Volatile Organic Compounds in Disposable Diapers and Baby Wipes in the US: A Survey of Products and Health Risks.

Many thousands of diapers are worn by young children and the elderly, who have thin and sensitive skin that is highly vulnerable to chemicals, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that may be ingredients of these products or present as inadvertent or residual components. The levels and potential health risks of VOCs in diapers have not been reported previously. In this study, we collected 31 disposable hygiene products in the US market based on market share and analyzed 98 target VOCs using purge and trap sampling and thermal desorption/gas chromatography/mass spectrometer analysis.

Volatile organic compounds in feminine hygiene products sold in the US market: A survey of products and health risks.

Feminine hygiene products (FHPs) are used on highly permeable and sensitive vaginal and vulvar tissues by many women. These products contain a variety of chemicals, and few regulations require disclosure of their ingredients. The objectives of this study are to identify volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that may be present in these products and to evaluate the potential for exposure and health risk associated with product use.

Occupational exposure and health risks of volatile organic compounds of hotel housekeepers: Field measurements of exposure and health risks.

Hotel housekeepers represent a large, low-income, predominantly minority, and high-risk workforce. Little is known about their exposure to chemicals, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs). This study evaluates VOC exposures of housekeepers, sources and factors affecting VOC levels, and provides preliminary estimates of VOC-related health risks.