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Chemicals

Some chemicals have been recognized or are suspected to cause cancer, harm the immune system, or lead to developmental, reproductive, cardiovascular or blood, endocrine, gastrointestinal or liver, kidney, musculoskeletal, respiratory, skin or sense organ toxicity, and neurotoxicity.

To date, it has been difficult if not impossible to easily obtain information about the types of health hazards posed by toxic chemicals. While some regulatory agencies have generated lists of carcinogens and developmental and reproductive toxicants, these are often difficult to find and link to sources of information about chemical release or exposure. For other important health effects - such as neurotoxicity or endocrine disruption - the lack of information is even more serious.

At the EU level, one of the most important pieces of legislation relating to chemicals and human health to have been developed in recent years is REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation of CHemicals).

Through the Chemicals Health Monitor project, HEAL aims to improve public health by ensuring that key scientific evidence on the links between chemicals and ill-health are translated into policy as quickly as possible. We work to highlight the compelling scientific basis for added controls over certain chemicals; and encourage EU policies that are precautionary and participatory, especially with regard to the implementation of REACH, and the substitution of hazardous chemicals.