A study by Stapleton et al, published in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives, looked at household exposure to Polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in toddlers.
PBDEs are flame retardant chemicals that have been used to reduce the flammability of polymers and resins found in commercial products such as furniture, electronics (e.g., TVs, cell phones, business equipment), and electrical wiring and in some textile applications. PBDE’s are persistent, bioaccumulative, and endocrine-disrupting chemicals.
The researchers used handwipes to estimate exposure to PBDEs in house dust, and found these toxicants in all toddler blood samples taken. Children are likely exposed to PBDEs from many sources. Exposure modeling suggests that most exposures occur from diet, inhalation, and contact with contaminated house dust.