about this participant:

Michael Lerner, an educator from Bolinas, CA, participated in the 2003 biomonitoring investigation entitled "EWG/Commonweal Study #1, industrial chemicals and pesticides in adults." He gave blood and urine for the study at age 59.

Michael Lerner is president and founder of Commonweal, a health and environmental research institute in Marin County, California. He has worked for thirty years with at-risk children, people with cancer, and environmental health initiatives. He is married to Sharyle Patton, who was also a participant in the Body Burden Study.

Related links:

• Report executive summary

Location:

Bolinas, CA

Participant's groups:

Patton Lerner Family, Male, Commonweal, 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)	61
Brain and nervous system	48
Birth defects and developmental delays	15
Reproduction and fertility	3
Endocrine system	2
Gastrointestinal (including liver)	1
Chronic effects, general	1

Participant: Michael Lerner
Found 88.616666666667-103 of 214 tested chemicals

Michael Lerner's blood and urine contained 88.616666666667-103 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.

• Mercury exposure above the federal government's safe level
• This participant's samples show the highest levels of PCB-8, PCB-191, PCB-196, PCB-201, PCB-47, Arsenic (inorganic only), Methylmercury compared to all others in EWG studies
• This participant's samples show above average levels of PCB-18, 1,2,3,7,8,9-HxCDF (hexafuran), PCB-28 and Malathion Mono-Carboxylic Acid compared to all others in EWG studies

Summary of chemicals found in Michael Lerner

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
Alkylphenols	found, not quantified	Endocrine system	Cosmetics, detergents, pesticides, paints, carpet and dry cleaning
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)	moderate	Brain and nervous system, Immune system (including sensitization and allergies)	Dietary sources, fatty meat, dairy and fish
Organochlorine Pesticides (OCs)	low	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)	low	Brain and nervous system	Contaminated food and drinking water
Lead	high		Lead-based paint in older homes, household dust, vinyl products, tap water
Arsenic (inorganic only)	high		Pressure-treated (outdoor) wood, contaminated drinking water
Methylmercury	high		Dietary sources, particularly seafood

Detailed report by chemical (return to summary)

volatile and semivolatile organic compounds (vocs and svocs)

30 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

2,4-Dimethylheptane

• level found: found, but not quantified

found in 7 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

6-ethyl-2-methyl-Decane

• level found: found, but not quantified

found in 4 of 9 people, but not quantified

Hexacosane

• level found: found, but not quantified

found in 1 of 9 people, but not quantified

n-Docosane

• level found: found, but not quantified

found in 3 of 9 people, but not quantified

Tetratetracontane

• 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

(Z)-3-Hexadecene

• level found: found, but not quantified

found in 8 of 9 people, but not quantified

3,7,11,15-tetramethyl-2-Hexadecene

• level found: found, but not quantified

found in 4 of 9 people, but not quantified

cis-9-Tricosene

• level found: found, but not quantified

found in 7 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-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

2-propenylidene-Cyclobutene

• level found: found, but not quantified

found in 3 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

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

• level found: found, but not quantified

found in 9 of 9 people, but not quantified

dihydro-5-(1-methylethyl)-3(2H)-Furanone

• level found: found, but not quantified

found in 1 of 9 people, but not quantified

1-Tetradecanol

• level found: found, but not quantified

found in 1 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

alkylphenols

1 of 1 found

Surfactants in cosmetics, paints, detergents. Toxic to wildlife. May harm hormone system.

• cumulative level found: found, but not quantified

found in 3 of 9 people, but not quantified

4-tert-Octylphenol

Widely used surfactants in commercial products; highly toxic to aquatic organisms, and endocrine disruptors in human and animals.

• level found: found, but not quantified

found in 3 of 9 people, but not quantified

polychlorinated biphenyls (pcbs)

31.616666666667-46 of 77 found

Banned industrial insulators and lubricants. Cause cancer and nervous system problems.

• cumulative level found: 229 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (86th %ile)
• Moderate vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (74th %ile) (comparison based on congeners tested by CDC)

2.95	ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum	600

PCB-209

In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

• level found: 3.84 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum [M]
• High vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (86th %ile)

	ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum	19.4

PCB-8

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
• High vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (99th %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: 18.4 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (89th %ile)
• High vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (84th %ile)

0.0371	ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum	34.3

PCB-171

In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

• level found: 3.55 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (98th %ile)

	ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum	3.67

PCB-174

In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

• level found: 2.22 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (98th %ile)

	ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum	3.08

PCB-177

In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

• level found: 6.04 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum [M]
• High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (95th %ile)
• High vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (91st %ile)

	ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum	6.74

PCB-179

In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

• level found: 2.73 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (95th %ile)

	ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum	3.65

PCB-180

In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

• level found: 4.96 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (60th %ile)
• Moderate vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (26th %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: 7.85 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (95th %ile)
• High vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (93rd %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: 21 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (89th %ile)
• High vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (91st %ile)

