"Toxic Economy: Common Chemicals Cost US Billions Every Year"

"Researchers estimate the United States economy takes a $340 billion hit annually as endocrine-disrupting compounds lower IQs, increase behavior problems and exacerbate health woes like obesity and diabetes."

"Exposure to chemicals in pesticides, toys, makeup, food packaging and detergents costs the U.S. more than $340 billion annually due to health care costs and lost wages, according to a new analysis.

The chemicals, known as endocrine disruptors, impact how human hormones function and have been linked to a variety of health problems such as impaired brain development, lower IQs, behavior problems, infertility, birth defects, obesity and diabetes.

The estimated economic toll is more than 2 percent of the nation’s gross domestic product (GDP).

The findings, researchers say, 'document the urgent public threat posed by endocrine disrupting chemicals.'"

Brian Bienkowski reports for Environmental Health News October 17, 2016.