CORVALLIS -- A silicone wristband developed at Oregon State University absorbs day-to-day toxins, creating a readout of their levels.
Eventually, these bracelets may help us link possible health effects to chemicals in our environment, Kim Anderson, a professor in OSU's College of Agricultural Sciences said in a prepared statement.
Roofers who wore the bands were exposed to toxins listed on the Environmental Protection Agency's priority list. Thirty volunteers who wore the wristbands for a month were exposed to about 50 chemicals, including perfumes, caffeine and pesticides, the university reported.
About 1,200 chemicals can be singled out with the screening.
The bracelets were also being used in studies of pregnant women in New York City and farmers in West Africa.
