Khaberni - Researchers revealed increasing health concerns related to "fast fashion" clothes, after a recent study suggested they might contain a toxic substance that could pose a risk to human health, especially in children.
"Fast fashion" clothes, which are produced in large quantities and quickly using synthetic materials, are sold by global companies like H&M, Shein, and Zara, at low prices not exceeding a few dollars. This sector is active in the United States, where its value was estimated at about 21 billion dollars in 2024. Despite growing awareness of its environmental impacts, information about its health effects remains relatively limited.
In this context, researchers conducted a study that revealed some pieces of clothing might contain lead, a heavy metal that can seep into the body through the skin or mouth, which may lead to damage in the brain and nervous system, and could cause cancer and autism, and is linked to behavioral disorders and developmental problems, in addition to negative effects on blood vessels that may raise the risk of high blood pressure.
Experts confirm that there is no safe level of exposure to lead, although the Consumer Product Safety Commission sets a maximum limit of 100 parts per million in children's clothing.
The study, conducted by a research team in Indiana, showed that 11 t-shirts from children's clothes classified as "fast fashion," and dyed in multiple colors, all contained lead levels exceeding the recommended safe limit. The results also indicated that clothes in bright colors, such as red and yellow, recorded the highest rates of this metal.
These clothes were displayed in low-cost stores specializing in "fast fashion," intended for children, without disclosing their names. Researchers speculate that this problem may not be limited to children's clothes but could also include adult clothes produced in the same manner.
One of the researchers involved in the study indicated that children are more vulnerable to risk, not only because of their body nature but also because of behaviors that may involve putting clothes in their mouths, which increases the likelihood of direct exposure to harmful substances.
The exact reason for the presence of lead in these clothes remains unresolved, but researchers speculate it is related to dyeing methods, where lead acetate is sometimes used to help dyes adhere and stabilize the colors, despite the availability of less used natural alternatives due to their higher cost.
As part of the study, researchers conducted laboratory digestion simulation tests to estimate the amount of lead that might be absorbed by the body, especially in cases like chewing on clothes, a behavior that might be observed in children. The results showed that lead levels could exceed safe limits after this simulation.
The study did not disclose the names of the brands tested, nor did it clarify whether the clothes were washed before analysis, which is a factor that could affect lead levels.
The study results are scheduled to be presented during a scientific meeting of the American Chemical Society in Atlanta, as research teams continue to work on analyzing additional data and studying the effect of washing in reducing lead levels.
It should be noted that exposure to lead can occur from multiple sources, including paint and water pipes and some consumer products.
Symptoms of exposure to lead include behavioral issues, learning difficulties, disorders in hearing and speech, while adults are also susceptible to its risks.
Experts agree that the best approach to mitigating these risks involves removing lead sources from the environment, with the possibility of conducting medical screenings for children when there are doubts or concerns.
