EPA Will Test Chemicals

The Environmental Protection Agency will test 134 chemicals for their potential to disrupt the human endocrine system beginning next year.  The endocrine system regulates growth, metabolism and reproduction.  The new list is on top of an initial group of 67 chemicals the agency ordered tested in October, 2009.  Humans are increasingly exposed to possibly toxic chemicals in everyday items ranging from aircraft to toys. Benzene, long known to be a carcinogen, is on the list.  It is used as an industrial solvent in the manufacturing of drugs, plastics, synthentic rubber and dyes.  Etheylene glycol, used automotive antifreeze, is also listed.  Two pharmaceutical chemicals to be screened include the antibiotic erythromycin, and nitroglycerin used to treat heart patients.