Study reveals office workers are exposed to banned toxins

The Environment Working Group (EWG), a non-profit organization empowering the public with health information, explains PBDEs can cause "thyroid hormone imbalance, fatigue, depression, anxiety, unexplained weight gain, hair loss and low libido." In prior studies, PBDEs have also been linked to infertility.

While you likely can't avoid PBDEs altogether, researchers said the best way to cut your exposure is to wash your hands often with soap and water. In the study, workers who reported washing their hands four or more times per day tended to have lower levels of PBDEs on their hands than those who washed their hands less often. They also had, on average, three times lower concentrations of PBDEs in their blood.

Other ways to limit exposure to PBDE? The key is to avoid bringing home products that have "brominated fire retardants" or "deca." Deca was often used in making television screens but most brands have discontinued using deca in their new products. Ikea, along with many other companies, is actively promoting PBDE-free furniture. It's important to be informed about PBDE-free options when shopping, as there are naturally flame retardant fibers that are now readily accessible.

Dust regularly with a damp cloth, and a vacuum with a hepa filter is ideal for removing PBDE dust in the air.

According to Health Canada, PBDEs are also found in some fatty meats, fish, and dairy products. PollutioninPeople.org, a project of the Toxic-Free Legacy Coalition, says avoid farmed fish, especially farmed salmon from the UK or US, and reduce animal fats from your diet.

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