Mum, Clean Up Your Act!

Your house is full of chemicals. They are everywhere—from the paint on your wall, the dye used in your carpet, to air fresheners and more! If you are blissfully unaware of how pervasive toxic chemicals are in your life, let us warn you.

- Manisha Dhingra

WHEN Prajna Mohanty, 29-year-old mum to Shruti, 12 months, was asked to share her experience with household toxins, she said her angel was absolutely healthy and fine. Further, she added that she bought only high-end international products for her baby and did not even apply powder or soap on the little girl’s face. This is the normal mindset among most parents— substances that do not come in direct contact with the tot are not considered a threat. Even Prajna’s doctor had not specifically advised her against using any chemical products around the house. However, when the presence of possible toxins in floor cleaners or wood polish was pointed out to her, Prajna’s expression changed. “Like all very young children, my daughter too licks the floor sometimes. Nothing has happened so far, but this might be a real concern!” she exclaimed.

Dr Ameet Thakar, who has been director of the Genesis Specialty Clinic, Mumbai, for the past 21 years, shares that some doctors themselves are unaware of toxic chemicals in certain household substances. Hence, they do not warn parents about them. Also, the effect of some toxins, such as lead poisoning, is not immediate. Conditions such as asthma may take two-three years to become apparent and decreased bone and muscle growth, poor muscle coordination, damage to the nervous system or kidneys, as well as hearing, speech and language problems will take even longer to show up. This is why these things are not treated as a matter of prime concern, at least in India. However, these threats are just as real as those caused as an effect of smoking. A chain-smoker does not develop cancer within a day or two; it takes time. It is a long-term effect and a very hazardous one at that.

‘LEAD’ING THE WAY