frequent allergens, causing significant local contact dermatitis (skin reddening and itching). Cobalt, copper, and chromium are also common culprits. These metals can be found in consumer items such as jewellery, cell phones, and clothing items.
Aside from everyday items, medical devices also contain possible allergens such as chromium and titanium. Older dental implants and fillings are often made of metals. A few intra-uterine devices (IUDs) for birth control are made of copper and can also cause hypersensitivities. Implantable devices such as artificial knees, artificial hips, pacemakers, stents, and fracture plates, rods, or pins may contain metals that can cause metal hypersensitivity reactions. These reactions are often more severe in nature when the allergens have been implanted within the body for an extended period of time.
In addition, people who already have an autoimmune disorder (a disorder where the immune system is overactive) can have a higher risk of a metal hypersensitivity, as their immune system is in a constant state of activity.
Symptoms and Complications
Signs and symptoms of metal hypersensitivities can range from small and localized to more severe and generalized.
Limited reactions can appear as a contact dermatitis on the skin that has been exposed to the metal. The skin may appear red, swollen, and itchy. Hives and rashes may also develop.
More severe metal hypersensitivity reactions usually occur from prolonged exposure to a metal allergen through implants or metal ions that are inhaled or eaten. These reactions often cause chronic joint or muscle pain, inflammation, and swelling, leading to generalized fatigue and lack of energy. In addition, fibromyalgia (pain without known cause) and chronic fatigue syndrome can also be seen in people with metal hypersensitivities.
Common symptoms of metal hypersensitivity include:
- blistering of the skin
- chronic fatigue
- chronic inflammation
- cognitive impairment
- depression
- fibromyalgia
- hives
- joint pain
- muscle pain
- rash
- reddening of skin
- swelling
Related conditions
The following symptoms and conditions have been linked to metal hypersensitivity. If you have any of these conditions, you may wish to speak to your doctor about the possibility of a metal hypersensitivity:
- chronic fatigue syndrome
- eczema
- fibromyalgia
- osteomyelitis
- rheumatoid arthritis
Making the Diagnosis
Your doctor may suspect metal hypersensitivities based on a combination of your personal history and your signs and symptoms. To determine possible causes of metal exposure, your doctor may ask if you have any type of implants, if you smoke, or if you regularly use any cosmetics.
Aside from a thorough personal history, your doctor may also order laboratory tests to confirm whether you have a metal hypersensitivity. These tests usually involve giving a blood sample at a laboratory. The laboratory technicians will test the white blood cells for their activity against metal ions by using radioisotopes and microscopically observing physical changes within the cells. If the test shows that the white blood cells have increased activity when exposed to the metal ions, it indicates the presence of a metal hypersensitivity.
A dermatologist can also conduct an allergy test in which they expose various metal ions to your skin to test for a hypersensitivity reaction. This allergy test, which is similar to a regular "scratch test," is often done as a "patch test." The metal ions that are believed to be causing the allergic reaction are applied to a patch, which is then placed on the skin. The patch is left in place for 48 hours, after which it is removed from the skin at a return visit to the doctor. Skin that is red or irritated under the patch may be an indication of an allergy.
Treatment and Prevention
Treatment of metal hypersensitivity is highly individualized, as the allergens and reactions can be very different from person to person.
Skin hypersensitivities can often be resolved by avoiding the item that causes the reaction. If the dermatitis is more significant, the doctor can also prescribe corticosteroid creams and ointments to reduce the local inflammation. The doctor can also prescribe oral antihistamines to further reduce the allergic reaction. Oral corticosteroids can also be used, but they can cause problematic side effects.
Systemic reactions are more difficult to resolve, as they are often caused by implants. Removal of the implant is sometimes considered when a non-metal replacement is available and may be used. For example, a plastic-based dental filling material may be used to replace a previous metal dental filling. However, if the allergy is caused by an artificial knee or hip, replacement with a non-metal option is rarely done due to the difficulty of replacement. For these situations, treatment usually involves both topical (surface-applied) and oral medications to reduce the allergic reaction. Due to the difficult nature of treating systemic metal allergies, doctors sometimes recommend a hypersensitivity test before an implant is chosen.
