Some tampons found to contain LEAD and other toxic metals that could be absorbed into the body, alarming study suggests

Some tampons found to contain LEAD and other toxic metals that could be absorbed into the body, alarming study suggests READ MORE: Tattoos, no matter how big, could be linked to tumours years later By Emily Stearn, Health Reporter For Mailonline Published: 15:30, 4 July 2024 | Updated: 15:51, 4 July 2024 e-mail 1 View comments Toxic metals could be lurking in tampons sold in the UK, an alarming investigation revealed today. Tests on 30 products purchased in New York, Athens and London found some contained dangerous levels of arsenic, chromium and even lead. And all 16 metals tested were detected in at least one tampon.

Exposure to lead can impair brain development, whist other metals can trigger life-threatening blood clotting and raise the risk of some cancers. US researchers claimed the probe showed tampons were 'a potential source of metal exposure' for women. Tests on 30 products purchased in New York, Athens and London found some contained levels of arsenic, chromium and even lead.

And all 16 metals tested were detected in at least one tampon. Exposure to lead can impair brain development, while other metals can trigger blood clotting and even raise the risk of some cancers However, experts urged women not to panic and cautioned more research was required to discover of there is any danger to users. While some of the products are available in the US, with others in the UK and EU, researchers chose not to name the items or 14 brands involved.

Dr Jenni Shearston, an expert.