![](https://www.ewg.org/sites/humantoxome/images/maintop.jpg)
about this participant:
Monique Harden, a lawyer from New Orleans, LA, participated in the 2003 biomonitoring investigation entitled "EWG/Commonweal Study #1, industrial chemicals and pesticides in adults." She gave blood and urine for the study at age 34.
Monique is an attorney who specializes in environmental justice concerns in New Orleans, the city where she was raised. She organizes communities who live on the fenceline with polluting industries, using both litigation and advocacy to fight for both economic and environmental justice. Among the victories she can claim is a precedent-setting decision by the Environmental Protection Agency to deny a Clean Air Act permit to a company proposing a new facility in a neighborhood that was 80 percent African American and already surrounded by 12 industrial facilities responsible for 17 million pounds of air pollutants.
Related links:
Location:
New Orleans, LA
Participant's groups:
Women of Childbearing Age, Female, Adult
Study:
EWG/Commonweal Study #1, industrial chemicals and pesticides in adults
health & safety concerns: |
chemicals found in this person |
Immune system (including sensitization and allergies) | 29 |
Brain and nervous system | 19 |
Birth defects and developmental delays | 14 |
Reproduction and fertility | 4 |
Gastrointestinal (including liver) | 1 |
Endocrine system | 1 |
Chronic effects, general | 1 |
![picture of Monique Harden](../images/photos/photo_bb1_sub8.jpg)
Participant: Monique Harden
Found 71.5-76 of 214 tested chemicals
Monique Harden's blood and urine contained 71.5-76 of 214 industrial compounds, pollutants and other chemicals tested, including chemicals linked to immune system toxicity, brain and nervous system toxicity, and birth defects and developmental delays.
- This participant's samples show the highest levels of Pentachlorophenol, Cadmium, Diethylphosphate (DEP) compared to all others in EWG studies
- This participant's samples show above average levels of Dimethylphosphate (DMP), 1,2,3,4,6,7,8,9-OCDD (octadioxin), Chlorinated dioxins & furans and Lead compared to all others in EWG studies
Summary of chemicals found in Monique Harden
chemical family | level found | health effects | exposure routes |
Volatile and semivolatile organic compounds (VOCs and SVOCs) | found, not quantified | Contaminated indoor and outdoor air | |
Phthalates | found, not quantified | Endocrine system | Cosmetics, paint, soft plastic, food packaging, and other consumer products |
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) | moderate | Brain and nervous system, Immune system (including sensitization and allergies) | Dietary sources, fatty meat, dairy and fish |
Organochlorine Pesticides (OCs) | high | Reproduction and fertility | Contaminated food and drinking water |
Chlorinated dioxins & furans | moderate | Immune system (including sensitization and allergies), Birth defects and developmental delays | Dietary sources, fatty meat, dairy and fish |
Organophosphate Pesticide metabolites (OPs) | high | Brain and nervous system | Contaminated food and drinking water |
Cadmium | high | Contaminated food and drinking water, cigarette smoke, contaminated factory air | |
Lead | high | Lead-based paint in older homes, household dust, vinyl products, tap water |
Detailed report by chemical (return to summary)
volatile and semivolatile organic compounds (vocs and svocs)
33 of 76 found
Used in wide range of household, craft, and industrial products. Common tap water and air pollutants. Includes neurotoxins and carcinogens.
- cumulative level found: found, but not quantified
Total Volatile and semivolatile organic compounds (VOCs and SVOCs)
- level found: found, but not quantified
- level found: found, but not quantified
- level found: found, but not quantified
- level found: found, but not quantified
- level found: found, but not quantified
- level found: found, but not quantified
- level found: found, but not quantified
- level found: found, but not quantified
- level found: found, but not quantified
- level found: found, but not quantified
- level found: found, but not quantified
- level found: found, but not quantified
2,4-bis(1,1-dimethylethyl)-6-methyl-Phenol
- level found: found, but not quantified
bis(1-methylpropyl) ester Hexanedioic acid
- level found: found, but not quantified
- level found: found, but not quantified
- level found: found, but not quantified
- level found: found, but not quantified
- level found: found, but not quantified
(1,2-dimethylbutyl)-Cyclohexane
- level found: found, but not quantified
- level found: found, but not quantified
1-methyl-2-propyl-Cyclopentane
- level found: found, but not quantified
Cyclohexane causes neurological, respiratory, gastrointestinal tract, liver, kidney, developmental, and cardiovascular toxicity in animals. Irritate the eyes and skin in humans.