All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2020. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Source: www.medbroadcast.com/condition/getcondition/Metal-Hypersensitivity
[Effects of aluminum on the integrity of blood brain barrier in juvenile rats]
- PMID: 18512320
Abstract
Objective: To investigate the effects of aluminum on the integrity of blood brain barrier in juvenile rats.
Methods: The 40-day old Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were exposed to aluminium chloride by intraperitoneal injection, at a dose of Al3+ 0 mg/kg, 2.5 mg/kg, 5 mg/kg, 10 mg/kg, respectively. Morris water amaze system was used to test the learning and memory ability. The Evans blue content in brain was analyzed after injection. The ultrastructure's change of the blood brain barrier (BBB) was observed with transmission electron microscope. The expression of occluding protein in BBB was determined by Western blot method.
Results: As compared with control group, the permeability of BBB in mid-level Al and high-level Al was enhanced (P <0.01), the expression of occluding protein was descended (P <0.01). The ultrastructures of the BBB were changed. No differences between every group on learning and memory ability (P>0.05).
Conclusions: Short time and low dose of Al might not change the ability of learning and memory in juvenile rats, however the permeability and ultrastructures of the BBB might be significantly changed.
Metal Hypersensitivity
(MHS)
The Facts
Metal hypersensitivity is a disorder of the immune system. It is a common condition that affects 10% to 15% of the population. It can produce a variety of symptoms, including rashes, swelling, or pain due to contact with certain metals (see the symptoms and complications section, below).
In addition to the local skin reactions, metal hypersensitivity can also manifest itself as more chronic conditions such as fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome. There are numerous local and systemic symptoms that, when considered together, can be caused by metal hypersensitivities.
It is estimated that up to 17% of women and 3% of men are allergic to nickel and that 1% to 3% of people are allergic to cobalt and chromium. These types of reactions can be localized reactions that are limited to one area, but they can also be more generalized and affect other more distant parts of the body.
Causes
The symptoms of metal hypersensitivity are caused when the body's immune system starts to view metal ions as foreign threats. The cells that make up the immune system normally kill foreign bacteria and viruses by causing inflammation. If they begin attacking metal ions that you touch, eat, inhale, or have implanted in you, they can produce a variety of symptoms (see the symptoms and complications section, below).
Potential metal allergens (triggers of allergic reactions) are very common in everyday life. Typical sources such as watches, coins, and jewellery come readily to mind. However, there are also other less obvious sources of metal in our daily lives. For example, cosmetic products and contact lens solutions may also contain metals that can trigger a reaction at the area of contact.
Nickel is one of the most frequent allergens, causing significant local contact dermatitis (skin reddening and itching). Cobalt, copper, and chromium are also common culprits. These metals can be found in consumer items such as jewellery, cell phones, and clothing items.
Aside from everyday items, medical devices also contain possible allergens such as chromium and titanium. Older dental implants and fillings are often made of metals. A few intra-uterine devices (IUDs) for birth control are made of copper and can also cause hypersensitivities. Implantable devices such as artificial knees, artificial hips, pacemakers, stents, and fracture plates, rods, or pins may contain metals that can cause metal hypersensitivity reactions. These reactions are often more severe in nature when the allergens have been implanted within the body for an extended period of time.
In addition, people who already have an autoimmune disorder (a disorder where the immune system is overactive) can have a higher risk of a metal hypersensitivity, as their immune system is in a constant state of activity.
Symptoms and Complications
Signs and symptoms of metal hypersensitivities can range from small and localized to more severe and generalized.
Limited reactions can appear as a contact dermatitis on the skin that has been exposed to the metal. The skin may appear red, swollen, and itchy. Hives and rashes may also develop.
More severe metal hypersensitivity reactions usually occur from prolonged exposure to a metal allergen through implants or metal ions that are inhaled or eaten. These reactions often cause chronic joint or muscle pain, inflammation, and swelling, leading to generalized fatigue and lack of energy. In addition, fibromyalgia (pain without known cause) and chronic fatigue syndrome can also be seen in people with metal hypersensitivities.
