Popular sanitary napkins sold in India contain large amounts of harmful chemicals.
Sanitary Napkins: Popular sanitary napkins sold in India contain high levels of harmful chemicals, says a study published in a report titled ‘Menstrual Waste 2022’. A study conducted by a Delhi-based NGO found phthalates in 10 samples of sanitary napkins available in the market. Exposure to phthalates has been linked to disorders of the heart and reproductive system, diabetes and cancer, among others.
Toxics Link, the NGO that conducted the study, found the presence of phthalates and volatile organic compounds in a total of 10 samples, six inorganic and four organic sanitary pads available in the market.
Exposure to phthalates has been linked to a variety of health concerns, including endocrine disruption, effects on the heart and reproductive systems, diabetes, some cancers, and birth defects.
(with agency inputs)
