As we continue to embark upon a future into a world that is continually full of brand-new synthetic chemicals, it is important to continue to bear in mind that we simply don't know yet how all of these new chemicals affect our bodies. New drugs are manufactured and marketed each year. Is there any link between medications and the recent explosion in food allergies? What about the hormones present in contraceptives that are flushed into our drinking water supply every day? Does this sudden outburst of chemicals have any effect on public health? A fascinating story from PBS, entitled "The Complicated Question of Drugs in the Water", examines current and potential problems that occur from pharmaceuticals that cannot be completely filtered by our current water treatment plants. You really should read the whole thing, but here is an excerpt: Scientists think that the main way that the vast majority of pharmaceuticals get into the wastewater is through disposal. The vernacular for many years was to flush unwanted medications down the toilet, and many people still do that despite updated federal guidelines that now advise people to either take unused drugs to a collection site or mix them with kitty litter or coffee grounds and put them in the trash. (The only exception to this are narcotic pain relievers and other hazardous substances.) But even with these guidelines, plenty of medications still end up in sewers, wastewater treatment plants, and, to some degree, back our water supplies. The takeaway point is to be sure to be responsible with the pharmaceutical drugs in your possession and to dispose of them properly.
0 Comments
Your comment will be posted after it is approved.
Leave a Reply. |
Categories
All
DisclaimerUnless otherwise attributed, all content is written by Kyle Johnson, DC, of Johnson Family Chiropractic of Peoria.
All images used are under Creative Commons license. Although every effort has been made to provide an accurate description of our chiropractic care and its benefits, the information given on this website and blog is not intended to be, nor should it be interpreted as, medical advice for any condition. If you have any questions regarding your condition, you should seek the help of Dr. Johnson in person, so that he may properly assess your condition. This blog is provided by Johnson Family Chiropractic of Peoria, S.C., proudly located in Peoria, IL. |