Common symptoms of metal hypersensitivity include:
- blistering of the skin
- chronic fatigue
- chronic inflammation
- cognitive impairment
- depression
- fibromyalgia
- hives
- joint pain
- muscle pain
- rash
- reddening of skin
- swelling
Related conditions
The following symptoms and conditions have been linked to metal hypersensitivity. If you have any of these conditions, you may wish to speak to your doctor about the possibility of a metal hypersensitivity:
- chronic fatigue syndrome
- eczema
- fibromyalgia
- osteomyelitis
- rheumatoid arthritis
Making the Diagnosis
Your doctor may suspect metal hypersensitivities based on a combination of your personal history and your signs and symptoms. To determine possible causes of metal exposure, your doctor may ask if you have any type of implants, if you smoke, or if you regularly use any cosmetics.
Aside from a thorough personal history, your doctor may also order laboratory tests to confirm whether you have a metal hypersensitivity. These tests usually involve giving a blood sample at a laboratory. The laboratory technicians will test the white blood cells for their activity against metal ions by using radioisotopes and microscopically observing physical changes within the cells. If the test shows that the white blood cells have increased activity when exposed to the metal ions, it indicates the presence of a metal hypersensitivity.
A dermatologist can also conduct an allergy test in which they expose various metal ions to your skin to test for a hypersensitivity reaction. This allergy test, which is similar to a regular "scratch test," is often done as a "patch test." The metal ions that are believed to be causing the allergic reaction are applied to a patch, which is then placed on the skin. The patch is left in place for 48 hours, after which it is removed from the skin at a return visit to the doctor. Skin that is red or irritated under the patch may be an indication of an allergy.
Treatment and Prevention
Treatment of metal hypersensitivity is highly individualized, as the allergens and reactions can be very different from person to person.
Skin hypersensitivities can often be resolved by avoiding the item that causes the reaction. If the dermatitis is more significant, the doctor can also prescribe corticosteroid creams and ointments to reduce the local inflammation. The doctor can also prescribe oral antihistamines to further reduce the allergic reaction. Oral corticosteroids can also be used, but they can cause problematic side effects.
Systemic reactions are more difficult to resolve, as they are often caused by implants. Removal of the implant is sometimes considered when a non-metal replacement is available and may be used. For example, a plastic-based dental filling material may be used to replace a previous metal dental filling. However, if the allergy is caused by an artificial knee or hip, replacement with a non-metal option is rarely done due to the difficulty of replacement. For these situations, treatment usually involves both topical (surface-applied) and oral medications to reduce the allergic reaction. Due to the difficult nature of treating systemic metal allergies, doctors sometimes recommend a hypersensitivity test before an implant is chosen.
All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2020. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Source: www.medbroadcast.com/condition/getcondition/Metal-Hypersensitivity
The Metal Neurotoxins: An Important Role in Current Human Neural Epidemics?
- PMID: 29206191
- PMCID: PMC5750929
- DOI: 10.3390/ijerph14121511
Abstract
Many published studies have illustrated that several of the present day neurological epidemics (autism, attention deficit disorder, Alzheimer's) cannot be correlated to any single neurotoxicant. However, the present scientific examination of the numerous global blood monitoring databases for adults that include the concentrations of the neurotoxic elements, aluminum (Al), arsenic (As), lead (Pb), manganese (Mn), mercury (Hg), and selenium (Se) clearly indicate that, when considered in combination, for some, the human body may become easily over-burdened. This can be explained by changes in modern lifestyles. Similar data, solely for pregnant women, have been examined confirming this. All these elements are seen to be present in the human body and at not insignificant magnitudes. Currently suggested minimum risk levels (MRL) for humans are discussed and listed together with averages of the reported distributions, together with their spread and maximum values. One observation is that many distributions for pregnant women are not too dissimilar from those of general populations. Women obviously have their individual baseline of neurotoxin values before pregnancy and any efforts to modify this to any significant degree is not yet clearly apparent. For any element, distribution shapes are reasonably similar showing broad distributions with extended tails with numerous outlier values. There are a certain fraction of people that lie well above the MRL values and may be at risk, especially if genetically susceptible. Additionally, synergistic effects between neurotoxins and with other trace metals are now also being reported. It appears prudent for women of child-bearing age to establish their baseline values well before pregnancy. Those at risk then can be better identified. Adequate instrumental testing now is commercially available for this. In addition, directives are necessary for vaccination programs to use only non-neurotoxic adjuvants, especially for young children and all women of child-bearing ages. Additionally, clearer directives concerning fish consumption must now be reappraised.
