2007 Oceans to Stars Lecture Series

Hidden Health Hazards:
Everyday Exposures to Toxic Chemicals

Anne C. Steinemann, PhD
Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering,
Professor of Public Affairs, and
Director of The Water Center
at the University of Washington

May 10, 2007


Download an audio recording of the talk (13.5 MB mp3)


Introduction

Most of our exposure to pollutants occurs from sources that are close to us and within our control, such as consumer products that we use within our homes, workplaces, schools, and other indoor environments. For instance, fragrances in products emit toxic volatile organic compounds that have been linked to a range of adverse health effects such as headaches, seizures, and breathing difficulties. Paradoxically, these and many other toxic chemicals in products are not tested, regulated, or listed on product labels, as they are under "trade secrets" protection. Why are these products allowed to be sold, and why do consumers lack information on the risks? Professor Steinemann will explore this problem, revealing gaps among science, regulatory policy, public awareness, and health. Her recent research has identified numerous toxic yet unlisted chemicals in everyday consumer products such as air fresheners, dryer sheets, baby shampoo, and hand sanitizers. She will conclude with solutions, such as simple and cost-effective actions that can reduce risks from pollutants to both human and environmental health.


About the speaker

Anne C. Steinemann, received her Ph.D. in Civil and Environmental Engineering from Stanford University. Dr. Steinemann specializes in environmental impact assessment and regulatory policy, water resources management, hazard prediction and mitigation, and health effects of pollutants, combining expertise in engineering, economics, policy, and public health. She received the National Science Foundation CAREER Award, in addition to university and national teaching awards. Dr. Steinemann has investigated more than 100 sick buildings to identify pollutant sources, reduce exposures, and improve occupants' health. She conducted the first national epidemiological study of chemical sensitivity, its causes and symptoms related to exposures, and its overlaps with asthma. Dr. Steinemann has directed more than $8 million of funded research, and serves as adviser to agencies and industries on environmental issues. Among her recent publications are the textbooks Microeconomics for Public Decisions (South-Western, 2005) and Exposure Analysis
 (CRC Press, 2006). View her full bio.

See a reading list (.pdf file) of books relevant to this series.

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