- level found: found, but not quantified
- level found: found, but not quantified
- level found: found, but not quantified
1-(trimethyloxiranyl)-Ethanone
- level found: found, but not quantified
- level found: found, but not quantified
- level found: found, but not quantified
- level found: found, but not quantified
Industrial solvent; in humans, damages nervous system; in animals, fetal and adult exposure causes significant neurotoxicity.
- level found: found, but not quantified
No specific toxicology data for this chemical, but family associated with eye irritation, nausea, vomiting, and neurological, respiratory, liver, and kidney toxicity.
- level found: found, but not quantified
- level found: found, but not quantified
- level found: found, but not quantified
- level found: found, but not quantified
phthalates
3 of 6 found
In cosmetics, paint, and plastics. Linked to sperm damage and birth defects of male reproductive system.
- cumulative level found: found, but not quantified
Total Phthalates
Used in nail polish, cosmetics, and other consumer products; linked to birth defects and male reproductive issues.
- level found: found, but not quantified
Used in consumer products, particularly those containing fragrances. Linked to male reproductive problems in people; animal studies indicate multiple toxicities.
- level found: found, but not quantified
Used in insect repellant, plastic, rocket propellant. DMP is linked to liver toxicity, and its breakdown product is linked to male reproductive system problems in people.
- level found: found, but not quantified
polychlorinated biphenyls (pcbs)
10.5-15 of 77 found
Banned industrial insulators and lubricants. Cause cancer and nervous system problems.
- cumulative level found: 34.2 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
- Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (58th %ile)
- Moderate vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (52nd %ile) (comparison based on congeners tested by CDC)
2.95 | ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum | 600 |
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Total Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)
In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.
- level found: 1.46 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
- High vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (80th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum | 5.08 | |
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In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.
- level found: 1.76 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
- Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (60th %ile)
- Low vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (16th %ile)
0.0371 | ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum | 34.3 |
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In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.
- level found: 8.49 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
- Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (63rd %ile)
- Moderate vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (37th %ile)
0.211 | ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum | 112 |
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In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.
- level found: 1.1 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
- Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (66th %ile)
- Low vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (14th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum | 8.68 | |
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In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.
- level found: 2.64 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
- Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (60th %ile)
- Low vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (17th %ile)
0.0607 | ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum | 36.4 |
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In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.
- level found: 8.16 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
- Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (66th %ile)
- Moderate vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (29th %ile)
0.297 | ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum | 72.6 |
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In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.
- level found: 1.32 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
- Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (63rd %ile)
- Low vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (14th %ile)
0.0243 | ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum | 14 |
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In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.
- level found: 9.8 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
- Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (63rd %ile)
- Moderate vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (28th %ile)
0.379 | ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum | 96.5 |
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In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.
- level found: 1.55 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
- Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (63rd %ile)
- Low vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (14th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum | 14.6 | |
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In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.
- level found: 1.43 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
- High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (80th %ile)
- Low vs 2,547 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (11th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum | 17.4 | |
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In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.
- level found: 7.37 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
- Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (66th %ile)
- Moderate vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (65th %ile)
0.212 | ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum | 30.8 |
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In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.
- level found: 3.45 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
- Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (69th %ile)
- Low vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (25th %ile)
0.0828 | ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum | 14.9 |
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In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.
- level found: 5.08 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
- Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (69th %ile)
- Moderate vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (51st %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum | 25.4 | |
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In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.
- level found: 1.8 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
- High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (80th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum | 2.83 | |
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In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.
