Medical Devices such as IVs

Medical Devices such as IVs

Chemicals of concern: Mercury, bisphenol A (BPA), DEHP, PVC

Affected individuals: Patients (DEHP), production workers, disposal workers (mercury), community members living in production, use and disposal sites.

Harmful effects: 

• Mercury is a potent neurotoxin that can harm the brain, spinal cord, kidneys and liver. 
• Mercury can contaminate the food web.
• PVC manufacture and incineration generates dioxins, chlorinated organochlorines
• DEHP, an additive to PVC, can damage the liver, kidneys, lungs and reproductive system, particularly developing testes, according to animal studies.
• In animal studies, BPA is associated with alteration in breast, prostate, and brain development, changes in behavior, and susceptibility to breast and prostate cancer. 
• Human studies find a direct association with risk of diabetes and heart disease.

Alternatives: Alternatives are available for all mercury products used in the healthcare setting. PVC-free and DEHP-free alternatives are available for many uses, with some geographic restrictions.