Toxic Chemicals Hiding in our Daily Lives

A new study published on January 20, 2012 has revealed that exposure to the organic solvent tetrachloroethylene (PCE) during pregnancy and early childhood may increase your risk of developing diseases such as bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and schizophrenia.

You might think the study has nothing to do with you; after all, how often is the average person exposed to PCE? But consider this: The study was based on a group of individuals in Cape Cod, Massachusetts whose water supply was unknowingly contaminated with PCE for a period of almost 30 years, beginning in the 1960s, due to the use of PCE in water pipe installation. While thousands of people in Cape Cod were unknowingly exposed to the dangerous chemical, many other individuals knowingly deal with PCE on a daily basis, as subjection to the chemical is a normal part of their jobs. PCE is not only commonly used in industrial workplaces; it is also one of the chemicals used to dry clean clothing. The recent study also revealed that there is some evidence that children of dry cleaners have higher instances of psychiatric disorders than the average population. This could very well be symptomatic of their more frequent exposure to the PCE chemical.

Toxic chemicals are prevalent in so many places that it is easy to be exposed to a harmful substance without even being aware of it. This is particularly dangerous because it can sometimes lead to extended periods of exposure lasting for months or even years. Whether encountered on the job or in your water supply, if you have been injured due to exposure to a harmful substance like PCE, you need to seek representation with an experienced Houston personal injury attorney. At Arnold & Itkin, we have recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for sick and injured clients, and we can help you as well. Contact a Houston personal injury lawyer from our firm today and schedule a free consultation to discuss your options after an accident has left you injured.