- level found: 1.88 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
- Moderate vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (74th %ile)
- Moderate vs 2,274 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (61st %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum | 5.81 | |
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organochlorine pesticides (ocs)
4 of 23 found
Includes DDT, chlordane, other pesticides. Largely banned in the U.S. Build up in the human body over time. Cause cancer and reproductive harm.
- cumulative level found: 1.26 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
- Low vs 27 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (19th %ile)
- Low vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (12th %ile) (comparison based on congeners tested by CDC)
0.615 | ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum | 2830 |
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Total Organochlorine Pesticides (OCs)
Organochlorine chemical, a class largely banned in the U.S. that builds up in the body over time, linked to cancer and reproductive harm.
- level found: 0.0948 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
- Low vs 27 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (12th %ile)
- Low vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (12th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum | 2560 | |
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Organochlorine chemical, a class largely banned in the U.S. that builds up in the body over time, linked to cancer and reproductive harm.
- level found: 1.09 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
- Moderate vs 27 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (67th %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum | 37.1 | |
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Organochlorine chemical, a class largely banned in the U.S. that builds up in the body over time, linked to cancer and reproductive harm.
- level found: 0.0786 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
- Moderate vs 26 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (43rd %ile)
ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum | 1.28 | |
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Organochlorine chemical, a class largely banned in the U.S. that builds up in the body over time, linked to cancer and reproductive harm.
- level found: 1.4 ppb in urine
- High vs 9 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (99th %ile)
ppb in urine | 1.4 | |
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chlorinated dioxins & furans
14 of 17 found
Pollutants from PVC production, industrial bleaching, and incineration. Cause cancer and may harm hormone system.
- cumulative level found: 613 pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
- High vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (80th %ile)
- Moderate vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (70th %ile) (comparison based on congeners tested by CDC)
5 | pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum | 1860 |
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Total Chlorinated dioxins & furans
Heptachlorinated dioxins
Chlorinated dioxins are unwanted byproducts of the manufacture and burning of products that contain chlorine. Dioxins cause cancer in humans, and they are generally considered to be among the most toxic environmental contaminants known to man. As a class, dioxins are extremely toxic, persistent, bioaccumulative, and lipophilic ("fat-loving"). This means that dioxins build up and are stored in fatty tissues and fluids, such as breast milk, and can be passed on to fetuses and infants during pregnancy and lactation. Most people are exposed to dioxin through the food they eat, primarily from meat, dairy, fish and eggs.
In humans, dioxins are associated with cancer, skin lesions, damage to the nervous system and immune system, altered carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, thyroid disruption, altered menstrual cycling, and cardiovascular effects.
In laboratory animals, dioxins are known to cause a variety of effects including cancer and impaired reproductive, endocrine, cardiovascular, immune, respiratory, neurological and metabolic function. In addition, dioxins cause skin disease and birth defects.
1,2,3,4,6,7,8-HpCDD (heptadioxin)
In dioxin family of chemicals - pollutants from PVC production, industrial bleaching, incineration; cause cancer, may harm hormone system.
- level found: 58.2 pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
- High vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (83rd %ile)
- High vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (82nd %ile)
pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum | 125 | |
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Heptachlorinated furans
Chlorinated furans, also called chlorinated dibenzofurans or CDFs, are toxic, persistent, bioaccumulative, and lipophilic ("fat-loving""). This means that CDFs build up and are stored in fatty tissues and fluid, such as breast milk, and can be passed on to fetuses and infants during pregnancy and lactation.
In humans, CDFs are associated with premature birth and abnormal development, liver toxicity, skin disease, eye inflammation, and damage to the nervous, immune, endocrine, and reproductive systems (ATSDR 1994b).
In laboratory animals, CDFs are known to cause a variety of effects including damage to the reproductive, endocrine, immune, and nervous systems. In addition, CDFs harm the kidneys and gastrointestinal tract, and cause birth defects (ATSDR 1994b).
1,2,3,4,6,7,8-HpCDF (heptafuran)
In chlorinated furan family of chemicals - pollutants from PVC production, industrial bleaching, incineration; cause cancer, may harm hormone system.
