Two chemical solvents linked to cancer banned by EPA

Linda Robles’ daughter Tianna died in 2007 of a rare type of kidney cancer. At the same time, as reported in MedicalXpress, the groundwater near the Robles’ home was found to be contaminated with trichloroethylene (TCE) and declared a superfund site that are subject to government cleanup.  

TCE and perchloroethylene (Perc) are found in spot removers, lubricants, automotive care products and glue.

The EPA’s assistant administrator, Michal Freedhoff, commented that the risk is too great, and it is unacceptable to allow the use of these products when there are safer alternatives. Health advocates and environmentalists are pleased with the EPA’s move as they have been advocating the cleanup and ban for years.

According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), TCE has been found to cause non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and both kidney and liver cancers. TCE causes injury to the immune and nervous systems.

The Toxic Substances Control Act instated in December 2024, has banned all use of these chemicals.

The second chemical that has been banned by the EPA, Perc, is less harmful but still may cause kidney, brain, liver and testicular cancer. It has also been found to be injurious to the liver and immune system.

The Perc ban is somewhat more flexible than the TCE ban as it allows certain industrial use but cautions that workers must be protected by having specific rules in place.

Industry groups objected to the new EPA rules state that the bans would impact certain industries and the economy.

Linda Robles, who is now an advocate for cleaner air and water, stated that the EPA’s new rules have been promised for years and although they are finally in place, nothing can bring back her daughter.

Source: MedicalXpress – Medical Xpress – medical research advances and health news

Banned Chemicals EPA kidney cancer Liver non-Hodgkin lymphoma

Last modified: February 11, 2025