Keywords: biomarker body levels; fish diets; minimum risk levels (MRLs); neurotoxicants; over-burdens; pregnancy; risk factors; synergism; vaccines.
Alzheimer's disease
Of all your possessions, could there be any more precious than your memories? Unlike diseases that cause pain or loss of function, Alzheimer's disease (AD) is arguably worse, as it strips its victims of their past. Friends and family who helplessly watch the slow decline of the person they love seem to suffer almost as much. Disturbingly common, much about this disease remains a mystery.
The dementias are diseases of the brain causing memory loss, confusion, and loss of intellectual capacity. There is deterioration in emotional control, social behaviour, and motivation. Between the ages of 80 and 85, dementia affects about 1 in 6 people. Among people over 85, it affects about 1 in 3. Over half of these are caused by AD.
Risk factors and prevention
If a close family member developed AD one's risk is increased threefold. For a minority of Alzheimer's victims, an identified gene that produces a detectable protein makes them vulnerable to develop this disorder. But in most other cases we don't know the cause. Suspected causes have included environmental toxins, such as metals (remember throwing out those aluminum pans?), infections, and autoimmune reactions in which the body's immune system attacks one of its tissues.
Misconceptions about vaccines
With all the information available on vaccines, it can be hard to separate fact from fiction. Here's the truth behind some of the most common misconceptions about vaccines.
Do vaccines cause autism?
No. Scientists have studied this for years, in large groups of children, and have found no evidence that there is any link between vaccines and autism. There is also no link between thimerosal (a preservative found in the influenza vaccine but not in any other children's vaccines) and autism. The original study that suggested a link between vaccines (in particular, the measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine) and autism was found to be flawed and incorrect. There were so many problems with this study that the journal that originally published it has retracted it (taken it back).
Do vaccines cause autoimmune disorders or SIDS?
No. You may have heard that vaccines can cause autoimmune disorders (conditions where the immune system attacks the body, such as type 1 diabetes and multiple sclerosis). This is not true. Scientists have done many large studies and have found no evidence that vaccines cause autoimmune disorders.
These guys need to make up thteir mind!
See their own page about "Metal Hypersensitivity" - where it says that people who are sensitive to metals (which can be about 15% of the population) can experience the following conditions (commonly displayed by a person with an Autoimmune condition)
https://medbroadcast.com/condition/getcondition/metal-hypersensitivity
Metal Hypersensitivity
- blistering of the skin.
- chronic fatigue.
- chronic inflammation.
- cognitive impairment.
- depression.
- fibromyalgia.
- hives.
- joint pain.
Vaccines also do not cause SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome). This myth started when people noticed that some infants who died of SIDS had recently been immunized with the diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis vaccine. But it turns out that this was nothing more than a coincidence: SIDS happens in the same age group when the vaccine is usually given, so it would be normal to see some SIDS deaths occur after the vaccine purely due to chance. But the two are completely unrelated: the vaccine did not cause the SIDS deaths - these would have happened regardless of whether the vaccine was given. A number of good-quality studies have confirmed that vaccines do not cause SIDS.
Does giving multiple vaccines overload the immune system?
No. Children often receive more than one immunization at the same health care professional's visit. As a parent, you may wonder whether all the antigens (parts of dead or weakened viruses or bacteria) are just too much for your child's tiny immune system to handle. But the truth is, the antigens from vaccines are just a drop in the bucket compared to the huge number of germs your child is exposed to every day. For example, the vaccines given at your child's 2-month visit contain 34 antigens, but your child is exposed to millions of germs every day. The amount of antigens in vaccines doesn't come close to overwhelming your child's immune system. In fact, the opposite is true - the antigens in these vaccines are helping your child's immune system learn to fight new infections. And having multiple vaccines at the same visit means fewer health care professional's visits, which can save you time and also be less traumatic for your child.