- level found: 7.78 pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum [M]
- Moderate vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (71st %ile)
- Moderate vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (72nd %ile)
pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum | 61.4 | |
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1,2,3,4,7,8,9-HpCDF (heptafuran)
In chlorinated furan family of chemicals - pollutants from PVC production, industrial bleaching, incineration; cause cancer, may harm hormone system.
- level found: 0.522 pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum [M]
- High vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (77th %ile)
- High vs 2,547 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (99th %ile)
pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum | 20 | |
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Hexachlorinated dioxins
Chlorinated dioxins are unwanted byproducts of the manufacture and burning of products that contain chlorine. Dioxins cause cancer in humans, and they are generally considered to be among the most toxic environmental contaminants known to man. As a class, dioxins are extremely toxic, persistent, bioaccumulative, and lipophilic ("fat-loving"). This means that dioxins build up and are stored in fatty tissues and fluids, such as breast milk, and can be passed on to fetuses and infants during pregnancy and lactation. Most people are exposed to dioxin through the food they eat, primarily from meat, dairy, fish and eggs.
In humans, dioxins are associated with cancer, skin lesions, damage to the nervous system and immune system, altered carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, thyroid disruption, altered menstrual cycling, and cardiovascular effects.
In laboratory animals, dioxins are known to cause a variety of effects including cancer and impaired reproductive, endocrine, cardiovascular, immune, respiratory, neurological and metabolic function. In addition, dioxins cause skin disease and birth defects.
1,2,3,6,7,8-HxCDD (hexadioxin)
In dioxin family of chemicals - pollutants from PVC production, industrial bleaching, incineration; cause cancer, may harm hormone system.
- level found: 20.1 pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
- Moderate vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (59th %ile)
- Moderate vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (68th %ile)
pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum | 63.7 | |
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1,2,3,7,8,9-HxCDD (hexadioxin)
In dioxin family of chemicals - pollutants from PVC production, industrial bleaching, incineration; cause cancer, may harm hormone system.
- level found: 5.17 pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
- Moderate vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (68th %ile)
- Moderate vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (69th %ile)
pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum | 24.3 | |
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Hexachlorinated furans
Chlorinated furans, also called chlorinated dibenzofurans or CDFs, are toxic, persistent, bioaccumulative, and lipophilic ("fat-loving""). This means that CDFs build up and are stored in fatty tissues and fluid, such as breast milk, and can be passed on to fetuses and infants during pregnancy and lactation.
In humans, CDFs are associated with premature birth and abnormal development, liver toxicity, skin disease, eye inflammation, and damage to the nervous, immune, endocrine, and reproductive systems (ATSDR 1994b).
In laboratory animals, CDFs are known to cause a variety of effects including damage to the reproductive, endocrine, immune, and nervous systems. In addition, CDFs harm the kidneys and gastrointestinal tract, and cause birth defects (ATSDR 1994b).
In chlorinated furan family of chemicals - pollutants from PVC production, industrial bleaching, incineration; cause cancer, may harm hormone system.
- level found: 3.63 pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum [M]
- Moderate vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (68th %ile)
- Moderate vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (59th %ile)
pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum | 24.3 | |
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In chlorinated furan family of chemicals - pollutants from PVC production, industrial bleaching, incineration; cause cancer, may harm hormone system.
- level found: 2.75 pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
- Moderate vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (59th %ile)
- Moderate vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (52nd %ile)
pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum | 22.9 | |
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In chlorinated furan family of chemicals - pollutants from PVC production, industrial bleaching, incineration; cause cancer, may harm hormone system.
- level found: 0.55 pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
- High vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (89th %ile)
- High vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (98th %ile)
pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum | 20 | |
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In chlorinated furan family of chemicals - pollutants from PVC production, industrial bleaching, incineration; cause cancer, may harm hormone system.
