Nothing as easy and harmless as heating your food in a plastic pot in the microwave. But did you know that this could increase your exposure to endocrine disruptors?? A survey by the Independent Health Insurance Funds shows that almost half of the Belgian population does not know what endocrine disruptors are. However, they can be harmful to health.
Almost 60% of those surveyed say they are not aware that endocrine disruptors can cause health problems or have a negative impact on the development of babies, children and adolescents. One third is aware of the presence of harmful substances in pesticides, but less is known that plastic packaging materials, care products and toys may contain endocrine disruptors
Daily habits
The survey results confirm that many people have daily habits that could increase exposure to endocrine disruptors, say the Independent Health Insurance Funds. “For example, 61% of the respondents sometimes heat their food in a plastic jar, 64% do not check which substances are present when buying cosmetics, and 50% do not think about washing new clothes first before putting them on. ”
Raise awareness
The Independent Health Insurance Funds argue for more information and awareness-raising. “As a health insurance fund, we have to inform our members about this,” says Director General Xavier Brenez. “It is a complex matter and that means that it is important that the messages are formulated in a clear and understandable way. Healthcare providers also play an important role in this. Three in four respondents expect doctors, pharmacists or gynecologists to inform them about endocrine disruptors. ”
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