0.0607	ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum	36.4

PCB-190

In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

• level found: 3.23 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (92nd %ile)

	ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum	5.15

PCB-191

In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

• level found: 8.96 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (99th %ile)

	ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum	8.96

PCB-137

In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

• level found: 2.07 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (83rd %ile)

	ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum	3.95

PCB-138

In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

• level found: 32.2 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (83rd %ile)
• High vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (79th %ile)

0.297	ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum	72.6

PCB-141

In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

• level found: 1.53 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (95th %ile)

	ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum	1.81

PCB-146

In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

• level found: 5.45 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (86th %ile)
• Moderate vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (71st %ile)

0.0243	ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum	14

PCB-149

In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

• level found: 6.32 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (95th %ile)
• High vs 2,547 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (99th %ile)

	ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum	9.63

PCB-151

In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

• level found: 3.23 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (95th %ile)
• Moderate vs 2,547 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (74th %ile)

	ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum	4.56

PCB-153

In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

• level found: 47.2 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (83rd %ile)
• High vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (77th %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: 8.19 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (86th %ile)
• High vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (81st %ile)

	ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum	14.6

PCB-157

In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

• level found: 2.06 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (78th %ile)
• Moderate vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (26th %ile)

	ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum	14.3

PCB-168

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
• Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (43rd %ile)

	ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum	96.5

PCB-206

In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

• level found: 3.92 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (86th %ile)

	ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum	29

PCB-208

In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

• level found: 1.49 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (86th %ile)

	ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum	13.7

PCB-194

In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

• level found: 13.4 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (92nd %ile)
• High vs 2,547 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (84th %ile)

	ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum	34

PCB-196 & PCB-203 [2]

• level found: 12.3 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (99th %ile)
• High vs 2,547 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (87th %ile)

	ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum	12.3

PCB-198

In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

• level found: 15.6 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (92nd %ile)

	ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum	40

PCB-201

In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

• level found: 17.4 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (99th %ile)
• High vs 2,547 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (90th %ile)

	ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum	17.4

PCB-101 & PCB-84 [2]

• level found: 8.67 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (95th %ile)
• High vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (78th %ile)

	ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum	13.1

PCB-110

In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

• level found: 2.87 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (95th %ile)
• Moderate vs 2,547 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (53rd %ile)

	ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum	3.39

PCB-118

In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

• level found: 9.28 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• Moderate vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (72nd %ile)
• Moderate vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (70th %ile)

0.212	ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum	30.8

PCB-87

In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

• level found: 1.93 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (95th %ile)
• High vs 2,547 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (93rd %ile)

	ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum	2.23

PCB-95

In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

• level found: 5.94 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (95th %ile)

	ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum	8.85

PCB-99

In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

• level found: 8.11 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (80th %ile)
• High vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (79th %ile)

0.0828	ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum	14.9

PCB-44

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
• High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (95th %ile)

	ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum	3.18

PCB-47

In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

• level found: 1.86 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (99th %ile)

	ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum	1.86

PCB-52

In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

• level found: 3.03 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (95th %ile)
• Moderate vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (51st %ile)

	ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum	4.47

PCB-64

In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

• level found: 1.45 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (98th %ile)

	ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum	1.68

PCB-66

In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

• level found: 2.61 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (92nd %ile)
• Low vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (19th %ile)

	ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum	3.46

PCB-70

In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

• level found: 2.94 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (80th %ile)

	ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum	23.4

PCB-74

In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

• level found: 8.1 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (83rd %ile)
• Moderate vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (71st %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: 2.73 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• High vs 35 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (95th %ile)

	ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum	2.83

PCB-18

In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

• level found: 3.38 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• High vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (98th %ile)

	ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum	3.88

PCB-28

In polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) family of chemicals - banned industrial insulators and lubricants; cause cancer and nervous system problems.

• level found: 4.22 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• High vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (92nd %ile)
• Moderate vs 2,274 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (61st %ile)

	ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum	5.81

organochlorine pesticides (ocs)

3 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: 0.615 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• Low vs 27 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (4th %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: 0.474 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• Moderate vs 27 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (34th %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: 0.0512 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• Low vs 27 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (19th %ile)

	ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum	37.1

Hexachlorobenzene

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: 0.0899 ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• Moderate vs 27 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (34th %ile)
• Low vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (20th %ile)

	ng/g (lipid weight) in blood serum	24.4

chlorinated dioxins & furans

15 of 17 found

Pollutants from PVC production, industrial bleaching, and incineration. Cause cancer and may harm hormone system.

• cumulative level found: 292 pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• Moderate vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (62nd %ile)
• Moderate vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (67th %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: 33.3 pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• Moderate vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (62nd %ile)
• Moderate vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (66th %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: 5.39 pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• Moderate vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (53rd %ile)
• Moderate vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (61st %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: 1.21 pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum [M]
• High vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (86th %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.

1,2,3,4,7,8-HxCDD (hexadioxin)

In dioxin family of chemicals - pollutants from PVC production, industrial bleaching, incineration; cause cancer, may harm hormone system.

