apocalyptic fact of the day

according to health canada the breast milk of Canadian women contains the second-highest levels in the world of a compound used as a flame retardant in computer casings and household furniture. apparently women in canada have levels about five to 10 times those in other advanced industrial countries. we of course are second to the united states (where the rates are double those in canada). results from exposure to this chemical (polybrominated diphenyl ethers, or PBDEs) include learning difficulties, memory impairment and alterations in thyroid hormone levels.

it’s ok though because the government says that exposure has not yet reached harmful levels. phew! that’s a relief