OHIO NETWORK FOR THE CHEMICALLY INJURED
Sharing, Support, Community Education and Advocacy
P.O. Box 29290.  Parma, Ohio 44129  (440) 845-1888

November 8, 1998

Alice Knox and
Interagency Workgroup on MCS Members
Agency tor Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
1600 Clifton Road, Mail Stop E57
Atlanta, GA 30333

Dear Ms. Knox and Distinguished Workgroup Members:

 Thank you for your attention to and research on the very
 important subject of Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) and for
 giving us the opportunity to comment on the data you have
 collected.

It is our strong observation that there is so much controversy on
the subject matter of "proving" MCS "exists" as a "scientific
entity" that the needs of those with this disease are being
totally overlooked.  Our primary recommendation is to somehow
convey this in your final report.  We are human beings who are
severely suttering.  Obviously this disease needs to be
researched, much the same as others have been.  However, during
the interim, empathetic statements encouraging physicians and
others to address our human needs for emotional support as.well
as medical support are crucial to our well-being and the
reduction of unnecessary additional stress levels.

We feel there is far too much emphasis on and recommendations for
conducting psychological testing when it is not at all warranted.
A good physician knows that his most important information comes
from the patient and we are all telling you that chemicals are
making us sick.  The toxicological literature is replete with the
symptoms we are experiencing even though we are reacting to lower
levels of the chemicals.  OSHA reduces threshold levels based on
observations that this is possible.  Why then, are we trying to
rebuild the wheel?  The research is already there but the
chemical industry is hiring medical experts to confuse and
misdirect the proper issues.  Why waste precious valuable time
exploring psychological possibilities which can never be proven
"scientifically" and deny those with MCS of a proper diagnosis?
Psychology is based on the interpretation of behaviors of human
beings.  This often leads to mistakes.  To interpret MCS symptoms
using psychological rationale is treading on unscientific ground
based solely on opinion.

We are hoping you will immediately encourage additional funding
not only for MCS research in general, but for further expanded
studies on the effects of certain commonly used chemicals on the
human body.  We have made suggestions in our attached comments.
This will not only help those suffering from MCS but will also
provide tools for preventing certain cancers, lupus, asthma, MS,
chronic fatigue, learning disabilities, arthritis and many other
diseases.

Our group is aware of the negative comments of other MCS groups
regarding your report.  While we have no knowledge of the
validity of some of the comments, we have seen more current and
representative MCS studies that have not been included in your
report and would hope that, at the least, you will make attempts
to include these as well.  We feel some of the reports suggesting
psychological origin are biased, misleading, unfair and
unscientific.  John Stossel, in his 20-20 Program took many
comments of those with MCS out of context and here too these
reports are out of context and not representative of those with
MCS.  There have been medical community disputes concerning some
of the published psychological reports but this fact is not even
addressed in your report.  Thus, your inclusion of these
controversial studies may lead some to believe they are
"scientific" which they are not.  Everyone must play by the same
set of rules and this is apparently not happening.
Unfortunately, the unfairness directly affects those with MCS who
are caught in the middle of this controversy and who, as a result
of the controversy do not get the support they require from
either their families or physicians.

Recently I had the opportunity to hear Pulitzer Prize winner
Carey Mullis speak about his DNA research on public radio.
During the program Carey stated that HIV has not been
scientifically proven to be the cause of AIDS.  He indicated that
10,000 labs are sponsored by funding and many HIV papers have
been written as a result.  However, he states there is still no
positive connection between HIV and AIDS, the name given to a
disease in which there are 29 symptoms.  While this may or may
not be true, those with AIDS obviously need help.  And so do we!

There are "unproven" grounds and controversies concerning the
diagnosis and treatments for numerous diseases but those
controversies do not mean the patients have psychological
problems.  Psychological problems usually occur because of
disease.  If those with MCS are expected to prove this disease
scientifically, then all of those opposed who "continue to debate
the validity of MCS" (your Predecisional Draft, Foreword, Page 2)
must also scientifically prove, with tests, their conclusions.
Flawed, non-peer reviewed and questionable studies debating MCS
should not be permitted in your report.
Our suggestions and comments on your report are attached.  Please
let us know it we can be of further assistance.