- level found: 1.89 pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum [M]
- Moderate vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (68th %ile)
pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum | 13.6 | |
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Octachlorinated dioxins
Chlorinated dioxins are unwanted byproducts of the manufacture and burning of products that contain chlorine. Dioxins cause cancer in humans, and they are generally considered to be among the most toxic environmental contaminants known to man. As a class, dioxins are extremely toxic, persistent, bioaccumulative, and lipophilic ("fat-loving"). This means that dioxins build up and are stored in fatty tissues and fluids, such as breast milk, and can be passed on to fetuses and infants during pregnancy and lactation. Most people are exposed to dioxin through the food they eat, primarily from meat, dairy, fish and eggs.
In humans, dioxins are associated with cancer, skin lesions, damage to the nervous system and immune system, altered carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, thyroid disruption, altered menstrual cycling, and cardiovascular effects.
In laboratory animals, dioxins are known to cause a variety of effects including cancer and impaired reproductive, endocrine, cardiovascular, immune, respiratory, neurological and metabolic function. In addition, dioxins cause skin disease and birth defects.
1,2,3,4,6,7,8,9-OCDD (octadioxin)
In dioxin family of chemicals - pollutants from PVC production, industrial bleaching, incineration; cause cancer, may harm hormone system.
- level found: 496 pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
- High vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (83rd %ile)
pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum | 1590 | |
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Octachlorinated furans
Chlorinated furans, also called chlorinated dibenzofurans or CDFs, are toxic, persistent, bioaccumulative, and lipophilic ("fat-loving""). This means that CDFs build up and are stored in fatty tissues and fluid, such as breast milk, and can be passed on to fetuses and infants during pregnancy and lactation.
In humans, CDFs are associated with premature birth and abnormal development, liver toxicity, skin disease, eye inflammation, and damage to the nervous, immune, endocrine, and reproductive systems (ATSDR 1994b).
In laboratory animals, CDFs are known to cause a variety of effects including damage to the reproductive, endocrine, immune, and nervous systems. In addition, CDFs harm the kidneys and gastrointestinal tract, and cause birth defects (ATSDR 1994b).
1,2,3,4,6,7,8,9-OCDF (octafuran)
In chlorinated furan family of chemicals - pollutants from PVC production, industrial bleaching, incineration; cause cancer, may harm hormone system.
- level found: 3 pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
- Moderate vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (65th %ile)
pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum | 97.1 | |
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Pentachlorinated dioxins
Chlorinated dioxins are unwanted byproducts of the manufacture and burning of products that contain chlorine. Dioxins cause cancer in humans, and they are generally considered to be among the most toxic environmental contaminants known to man. As a class, dioxins are extremely toxic, persistent, bioaccumulative, and lipophilic ("fat-loving"). This means that dioxins build up and are stored in fatty tissues and fluids, such as breast milk, and can be passed on to fetuses and infants during pregnancy and lactation. Most people are exposed to dioxin through the food they eat, primarily from meat, dairy, fish and eggs.
In humans, dioxins are associated with cancer, skin lesions, damage to the nervous system and immune system, altered carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, thyroid disruption, altered menstrual cycling, and cardiovascular effects.
In laboratory animals, dioxins are known to cause a variety of effects including cancer and impaired reproductive, endocrine, cardiovascular, immune, respiratory, neurological and metabolic function. In addition, dioxins cause skin disease and birth defects.
In dioxin family of chemicals - pollutants from PVC production, industrial bleaching, incineration; cause cancer, may harm hormone system.
- level found: 7.02 pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum [M]
- Moderate vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (68th %ile)
- High vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (89th %ile)
pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum | 14.5 | |
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Pentachlorinated furans
Chlorinated furans, also called chlorinated dibenzofurans or CDFs, are toxic, persistent, bioaccumulative, and lipophilic ("fat-loving""). This means that CDFs build up and are stored in fatty tissues and fluid, such as breast milk, and can be passed on to fetuses and infants during pregnancy and lactation.
In humans, CDFs are associated with premature birth and abnormal development, liver toxicity, skin disease, eye inflammation, and damage to the nervous, immune, endocrine, and reproductive systems (ATSDR 1994b).
In laboratory animals, CDFs are known to cause a variety of effects including damage to the reproductive, endocrine, immune, and nervous systems. In addition, CDFs harm the kidneys and gastrointestinal tract, and cause birth defects (ATSDR 1994b).
