CW Vol 2. Ed. 7 - Toxic Touch: The Hidden Dangers of Receipts!
The Sneaky Danger of Register Receipts! Research shows that BPA can be absorbed within seconds through the skin, making it nearly impossible to avoid exposure without precautions.
And here’s a fact that might surprise you—the average person unknowingly consumes about 5 grams of plastic every week, equivalent to eating a credit card! If we aren’t careful, everyday interactions with plastics, including thermal receipts, could have long-term consequences for our health.
What’s the Risk? Many receipts are coated with BPA or BPS—chemicals used to develop the printed text but known for their harmful effects on human health. These endocrine disruptors can interfere with the body's hormonal system, leading to serious health consequences, including:
Hormonal imbalances – BPA and BPS mimic estrogen in the body, disrupting natural hormone levels, which can affect everything from mood to metabolism.
Increased risk of certain cancers – Long-term exposure to these chemicals has been linked to higher risks of breast and prostate cancers.
Reproductive health concerns – Studies show that BPA exposure can reduce fertility in both men and women, affecting egg quality, sperm count, and overall reproductive function.
Metabolic issues and obesity – BPA has been connected to insulin resistance, leading to a higher risk of Type 2 diabetes and obesity.
Neurological effects – There is growing evidence that exposure to BPA may be associated with developmental and behavioral problems, particularly in children and infants.
Cardiovascular problems – Some research suggests BPA exposure may increase blood pressure and the risk of heart disease.
How to Dodge the Risk: Here’s how to keep those sneaky chemicals at bay -
Go digital: Whenever possible, say “No thanks” to paper and opt for e-receipts.
Wash those hands: If you do handle receipts, wash up before eating or touching your face.
Use barriers: Sorting receipts often? Consider gloves or tongs—yes, tongs!
Store wisely: Keep receipts in a separate bag or envelope, not directly in your wallet or pockets. Spread the word: Share this information with your family and friends.
Wash Your Hands - Especially Before Handling Food and Eating!
Even brief handling of receipts can allow these chemicals to be absorbed through the skin, especially if your hands are wet or oily. Over time, this buildup of microplastics and harmful chemicals can have lasting consequences on our bodies.
Given the frequent touching of industrial chemicals in our industry, it’s always a good practice to wash your hands before eating or handling food—not just after handling receipts. Being mindful of what you put into your body is one of the simplest ways to protect your health, and clean hands are an easy first step.
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2/12/2025
CW Vol 2. Ed. 6 - Keep Your Distance: How Far Should Your Phone Be from Your Head
What’s the Buzz About EMFs: Cell phones emit radiofrequency (RF) radiation, a type of non-ionizing radiation. While it doesn’t directly damage DNA like X-rays, studies suggest long-term, excessive exposure may have health risks, including an increased chance of brain tumors such as gliomas and acoustic neuromas.
When you use a cell phone, RF energy is absorbed by tissues closest to the phone, primarily the head and torso. The amount of exposure depends on factors like the phone's technology, how close the phone is to your body, and the duration of use.
What Are the Safe Usage Guidelines?: Did you know that smartphone manufacturers suggest keeping some distance between your phone and your body?
iPhone – At least 5mm (0.2 inches) from your body.
Samsung – At least 1.5 cm (0.6 inches) from your body.
LG – At least 1.0 cm (0.39 inches) from your body.
The FCC (Federal Communications Commission) limits RF exposure to 1.6 watts per kilogram (W/kg), so following manufacturer guidelines ensures you stay within safe exposure levels.
How Can You Protect Yourself?: The good news is, there are easy, practical ways to keep exposure in check without ditching your phone! Here’s how:
✅ Use Speaker Mode or a Wired Headset – Keep your phone away from your head during calls.
✅ Text More, Talk Less – Fewer direct phone calls = less exposure!
✅ Don’t Carry Your Phone in a Pocket or Your Bra! – Keep it in a bag or use a holster when possible.
✅ Don’t Sleep with Your Phone Next to Your Head – Switch it to airplane mode when you are sleeping.
✅ Use Airplane Mode When Possible – Less radiation when you don’t need connectivity.
✅ Limit Call Duration – Shorter conversations = safer habits!
Beware! When your phone has fewer bars and low signal strength, it works harder to maintain a connection, increasing RF radiation. Holding your phone close to your ear during these times can further elevate exposure levels. To reduce risk, try using speaker mode or a wired headset when signal strength is weak.
👶 Children Are More at Risk! Due to their thinner skulls and developing brains, children can absorb more RF radiation than adults, so limit their phone use and exposure to wireless video games!
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2/5/2025