Sincerely,
Toni M. Temple, Chair

OHIO NETWORK FOR THE CHEMICALLY INJURED
Sharing, Support, Community Education and Advocacy
P.O. Box 29290, Parma.  Ohio 44129 (440) 845-1888



MCS/ADA INFORMATION

     Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) is a disorder which
presents with physical limitations in the body's ability to
process and combat exposures to both low and high levels of
environmental chemicals.  The disorder impairs one's abilities in
a range of limitations which may include one or more of the
following: concentration, breathing, walking and coordination.

     Accommodations may include providing separate areas for
those who have MCS where exposures to chemical products such as
perfumes, cigarette smoke, gasoline, pesticides, petrochemicals
and other triggers of the disorder can be mitigated.  These
chemicals may be found in new carpeting, paints, wallpapers,
furniture, building materials and commonly used cleaning
products.

     Other accommodations may also include the use of alternative
products which are more readily tolerated by individuals with
tics.

     It would be a reasonable accommodation to notify patients
with 14CS when out of the ordinary cleaning and remodeling is
planned during their scheduled appointments.

     It would be a reasonable accommodation to have available one
scent-free staff member assigned to care for the needs of
patients with MCS or related disorders such as asthma and other
respiratory disabilities.



Prepared 1997 by Toni Temple, Chair ONFCI with the assistance of
Jeffrey J. Moyer, Consultant on Access, Member, Department of
Justice ADA Implementation Network, (440) 442-2779,
w.w.w.jeffmoyer.com

COMMENTS OF THE OHIO NETWORK FOR THE CHEMICALLY INJURED (ONFCI)
                        in response to
        -.REPORT ON MULTIPLE CHEMICAL SENSITIVITY (MCS)



Predecisional Draft dated-August 24, 1998.



General Comments (supporting non-psychological basis of MCS)

We would like the committee to remember that there is no
absolute, concrete scientific proof for many diseases and
illnesses.  There is no scientific test to prove a headache or
backache, yet it goes without saying these conditions exist and
physicians do treat these complaints without labeling their
patients.  No one questions why some people experience morning
sickness, seasickness, allergies from bee stings and others do
not.  Yet many are questioning the fact that people with MCS
react to lower levels of chemicals than the majority of the
population.  Why?

There is no scientific proof of the causes of most cancers.  No
one knows how breast cancer starts or can be prevented at this
point in time.  It cannot be diagnosed until it can be seen but
that doesn't mean it wasn't there before.  Why is there an
increase in prostrate cancer and what is it being caused by?  Why
do more children have asthma today and why are learning
disabilities and attention deficit disorders more prevalent?  It
is widely understood that many of these illnesses are being
caused by chemical exposures.

Some people may be exposed to the same chemicals in a factory
setting and present with different diseases.  My daughter and I
were both exposed to zinc chloride in the home setting from
oxidizing galvanized metal in furnace ductwork.  We both
presented with entirely different symptoms and ultimately
diseases.  I now have MCS and a chronic vascular condition and my
daughter required kidney surgery several years after the
exposure.  Prior to our symptoms, our sheep dog became
hyperactive and lost control of bodily functions.  We do not yet
understand the long term effects of low level chemical exposure
on human beings, however, the above mentioned health crises
certainly have causality in our complex and ever-expanding man-
made world.  It is also crucial to consider that individuals have
differing responses to similar exposures.

The analogy I am trying to make is that MCS, (just one of the
many diseases and illnesses one can get from exposure to
chemicals) is being touted and labeled as being of
psychological/psychiatric origin and yet, it is no different than
many other diseases with one exception.  We are the only ones who
are able to identify the cause of our illness in a timely enough
manner to cause serious liability problems for the offenders.
While everyone knows that cancer can be caused by toxic
chemicals, it takes years for cancer to develop.  By then, there
is no hope of proving where it came from.  Those with MCS can
immediately pinpoint the source of their illness.  This is a
threat to the chemical industry much the same as the cigarette
industry is threatened (and fighting) studies on second hand
smoke.

All scientists recognize that it is much easier to disprove a
fact than it is to prove a fact.  The chemical industry and its
medical supporters have "disproved" MCS and have given us the
unfair task of "proving" it.  However, the fact remains that
there is no "scientific" explanation or proof of the
psychological theory origin of MCS.



