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An investigation has uncovered the presence of toxic metals in tampons sold globally, raising alarms about potential health risks for users.

Conducted across New York, Athens, and London, tests on 30 tampon products revealed alarming levels of arsenic, chromium, and lead in some samples. All 16 metals tested were detected in at least one tampon, highlighting widespread exposure risks.

Lead exposure, known to impair brain development, and other metals linked to life-threatening blood clotting and increased cancer risks were among the findings. U.S. researchers emphasized that tampons could be a significant source of metal exposure for women, showing a need for heightened awareness and further investigation.

Despite these findings, experts cautioned against immediate panic, emphasizing the need for additional research to determine the potential health implications. The study refrained from naming specific brands involved but noted that the products are available in both the U.S. and EU markets.

Dr. Jenni Shearston of the University of California, Berkeley, noted the scarcity of research on chemical concentrations in tampons, highlighting this study as a pioneering effort in measuring metals in menstrual products. She expressed concern over the presence of toxic metals like arsenic and lead, urging for enhanced scrutiny and possible regulatory measures.

Professor Kathrin Schilling from Columbia University underscored the risk posed by metal exposure through menstrual products, citing the vagina's sensitive tissue as potentially facilitating absorption into the body. With a significant percentage of menstruating women using tampons regularly, the implications of these findings are far-reaching.

"Although toxic metals are ubiquitous and we are exposed to low levels at any given time, our study clearly shows that metals are also present in menstrual products, and that women might be at higher risk for exposure using these products," Schilling said, per the Daily Mail.

The study identified arsenic, cadmium, chromium, lead, and other metals across all samples tested, with lead showing the highest mean concentration at 120 nanograms per gram. Researchers stressed that even trace amounts of lead can pose health risks, warranting careful consideration by regulatory bodies and manufacturers.

While no specific tampon type showed consistently lower metal levels, organic variants exhibited higher arsenic levels compared to non-organic counterparts, which showed elevated lead concentrations.

Researchers suggested that metal contamination could originate from various sources, including cotton plants absorbing metals from soil or manufacturing processes introducing contaminants. They called for mandatory testing and improved product labeling to ensure consumer safety.

"I really hope that manufacturers are required to test their products for metals, especially for toxic metals," Shearston said. "It would be exciting to see the public call for this, or to ask for better labelling on tampons and other menstrual products."

Despite assurances that metals may not leach into menstrual blood, experts advise continued vigilance and advocacy for safer product standards. This investigation follows recent concerns over other chemicals in menstrual products, indicating a growing need for comprehensive regulatory oversight.