Do vaccines contain toxic ingredients?
No. Vaccine ingredients are carefully evaluated and checked for safety. Let's take a closer look at a few ingredients you may have heard about:
- Thimerosal is added to some vaccines as a preservative. Because thimerosal contains mercury, a panel of researchers investigated whether the levels of mercury in childhood vaccines could damage the nervous system. They found no evidence that these small amounts of mercury caused any nervous system damage in children. The only children's vaccinations that contain thimerosal are some flu vaccines.
- Aluminum is used in some vaccines to produce a stronger response from the immune system so that the vaccine can contain a smaller amount of killed or weakened germs. Aluminum occurs naturally and is found in air, water, and food. The amount of aluminum in vaccines is no more than the amount found in breast milk and baby formula.
- Use critical thinking, people. That does NOT mean it's safe. You still have to research it.
- Formaldehyde helps with vaccine manufacturing. It is used to inactivate certain viruses and toxins. Vaccines contain only a tiny "trace" amount of formaldehyde because most of it is removed when the vaccine is purified during the manufacturing process. The amount in vaccines is much smaller (less than one-tenth the amount) than the amount found naturally in the typical baby's body. The formaldehyde in vaccines is only a concern for people who are allergic to it.
Formaldehyde
What is formaldehyde?
Formaldehyde is a colorless, strong-smelling gas used in making building materials and many household products. It is used in pressed-wood products, such as particleboard, plywood, and fiberboard; glues and adhesives; permanent-press fabrics; paper product coatings; and certain insulation materials. It is also used to make other chemicals.
Formaldehyde is quickly broken down in the air – generally within hours. It dissolves easily in water, but does not last long there, either.
When dissolved in water it is called formalin, which is commonly used as an industrial disinfectant, and as a preservative in funeral homes and medical labs. It can also be used as a preservative in some foods and in products, such as antiseptics, medicines, and cosmetics. Sometimes, although formaldehyde is not used, substances that release formaldehyde are. These have been found in cosmetics, soaps, shampoos, lotions and sunscreens, and cleaning products.
Formaldehyde can be added as a preservative to food, but it can also be produced as the result of cooking and smoking.
Formaldehyde also occurs naturally in the environment. Humans and most other living organisms make small amounts as part of normal metabolic processes.
How are people exposed to formaldehyde?
The main way people are exposed to formaldehyde is by inhaling it. The liquid form can be absorbed through the skin. People can also be exposed to small amounts by eating foods or drinking liquids containing formaldehyde.
Formaldehyde is normally made in the body. Enzymes in the body break down formaldehyde into formate (formic acid), which can be further broken down into carbon dioxide. Most inhaled formaldehyde is broken down by the cells lining the mouth, nose, throat, and airways, so that less than a third is absorbed into the blood.
According to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, formaldehyde is normally present at low levels (less than 0.03 parts per million) in both indoor and outdoor air. Materials containing formaldehyde can release it as a gas or vapor into the air. Automobile exhaust is a major source of formaldehyde in outdoor air.
During the 1970s, urea-formaldehyde foam insulation (UFFI) was used in many homes. But few homes are now insulated with UFFI. Homes in which UFFI was installed many years ago are not likely to have high formaldehyde levels now.
Pressed-wood products containing formaldehyde resins are often a source of formaldehyde in homes. Using unvented fuel-burning appliances, such as gas stoves, wood-burning stoves, and kerosene heaters can also raise formaldehyde levels indoors.
Formaldehyde is also a component of tobacco smoke and both smokers and those breathing secondhand smoke are exposed to higher levels of formaldehyde. One study found much higher levels of formaldehyde bound to DNA in the white blood cells of smokers compared to non-smokers.
Formaldehyde and other chemicals that release formaldehyde are sometimes used in low concentrations in cosmetics and other personal care products like lotions, shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, and some fingernail polishes. These may raise the concentration of formaldehyde in the air inside the room for a short time, but the levels reached are far below what is considered to be hazardous.
Professional keratin hair smoothing treatments can contain formaldehyde or formaldehyde releasing chemicals. Using these can raise indoor air concentrations of formaldehyde to levels that could be a potential hazard.
