By Mapaballo Borotho
- The Democratic Alliance has urged the National Consumer Commission to investigate sanitary products allegedly contaminated with harmful chemicals.
- A University of the Free State study found that some products contain Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs), which may cause cancer and fertility issues.
- The DA says this is a serious public health concern that requires urgent attention.
The Democratic Alliance is calling on the National Consumer Commission to investigate sanitary products that are reportedly contaminated with harmful chemicals.
This comes after a study from the University of the Free State found that certain sanitary products in South Africa contain harmful chemicals called Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs).
When exposed to these chemicals in the long run, women are likely to develop certain types of cancer or experience fertility issues.
DA spokesperson for Women, Youth and People with Disabilities, Angel Khanyile, says these findings represent not only a consumer protection issue, but a serious public health concern that demands urgent attention.
“Menstrual hygiene products are not luxury goods, but essential items. They are used monthly by young girls in schools, working women, and vulnerable communities who rely on both retail purchases and government-supported sanitary dignity programmes.
The dignity, health and safety of women and girls must never be compromised for profit,” said Khanyile.
EDCs can interfere with the hormonal system, potentially causing reproductive problems, developmental disorders, fertility impairment, an increased risk of certain cancers, as well as metabolic disorders.
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