Chemicals that Cause Autoimmune Disease Q&A

Exposure to certain chemicals like mercury, silica, lead, pesticides, PCBs, and Bisphenol A (BPA) has been linked to the development of autoimmune diseases. These chemicals are often found in everyday items such as contaminated fish, dental fillings, vaccines, construction materials, pottery, paint, gasoline, plastic products, and cigarette smoke.

At the Center For Occupational and Environmental Medicine (COEM), we believe in the importance of minimizing exposure to these potentially harmful chemicals. They can provide advice on how to reduce exposure and potentially lower the risk of developing these conditions.

Importantly, they understand that not everyone exposed to these chemicals will develop an autoimmune disease. Genetic predisposition plays a significant role, and these chemicals may simply increase the risk in those already predisposed.

If you are concerned about your risk of developing an autoimmune disease, we can help determine your risk level and provide strategies to reduce your exposure to potential triggers. At COEM, we are dedicated to helping our patients understand and manage the risks associated with autoimmune diseases.

The COEM team is equipped to conduct thorough evaluations of each patient’s health status and lifestyle, including potential exposure to heavy metals such as mercury and lead, and environmental toxins like tetrachloroethylene and silica. They also consider the possible effects of certain pharmaceutical drugs that can stimulate immune responses and potentially contribute to the development of autoimmune diseases.

Understanding the role of agricultural chemicals, endocrine-disrupting chemicals like BPA, and the impact of food additives and processed foods on the immune system is also part of the holistic approach at COEM. The team understands that these substances can disrupt the immune system’s function and interfere with the body’s hormonal systems, leading to conditions like celiac disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis.

They also acknowledge the potential role of viral and bacterial infections in the development of autoimmune diseases and provide strategies for managing these risks. Their comprehensive approach includes understanding the importance of gut health in regulating immune responses, and they offer guidance on diet and lifestyle modifications to help maintain a healthy gut microbiota.

The COEM team continues to stay updated on the latest research related to autoimmune diseases and the potential role of chemicals and environmental factors in their development. Through this commitment to education and patient care, they aim to provide the most effective strategies for preventing and managing autoimmune diseases.

While the exact causes of these diseases are still unknown, environmental factors, such as exposure to certain chemicals, play a significant role. Research supports the potential link between exposure to specific chemicals and an increased risk of developing autoimmune diseases, including conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and multiple sclerosis. These chemicals, found in everyday items like plastics, pesticides, solvents, and cosmetics, can interfere with the body’s endocrine system and produce detrimental developmental, reproductive, neurological, and immune effects.

The team at COEM are dedicated to helping patients understand these risks and implement strategies to reduce chemical exposure. This includes:

• Choosing BPA-free products: We recommend opting for food packaging and consumer items labeled “BPA-free.”

• Avoiding phthalates: Patients should check product labels for ingredients like “phthalates” or “DEHP.”

• Ventilating indoor spaces: Regularly opening windows and doors can reduce levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

• Using natural cleaning products: Dr. Lieberman suggests selecting products free from harsh chemicals, like bleach or ammonia.

We support regulations to limit the use of these harmful chemicals and work to educate the public about the potential risks they pose, contributing to lower rates of autoimmune diseases.

It’s crucial to note that chemical exposure is only one factor contributing to the development of autoimmune diseases. Genetics, diet, infections, and other environmental factors also play a significant role.

Reducing exposure to certain chemicals could potentially lower the risk of developing autoimmune diseases, but it’s not a definitive guarantee. It’s always recommended to follow a healthy lifestyle, regularly consult with healthcare professionals and stay informed about potential risks and how to mitigate them.

The regulations governing exposure to harmful chemicals worldwide are therefore of crucial relevance to their practice.

Chemical Exposure in Workplaces:

Our practice deals with conditions that might arise due to prolonged exposure to harmful chemicals in workplaces. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in the U.S. and the Occupational Safety and Health Directive (OSH Directive) in the EU have established regulations limiting exposure to hazardous chemicals such as asbestos, lead, and benzene. These regulations help our team understand permissible exposure limits (PELs) and the potential health risks that patients might face due to overexposure to these chemicals.

Environmental Protection and Toxic Substances Control Regulations:

The COEM team also considers the regulations established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) and the Superfund program. These regulations help the medical team identify potential environmental exposures to hazardous chemicals that might be affecting their patients’ health.

International Conventions and Guidelines:

Conventions like the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) and the Basel Convention on Transboundary Movements of Hazardous Wastes, as well as guidelines from the World Health Organization (WHO), play a crucial role in helping the COEM team identify potential sources of chemical exposure that could be affecting a patient’s health.

Understanding these regulations and guidelines is vital for the COEM team. They help in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases caused by environmental and occupational exposure to harmful chemicals. The team continually updates their knowledge as scientific research yields new information about chemical hazards, ensuring they can provide the best possible care for their patients. We serve patients from Charleston, Mt. Pleasant, Summerville, North Charleston SC, Ladson, SC, Hanahan SC, James Island SC, John’s Island SC, Daniel Island SC, and all of South Carolina, nationally, and internationally.