In chlorinated furan family of chemicals - pollutants from PVC production, industrial bleaching, incineration; cause cancer, may harm hormone system.
- level found: 2.87 pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum [M]
- Moderate vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (53rd %ile)
pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum | 11.7 | |
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Tetrachlorinated dioxins
Chlorinated dioxins are unwanted byproducts of the manufacture and burning of products that contain chlorine. Dioxins cause cancer in humans, and they are generally considered to be among the most toxic environmental contaminants known to man. As a class, dioxins are extremely toxic, persistent, bioaccumulative, and lipophilic ("fat-loving"). This means that dioxins build up and are stored in fatty tissues and fluids, such as breast milk, and can be passed on to fetuses and infants during pregnancy and lactation. Most people are exposed to dioxin through the food they eat, primarily from meat, dairy, fish and eggs.
In humans, dioxins are associated with cancer, skin lesions, damage to the nervous system and immune system, altered carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, thyroid disruption, altered menstrual cycling, and cardiovascular effects.
In laboratory animals, dioxins are known to cause a variety of effects including cancer and impaired reproductive, endocrine, cardiovascular, immune, respiratory, neurological and metabolic function. In addition, dioxins cause skin disease and birth defects.
In dioxin family of chemicals - pollutants from PVC production, industrial bleaching, incineration; cause cancer, may harm hormone system.
- level found: 3.09 pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum [M]
- High vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (77th %ile)
pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum | 7.12 | |
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metals
2 of 5 found
In batteries, pigments, coatings, plastic and cigarette smoke. Cadmium causes cancer and is linked to birth defects and kidney damage.
- level found: 0.7 ppb in urine
- High vs 9 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (99th %ile)
ppb in urine | 0.7 | |
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Neurotoxic heavy metal linked to IQ deficits and behavioral problems. Found in dust from chipping lead paint in older homes, and in some tap water.
- level found: 2.94 ug/dL (wet weight) in whole blood
- High vs 71 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (79th %ile)
- High vs 8,373 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (85th %ile)
0.222 | ug/dL (wet weight) in whole blood | 4.7 |
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organophosphate pesticide metabolites (ops)
5 of 9 found
Breakdown products from pesticides, including Dursban, formerly used in homes and currently used on produce. Can damage brain development.
- cumulative level found: 52.9 ppb in urine
- High vs 9 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (78th %ile)
4 | ppb in urine | 70.4 |
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Total Organophosphate Pesticide metabolites (OPs)
Chlorpyrifos metabolite (3,5,6-TCP)
Organophosphate pesticides were previously marketed for home use and are now used on produce. Known neurotoxins that are particularly toxic to developing fetuses, infants and children
- level found: 8.9 ppb in urine
- High vs 9 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (89th %ile)
ppb in urine | 24.1 | |
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Organophosphate pesticides were previously marketed for home use and are now used on produce. Known neurotoxins that are particularly toxic to developing fetuses, infants and children.
- level found: 9 ppb in urine
- High vs 9 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (99th %ile)
ppb in urine | 9 | |
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Organophosphate pesticides were previously marketed for home use and are now used on produce. Known neurotoxins that are particularly toxic to developing fetuses, infants and children.
- level found: 26 ppb in urine
- High vs 9 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (89th %ile)
ppb in urine | 28 | |
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Dimethylphosphorothidate (DMPT)
Organophosphate pesticides were previously marketed for home use and are now used on produce. Known neurotoxins that are particularly toxic to developing fetuses, infants and children.
- level found: 6 ppb in urine
- Moderate vs 9 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (56th %ile)
ppb in urine | 21 | |
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Organophosphate pesticides were previously marketed for home use and are now used on produce. Known neurotoxins that are particularly toxic to developing fetuses, infants and children.
