A recent investigation has revealed the presence of potentially harmful chemicals in several brands of adhesive bandages, including well-known names like Band-Aids and Curad, alongside store brands from major retailers CVS, Wal-Mart, and Target. This discovery came from tests conducted by an independent laboratory, which detected organic fluorine, an indicator of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), commonly referred to as “forever chemicals,” both in the adhesive and absorbent parts of the bandages.
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According to PEOPLE, the findings were published on the Mamavation blog, a platform focused on advocating for environmental health, which collaborated with Environmental Health Sciences to conduct the testing in a lab certified by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). PFAS are a collection of chemical compounds utilized in the manufacture of fluoropolymer coatings and other products that are resistant to heat, oil, stains, grease, and water. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states these substances are particularly concerning because they do not degrade in the environment, allowing them to seep through soil and contaminate water sources.
Although there hasn’t been any reported adverse health effects from PFAS in bandages, the potential implications for health are significant.Research has shown that exposure to high levels of PFAS may lead to several health issues. These include effects on growth and development, reproductive health, thyroid function, and the immune system, in addition to liver damage. The Environmental Protection Agency further notes the potential for PFAS exposure to reduce fertility, cause developmental delays in children, increase cancer risks, and weaken the immune system.
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The presence of PFAS in bandages is particularly alarming given their application directly to open wounds, potentially exposing individuals to these chemicals. Linda S. Birnbaum, a renowned environmental health scientist and former director of the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences and National Toxicology Program, emphasized the unnecessary risk posed by PFAS in wound care products. She advocates for the removal of PFAS from these products to safeguard public health, suggesting that the industry should shift towards PFAS-free materials.
PEOPLE also reported that CVS was the only company to comment on the report at the time, stated through a representative that their store brand products aim to ensure quality, safety, efficacy, regulatory compliance, and customer satisfaction:
“CVS Pharmacy’s store brands are designed to maximize quality and safety, work as intended, comply with regulations, and satisfy customers,”
