Not every news organization transcribed the “toxic tubs” study put out by the coalition of activist groups called the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, David Brown of the Washington Post actually decided to see what the scientific research said about the two chemicals, formaldehyde and 1,4-dioxane:
Extensive studies of two toxic chemicals found in children’s bath and personal care products suggest that if they pose a health hazard, it is likely to be extremely small and probably incalculable, a review of scientific research shows.
Despite this opening graph, the copy desk chose to headline the story “Review finds modest risk from children’s toiletries” even though there’s nothing to support this ratcheting up of the threat (although what does a “modest risk” actually mean?). Brown also added some useful information to our deconstruction of the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics report on the main STATS website.
At the Society of Toxicology’s annual meeting, which will be held in Baltimore next week, a CDC scientist is scheduled to present a study in which blood levels of 1,4-dioxane were measured in about 2,000 Americans 12 and older. No detectable amounts were found. That suggests actual — as opposed to theoretical — exposure to the compound is virtually nil.
The Post piece is a reminder (to, for example, USA Today ) that these activist reports are neither peer-reviewed nor scientific, and cherry-pick data to make the case for their overarching agenda.
Posted by Trevor Butterworth 