- level found: 3 ppb in urine
- High vs 9 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (78th %ile)
ppb in urine | 8 | |
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Chemicals not found in Monique Harden
138 chemicals
4-tert-Octylphenol, 2,3,7,8-TCDF (tetrafuran), 1,2,3,7,8-PeCDF (pentafuran), 1,2,3,4,7,8-HxCDD (hexadioxin), Chromium, Methylmercury, Arsenic (inorganic only), 4,4'-DDD, Aldrin, alpha-Endosulphan, beta-Endosulphan, alpha-Chlordane, Dieldrin, Endosulphan Sulphate, Endrin, Endrin Ketone, alpha-BHC, Heptachlor, Heptachlor Epoxide, Endrin aldehyde, Hexachlorobenzene, gamma-BHC (Lindane), delta-BHC, 4,4'-DDT, Methoxychlor, Mirex, Diethylphosphorodithidate (DEDTP), Dimethylphosphorodithidate (DMDTP), Diethylphosphorothidate (DEPT), Malathion Mono-Carboxylic Acid, Butyl benzyl phthalate, Bis(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate, Di-n-octyl phthalate, PCB-101, PCB-84, PCB-105, PCB-127, PCB-128, PCB-167, PCB-196, PCB-203, PCB-166, PCB-82, PCB-195, PCB-200, PCB-207, PCB-42, PCB-185, PCB-86, PCB-97, PCB-119, PCB-91, PCB-189, PCB-205, PCB-158, PCB-114, PCB-123, PCB-120, PCB-77, PCB-126, PCB-169, PCB-79, PCB-80, PCB-37, PCB-81, PCB-110, PCB-151, PCB-149, PCB-168, PCB-157, PCB-171, PCB-18, PCB-198, PCB-47, PCB-44, PCB-49, PCB-70, PCB-87, PCB-95, PCB-52, PCB-64, PCB-66, PCB-60, PCB-141, PCB-137, PCB-179, PCB-174, PCB-177, PCB-191, PCB-190, PCB-194, PCB-208, PCB-206, PCB-209, PCB-92, 11,14-Methyl Ester Eicosadienoic acid, Methyl ester 9,12-Hexadecadienoic acid, 9-Hexadecenoic acid, n-Tetradecanoic acid, Diisooctyl ester Diphosphoric acid, 1-Tetradecanol, 2-Decanol, 5-Methyl-2-heptanol, 7-methyl-7-Heptadecanol, tetradecanal, 2,4,4-Trimethylhexane, 3-ethyl-2-methylhexane, 2,4,6-trimethyl-Decane, 2,5,6-trimethyl-Decane, 3-bromo-Decane, 6-ethyl-2-methyl-Decane, Hexacosane, n-Docosane, 3-bromo-3-methyl Pentane, Tetratetracontane, 5-propyl-Tridecane, 1,E-11,Z-13-Hexadecatriene, 3,7,11,15-tetramethyl-2-Hexadecene, (Z)-3-Hexadecene, o-(phenylmethyl)-Hydroxylamine, (3-octylundecyl)-Benzene, 3-isopentyl Sydnone, 2-propenylidene-Cyclobutene, 1,5,5-trimethyl-6-(2-propenylidene)-Cyclohexene, 2-hydroxy-Cyclopentadecanone, 1-ethyl-1-methyl-Cyclopentane, Ethylcyclohexane, Didodecyl 3,3-thiodipropionate, 2-ethylhexyl glycidyl ether, O-methyloxime 3,5-dimethyl-2-Cyclohexen-1-one, dihydro-5-(1-methylethyl)-3(2H)-Furanone, 4,6-dimethyl-5-Hepten-2-one, alpha-Toluenesulfonyl chloride, Cetylpyridinium chloride monohydrate, Mono(2-ethylhexyl) adipate, Ethyl Benzene, meta-Xylene, ortho-Xylene
References/Notes
[1] CDC (2005). National Report on Human Exposure to Environmental Chemicals, Centers for Disease Control. http://www.cdc.gov/exposurereport/. (Methylmercury results have been compared to total mercury in CDC biomonitoring.)
[M] Estimated concentration that represents a maximum bound
See results for this participant's group
- EWG/Commonweal Study #1, industrial chemicals and pesticides in adults
- Women of Childbearing Age
- Female
- Adult
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