Workers in industries that make formaldehyde or formaldehyde-containing products, lab technicians, some health care professionals, and funeral home employees may be exposed to higher levels of formaldehyde than the general public. Exposure occurs mainly by inhaling formaldehyde gas or vapor from the air or by absorbing liquids containing formaldehyde through the skin. In one large study of workers in industries that make or use formaldehyde, the average level of formaldehyde exposure was 0.45 parts per million (ppm) overall, with less than 3% of workers experiencing more than 2 ppm on average.
Can formaldehyde cause cancer?
Exposure to formaldehyde has been shown to cause cancer in laboratory test animals. Exposure to relatively high amounts of formaldehyde in medical and occupational settings has been linked to some types of cancer in humans, but the effect of exposure to small amounts is less clear.
Studies in the lab
In rats, inhaled formaldehyde was linked to cancers of the nasal cavity and leukemia. In one study of rats given drinking water containing formaldehyde there was an increase in stomach tumors, while another showed no increase in any kind of tumor or cancer.
In mice, applying a 10% solution of formaldehyde to the skin was linked to quicker development of cancers caused by another chemical.
Studies in people
In one study, inhaling formaldehyde at levels at a concentration of 1.9 parts per million (ppm) for 40 minutes did not increase blood levels of formaldehyde.
Several epidemiology studies of people exposed to formaldehyde in the workplace have reported a link between formaldehyde exposure and cancer of the nasopharynx (the uppermost part of the throat), but this outcome has not been observed in other studies. These studies looked at workers in occupational setting that use or make formaldehyde and formaldehyde resins, as well as at people who work as embalmers.
Studies of people exposed to formaldehyde in the workplace have also found a possible link to cancer of the nasal sinuses.
Several studies have found that embalmers and medical professionals that use formaldehyde have an increased risk of leukemia, particularly myeloid leukemia. Some studies of industrial workers exposed to formaldehyde have also found increased risks of leukemia, but not all studies have shown an increased risk.
Studies looking at the link between workplace exposure to formaldehyde and other types of cancer have not found a consistent link.
One study found that workers exposed to formaldehyde had higher than normal levels of chromosome changes in early white blood cells in their bone marrow. This finding supports the possible link between formaldehyde exposure and leukemia.
What expert agencies say
Several agencies (national and international) study different substances in the environment to determine if they can cause cancer. (A substance that causes cancer or helps cancer grow is called a carcinogen.) The American Cancer Society looks to these organizations to evaluate the risks based on evidence from laboratory, animal, and human research studies.
Based on the available evidence, some of these expert agencies have evaluated the cancer-causing potential of formaldehyde.
The National Toxicology Program (NTP) is formed from parts of several different US government agencies, including the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The NTP lists formaldehyde as "known to be a human carcinogen."
The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) is part of the World Health Organization (WHO). Its major goal is to identify causes of cancer. IARC has concluded that formaldehyde is "carcinogenic to humans" based on higher risks of nasopharyngeal cancer and leukemia.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) maintains the Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS), an electronic database that contains information on human health effects from exposure to various substances in the environment. The EPA has classified formaldehyde as a "probable human carcinogen."
National Cancer Institute researchers have concluded that, based on data from studies in people and from lab research, exposure to formaldehyde may cause leukemia, particularly myeloid leukemia, in humans.
(For more information on the classification systems used by some of these agencies, see Known and Probable Human Carcinogens.)
Does formaldehyde cause any other health problems?
When formaldehyde is present in the air at levels higher than 0.1 parts per million (ppm), some people may have health effects, such as:
- watery eyes
- burning sensations of the eyes, nose, and throat
- coughing
- wheezing
- nausea
- skin irritation
Some people are very sensitive to formaldehyde, but others have no reaction to the same level of exposure.
Formaldehyde in consumer products such as cosmetics and lotions can cause an allergic reaction in the skin (allergic contact dermatitis), which can lead to an itchy, red rash which may become raised or develop blisters.
How can I limit my exposure to formaldehyde?
