MANILA -- Excessive levels of lead were detected by an environmental group yesterday in about 23 common rain protection items located in various shopping malls in Manila.

According to environmental group, EcoWaste Coalition, lead is a brain toxicant, and the amount of lead found in the rain gear measured up to 15,500 parts per million (ppm), and cadmium up to 717 ppm, in 70 percent of the items.

Among the rain items spotted to contain lead included rain boots, coats and umbrellas. High levels of lead may pose chemical risks to health, the group said.

Meanwhile, the following malls: 11/88 Shopping Mall, 168 Shopping Mall, 999 Shopping Mall and the Tutuban Prime Block Mall were said to be selling these products.

Products sold included 25 raincoats, five umbrellas and three pairs of rain boots which the group bought on June 1 for P50 – P250 each from 10 discount shops.

EcoWaste Coalition acting national coordinator, Aileen Lucero said in a statement that their group’s investigation showed that these products contain poison chemicals that may leach or disperse into the surroundings over time.

“Parents need to pay attention to this health threat as children’s developing bodies are very vulnerable to chemical hazards,” Lucero said.

She explained that chemicals are inevitably discharged into the environment with the usual wear and tear and disposal of products, which are then absorbed into a child’s body via ingestion, inhalation or skin absorption.

“Their hand to mouth behavior and their habit of sitting on the ground or the floor can result to greater childhood exposure to various toxins,” she added.

To prevent toxic exposure, the group urged consumers to read product labels carefully and avoid PVC materials known for their strong chemical odor as they contain numerous toxic additives like cadmium and lead used as pigments or stabilizers.

Parents were also advised to regularly check the condition of the products used by their kids for any signs of wear and tear, and to frequently remind kids to wash their hands thoroughly, especially before snacks or meals.*PNA

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