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:

• Report executive summary

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

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

found in 9 of 9 people, but not quantified

(Z)-9,17-Octadecadienal

• level found: found, but not quantified

found in 5 of 9 people, but not quantified

Octadecanal

• level found: found, but not quantified

found in 8 of 9 people, but not quantified

2,2,3,3-Tetramethylhexane

• level found: found, but not quantified

found in 2 of 9 people, but not quantified

2,4-Dimethylheptane

• level found: found, but not quantified

found in 7 of 9 people, but not quantified

2,6-dimethyl Heptadecane

• level found: found, but not quantified

found in 3 of 9 people, but not quantified

5,6-dimethyl-Decane

• level found: found, but not quantified

found in 9 of 9 people, but not quantified

n-Octacosane

• level found: found, but not quantified

found in 1 of 9 people, but not quantified

(E)-3-Eicosene

• level found: found, but not quantified

found in 8 of 9 people, but not quantified

(E)-3-Octadecene

• level found: found, but not quantified

found in 4 of 9 people, but not quantified

17-Pentatriacontene

• level found: found, but not quantified

found in 2 of 9 people, but not quantified

cis-9-Tricosene

• level found: found, but not quantified

found in 7 of 9 people, but not quantified

1,5-Heptadien-3-yne

• level found: found, but not quantified

found in 5 of 9 people, but not quantified

2,4-bis(1,1-dimethylethyl)-6-methyl-Phenol

• level found: found, but not quantified

found in 1 of 9 people, but not quantified

bis(1-methylpropyl) ester Hexanedioic acid

• level found: found, but not quantified

found in 1 of 9 people, but not quantified

Oleic acid

• level found: found, but not quantified

found in 3 of 9 people, but not quantified

Palmitic acid

• level found: found, but not quantified

found in 9 of 9 people, but not quantified

2,2,4-trimethyl-Oxepane

• level found: found, but not quantified

found in 9 of 9 people, but not quantified

1-methyl-Cyclopentanol

• level found: found, but not quantified

found in 9 of 9 people, but not quantified

(1,2-dimethylbutyl)-Cyclohexane

• level found: found, but not quantified

found in 5 of 9 people, but not quantified

1-hexyl-3-methyl-Cyclopentane

• level found: found, but not quantified

found in 9 of 9 people, but not quantified

1-methyl-2-propyl-Cyclopentane

• level found: found, but not quantified

found in 6 of 9 people, but not quantified

Cyclohexane

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

found in 9 of 9 people, but not quantified

(1,1-dimethylbutyl) Oxirane

• level found: found, but not quantified

found in 7 of 9 people, but not quantified

1-(3-ethyloxiranyl)-Ethanone

• level found: found, but not quantified

found in 9 of 9 people, but not quantified

1-(trimethyloxiranyl)-Ethanone

• level found: found, but not quantified

found in 9 of 9 people, but not quantified

1-Heneicosyl formate

• level found: found, but not quantified

found in 9 of 9 people, but not quantified

2,5-Dimethyltetrahydrofuran

• level found: found, but not quantified

found in 9 of 9 people, but not quantified

2,4-Octanedione

• level found: found, but not quantified

found in 6 of 9 people, but not quantified

2-Hexanone

Industrial solvent; in humans, damages nervous system; in animals, fetal and adult exposure causes significant neurotoxicity.

• level found: found, but not quantified

found in 9 of 9 people, but not quantified

2-Nonanone

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

found in 1 of 9 people, but not quantified

3,4-dimethyl-4-Hexen-2-one

• level found: found, but not quantified

found in 9 of 9 people, but not quantified

3-Methylcyclopentanol

• level found: found, but not quantified

found in 3 of 9 people, but not quantified

Methyl isobutyl carbinol

• level found: found, but not quantified

found in 7 of 9 people, 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

found in 9 of 9 people, but not quantified

Di-n-butyl phthalate

Used in nail polish, cosmetics, and other consumer products; linked to birth defects and male reproductive issues.

• level found: found, but not quantified

found in 9 of 9 people, but not quantified

Diethyl phthalate

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

found in 8 of 9 people, but not quantified

Dimethyl phthalate

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

found in 6 of 9 people, 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

PCB-8

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

PCB-170

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

PCB-180

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

PCB-183

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

PCB-187

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

PCB-138

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

PCB-146

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

PCB-153

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

PCB-156

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

PCB-201

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

PCB-118

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

PCB-99

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

PCB-74

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

PCB-78

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

PCB-28

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

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

4,4'-DDE

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

beta-BHC

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

gamma-Chlordane

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

Pentachlorophenol

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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).

1,2,3,4,7,8-HxCDF (hexafuran)

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

1,2,3,6,7,8-HxCDF (hexafuran)

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

1,2,3,7,8,9-HxCDF (hexafuran)

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

2,3,4,6,7,8-HxCDF (hexafuran)

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

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

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

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.

1,2,3,7,8-PeCDD (pentadioxin)

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

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).

2,3,4,7,8-PeCDF (pentafuran)

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

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.

2,3,7,8-TCDD (tetradioxin)

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

metals

2 of 5 found

Cadmium

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

Lead

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

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

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

Diethylphosphate (DEP)

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

Dimethylphosphate (DMP)

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

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

Malathion Dicarboxylic Acid

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

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