In the home
The EPA recommends using "exterior-grade" pressed-wood products to limit formaldehyde exposure in the home. These products give off less formaldehyde because they contain phenol resins, not urea resins. Before buying pressed-wood products, including building materials, cabinetry, and furniture, buyers should ask about the formaldehyde content of these products.
Formaldehyde levels in homes can also be reduced by not allowing smoking inside and by ensuring adequate ventilation (use your stove vent fan for example), moderate temperatures, and reduced humidity levels through the use of air conditioners and dehumidifiers.
People who are concerned about formaldehyde exposure from personal care products and cosmetics can avoid using products that contain or release formaldehyde. Still, because the amount of formaldehyde released from these products is low, it isn’t clear that this will provide any health benefit.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4378717/
High HIV, HPV, and STI prevalence among young Western Cape, South African women: EVRI HIV prevention preparedness trial
Associated Data
Introduction
Despite years of study and interventions, HIV prevalence among women in sub-Saharan Africa remains persistently high and is highest among young women in South Africa.1 In 2011, the prevalence of HIV was 29.5% among South African women ages 15-49 years attending their first antenatal care visit.2 The underlying cause of this high HIV burden is likely due to a combination of factors, including high prevalence of HIV in the general population, early age at first sexual intercourse, multiple sexual partners, and co-infection with other sexual transmitted infections (STIs).3
In addition to a high HIV burden, women and men residing in southern African countries have among the highest burden of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and related cancers worldwide.4-7 A growing literature suggests that, similar to HSV-2 and bacterial STIs, HPV infection may increase susceptibility to HIV. HPV was associated with a two- to three-fold increase in HIV acquisition among U.S. men who have sex with men 8 and among African men in adult male circumcision trials.9,10 Similarly, results from four observational studies conducted among women in Zimbabwe, 11,12 South Africa,13 and Rwanda14 showed that HPV infection increased risk of HIV acquisition twofold. Collectively, these data have led to a new concept in which HPV and HIV infections may be bi-directional, each increasing the risk of the other.15-19 However, an inherent problem with observational studies is that HPV and HIV infection may be associated for reasons other than biological interaction, such as residual confounding by sexual behavior. A randomized controlled trial is needed to definitively assess whether HPV prevention with a highly efficacious and relatively simple intervention decreases HIV acquisition. In studies to date, HPV infection with either low-risk or high-risk types appears to confer risk for HIV, implying that a vaccine directed at multiple HPV types is needed to reduce this risk. As such, the 9-valent HPV vaccine has recently completed international Phase III trials, demonstrating safety20 and clinical efficacy.21
The purpose of the current Phase II Trial was to assess the feasibility of conducting a placebo-controlled randomized HPV vaccine trial in a female population at high risk for HIV and to estimate the prevalence and incidence of HIV, HPV, and other STIs by age.
Materials and Methods
Population
Women residing in the Western Cape, South Africa were enrolled from November 2012 to July 2013 in a preparedness study, the Efficacy of HPV Vaccine to Reduce HIV Infection (EVRI) Trial (NCT01489527). Participants were recruited from the Kraaifontein day hospital and the Bloekombos primary health care clinic by community workers and through word of mouth, flyers, and brochures. Study recruitment messaging invited women to participate in a vaccine study against cervical cancer. The informed consent form presented the link between HPV and HIV and informed potential participants that the study would be used to determine whether it would be possible to conduct a larger study in the future to evaluate the potential utility of the cervical cancer vaccine in preventing HIV infection. To encourage compliance with follow-up, women received compensation for time and transportation at each visit.
The enrolled population consisted of women who met the following eligibility criteria: a) ages 16-24; b) no abnormal Pap smear history; c) reported having vaginal intercourse; d) not currently pregnant or breastfeeding; e) HIV-negative; f) no autoimmune disease requiring steroid use; g) never had a splenectomy; h) not currently enrolled in an HIV prevention trial; i) no IV drug or crystal methylamphetamine use in the past 6 months; j) no history of serious allergic reactions requiring medical attention; k) no allergies to aluminum, yeast, or benzonase; l) no previous HPV vaccination; m) willingness to comply with four scheduled visits within the next seven months; and n) agreed to use effective contraception during sexual intercourse for the vaccination period.