• level found: 4.14 pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum [M]
• High vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (80th %ile)
• High vs 2,547 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (79th %ile)

	pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum	11.4

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: 27.3 pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• Moderate vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (65th %ile)
• Moderate vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (73rd %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: 3.19 pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum [M]
• Moderate vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (42nd %ile)
• Moderate vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (48th %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: 3.31 pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum [M]
• Moderate vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (62nd %ile)
• Moderate vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (55th %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: 3.25 pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• Moderate vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (62nd %ile)
• Moderate vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (60th %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: 1.09 pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum [M]
• High vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (95th %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: 2.55 pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• High vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (86th %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: 178 pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• Moderate vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (62nd %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: 8.08 pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum [M]
• High vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (80th %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: 8.73 pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum [M]
• High vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (80th %ile)
• High vs 4,821 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (92nd %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: 7.01 pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum
• Moderate vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (74th %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: 5 pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum [M]
• High vs 34 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (89th %ile)

	pg/g (lipid weight) in blood serum	7.12

metals

3 of 5 found

Arsenic (inorganic only)

Known human carcinogen in pressure-treated wood and food. Common tap water pollutant.

• level found: 21 ppb in urine
• High vs 9 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (99th %ile)

	ppb in urine	21

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: 3.18 ug/dL (wet weight) in whole blood
• High vs 71 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (85th %ile)
• High vs 8,373 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (87th %ile)

0.222	ug/dL (wet weight) in whole blood	4.7

Methylmercury

Forms from mercury, a pollutant from coal-fired power plants and other sources. Methylmercury accumulates in seafood and harms brain development and function.

• level found: 25.6 ug/L (wet weight) in whole blood
• High vs 88 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (99th %ile)
• High vs 8,373 tested in CDC biomonitoring [1] (99th %ile)

	ug/L (wet weight) in whole blood	25.9

organophosphate pesticide metabolites (ops)

2 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: 4 ppb in urine
• Low vs 9 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (12th %ile)

4	ppb in urine	70.4

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: 2 ppb in urine
• Moderate vs 9 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (56th %ile)

	ppb in urine	8

Malathion Mono-Carboxylic 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: 2 ppb in urine
• High vs 9 tested in EWG/Commonweal studies (89th %ile)

	ppb in urine	4

Chemicals not found in Michael Lerner

111 chemicals

2,3,7,8-TCDF (tetrafuran), 1,2,3,7,8-PeCDF (pentafuran), Chromium, Cadmium, 4,4'-DDD, Aldrin, alpha-Endosulphan, beta-Endosulphan, alpha-Chlordane, Dieldrin, Endosulphan Sulphate, Endrin, Endrin Ketone, alpha-BHC, Heptachlor, Heptachlor Epoxide, Endrin aldehyde, gamma-BHC (Lindane), delta-BHC, gamma-Chlordane, 4,4'-DDT, Methoxychlor, Mirex, Pentachlorophenol, Diethylphosphorodithidate (DEDTP), Dimethylphosphorodithidate (DMDTP), Dimethylphosphate (DMP), Dimethylphosphorothidate (DMPT), Diethylphosphate (DEP), Diethylphosphorothidate (DEPT), Chlorpyrifos metabolite (3,5,6-TCP), Butyl benzyl phthalate, Bis(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate, Di-n-octyl phthalate, PCB-105, PCB-127, PCB-128, PCB-167, 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-49, PCB-60, PCB-92, 11,14-Methyl Ester Eicosadienoic acid, Methyl ester 9,12-Hexadecadienoic acid, 9-Hexadecenoic acid, bis(1-methylpropyl) ester Hexanedioic acid, n-Tetradecanoic acid, Oleic acid, Diisooctyl ester Diphosphoric acid, 2-Decanol, 3-Methylcyclopentanol, 5-Methyl-2-heptanol, 7-methyl-7-Heptadecanol, tetradecanal, 2,2,3,3-Tetramethylhexane, 2,4,4-Trimethylhexane, 3-ethyl-2-methylhexane, 2,4,6-trimethyl-Decane, 2,5,6-trimethyl-Decane, 3-bromo-Decane, 2,6-dimethyl Heptadecane, n-Octacosane, 3-bromo-3-methyl Pentane, 5-propyl-Tridecane, 1,E-11,Z-13-Hexadecatriene, 17-Pentatriacontene, (E)-3-Octadecene, 1,5-Heptadien-3-yne, o-(phenylmethyl)-Hydroxylamine, (3-octylundecyl)-Benzene, 2,4-bis(1,1-dimethylethyl)-6-methyl-Phenol, 3-isopentyl Sydnone, (1,2-dimethylbutyl)-Cyclohexane, 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, 2-Nonanone, 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.)

[2] The chemicals co-eluted in the laboratory analysis.

[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
• Patton Lerner Family
• Male
• Commonweal
• Adult