Health Risk Assessment Due to the Presence of Glyphosate in the Fibers and Super Absorbent Gels of Baby Diapers

Abstract

Abstract It is estimated that a baby uses around 6,000 disposable diapers before he is toilet trained and has no further need for their use. Even though modern technologies have brought breakthrough advances regarding the health and hygiene of diaper use, infants that use disposable diapers are still subjected to a possible health risk. Throughout the years there has been very limited research conducted regarding the analytical techniques used to determine the chemical composition of baby diapers and whether they present a potential health risk to the infant population using them. In this research project, we are looking deeply into the chemical composition of the fibers and absorbent gels within disposable baby diapers. Long-term exposure of toxic compounds such as glyphosate, PAHs, and PCBs have been proven to possess a carcinogenic effect by studies conducted by the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry of the Department of Health and Human Services of the United States. Our objective is to use solvent extraction and analytical techniques such as liquid chromatography to determine the presence of glyphosate found within the fibers and absorbent gels of disposable baby diaper brands commercially sold in Mexico City in order to evaluate a potential risk to human health in a population less than 1 year and a half of age.