This study was conducted in accordance with ethics committee review and approved by the Institutional Review Boards of The University of South Florida and Stellenbosch University. South African policies and ethics approval regarding parental permission for children to take part in research studies were followed. Parents provided consent for minor study participants (16-17 years old), including testing for HIV. Minors provided assent. Parents/legal guardians were informed of their child's HIV test results.
Study Protocol
A Phase II randomized controlled trial of Gardasil vs. placebo (saline), given per label, was conducted among females ages 16-24. After confirming trial eligibility and obtaining consent, the EVRI Trial consisted of: 1) completion of a study questionnaire and testing for pregnancy and HIV; and 2) randomization of HIV-negative, non-pregnant females to vaccine or placebo with active follow-up for seven months (one month post-dose three of the vaccine). Women with a positive pregnancy test or HIV test at enrollment were referred for clinical care and management.
Trial-eligible women were randomized 1:1 to receive Gardasil or placebo vaccines. All staff and study investigators were blinded to participants' vaccine status except the pharmacist dispensing the vaccine (SK). Vaccine was administered at enrollment, month 2, and month 6. Study participants were followed for one month after the last vaccine dose (through month 7). At month 7, individual unblinding occurred, and women randomized to the placebo group were offered Gardasil vaccine.
At each follow-up visit after randomization, urine pregnancy tests and rapid HIV tests were performed. Women with positive pregnancy tests were referred to care and removed from the study, as pregnancy is contraindicated for HPV vaccination. Women with a positive rapid HIV test were retested with two different confirmatory tests. Participants with a confirmed positive HIV test after the enrollment visit were referred to care and remained on trial.22
At enrollment, sexual history, health, and sociodemographic characteristics were assessed by a tablet-based questionnaire using a computer-assisted self-interview available in English, Xhosa, and Afrikaans. In the enrollment questionnaire, 116 participants reported not having had vaginal intercourse, despite having reported previous vaginal intercourse during the eligibility screening. In-depth qualitative interviews with participants revealed confusion with the term “vaginal.” Consequently, different types of intercourse were explained to participants to prevent future misreporting of sexual history. We then compared the prevalence of HPV, chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and HSV-2 between the group reporting a valid sexual history (n=351) and the “virgin group” (n=116) and found no significant differences.
HSV-2 antibody and syphilis testing was measured in serum at enrollment. At the enrollment and month 7 study visits, an additional blood specimen was collected to measure HPV antibodies. If a participant HIV seroconverted, CD4 counts were quantified from the specimen obtained at the visit when HIV was first detected. Gonorrhea and chlamydia urine testing was performed at enrollment and month 6. The external genitalia were examined for skin pigmentation, lesions, skin irritation, discharge, nodules, and condylomata at enrollment and month 7. A speculum exam of the vagina was conducted and, after collection of specimens, a digital vaginal exam was performed. Samples obtained from the vulva/labia and endocervical/ectocervical specimens for HPV detection were obtained at enrollment and month 7 visit using a pre-wetted Dacron cotton swab placed in an STM collection vial (Digene Hybrid Capture test kit). Specimens for HPV analysis were archived at 4°C prior to testing. Cervical cytology specimens were obtained at enrollment using the SurePath method. If Pap smear results were greater than atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASCUS)/low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (LSIL), the participant was referred to the local clinic for a repeat Pap smear and further clinical management as indicated. If Pap smear results were high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL), the participant was referred to the study gynecologist (HB) for colposcopy and clinical management as indicated.
Participants testing positive for HIV, syphilis, gonorrhea, or chlamydia were immediately contacted and provided with STI results and treatment as indicated. Counseling was offered to all study participants at each clinical visit, regardless of age, per South African guidelines, including provision of condoms at no cost.
https://www.google.com/search?q=allergy+definition&rlz=1C1CHBD_enUS903US903&oq=allergy+definition&aqs=chrome..69i57.2746j0j7&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8
- a damaging immune response by the body to a substance, especially pollen, fur, a particular food, or dust, to which it has become hypersensitive.
- INFORMALan antipathy."their allergy to free enterprise"
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