Nutrition

This is probably the most important area of MCS research and has
been totally neglected.  There is a distinct relationship between
MCS, proper nutrition, food additives and severity of symptoms.

Symptoms of MCS are not always consistent and could well depend
upon the absorption of nutrients.  The body's ability to perform
its functions is based upon this factor.  Insufficient or
inadequate nutrition can affect the oxygen levels in the body by
blocking travel and absorption pathways.  Lack of nutrition could
well affect the blood brain barrier and spinal cord fluid which
obtains its nourishment from the bloodstream.  The body's
homeostasis is ultimately affected by lack of proper nutrients.
This is well recognized in the medical profession in regards to
potassium.

     1. Those with MCS suffer from severe food allergies after
their chemical exposures (or the onset of MCS).

     2. Certain chemicals in foods affect the digestion process
and therefore the cells and immune system.  This completely
alters the way food is used in the body.  In chemotherapy it is
well known that the chemicals are affecting molecules in the fast
dividing tissues and causing symptoms of nausea, hair loss and
anemia.  The parallel in similar symptoms from chemical additives
in foods and other routes of toxic exposures must be researched.
Perhaps the limbic kindling and olfactory nerve theories are only
the end result and not the initial cause of MCS.

     In addition, our saliva is key in chewing and digesting
food.  One major detox pathway for those with MCS (whose other
pathways may be blocked) is salivation.  Most people with MCS,can
actually taste the chemicals they are being exposed to, similar
to garlic/onion salivation reactions, and this must not be
overlooked.  The salivation is so extreme and unpleasant at times
that those with MCS expectorate their saliva.  This chemically
altered saliva could well be affecting our enzymes and other
digestive processes and causing typical symptoms of irritable
bowel syndrome.  Ingesting new chemicals in foods being eaten
while detoxing others in the saliva also causes unknown
synergistic effects.  It becomes a vicious circle in which the
body, in an automatic mode for survival, calls for further
nourishment to dilute the chemicals it has already absorbed and
is attempting to detox.

     Unaltered enzymes are necessary for proper digestion.  Any
key components of digestion must not be interfered with.  The
body's absorption of nutrients, vitamins and minerals can be
dangerously affected by certain chemical exposures.  Toxins can
replace nutrients, but do not perform the same function in the
body.  For example, zinc replaces iron in the bloodstream (and
mimics it in routine blood exams).  This sets off a chain
reaction which disturbs the entire nutritional system and results
in anemia.  Digestion needs certain vitamins in order to absorb
or otherwise function and if these minerals or vitamins have been
replaced by a mimicking agent, the entire homeostasis of the body
is seriously affected.  In addition, nutrients required for
normal daily functioning are instead being used to feed the
"flight or fight" response antibodies and insufficient nutrition
takes place as a result.  Our body will leach nutrients from any
major organ in attempts to stabilize, but at some point
malnutrition is eventually inevitable.  A good comparison is the
effects of alcohol and street drugs on nutritional depletion.

     It seems that some with MCS who have taken high doses of
vitamins seem to do a moderate turn-around and improve as
compared with those who do not.  However, it has been a hit and
miss situation in which no one seems to know which nutrient may
have been deficient or which one caused the turnaround.  The
dangers of low potassium in the body are well known and have been
well studied.  Comparable research into other nutrients is key to
MCS research.  Improper use of nutrients can create other
imbalances.  For example, after my initial MCS symptoms, a
physician prescribed moderate daily doses of Vitamin B-6 (not in
complex), a diuretic and an anti-inflammatory.  My MCS symptoms
were exacerbated, numbness of the extremities began at that time
and the initial onset of hives developed.

     Food cravings should be studied for significance to
deficient nutrients.

     3.   Those with MCS develop an intolerance for food
additives such as preservatives, dyes, msg, sulfites, nutrasweet
and other artificial sweeteners and suffer severe seemingly
unrelated symptoms when ingesting these additives. Some symptoms
include arthritis, asthma, inability to mentally function,
attention deficit, generalized pain, headaches, fatigue,
depression, incontinence, indigestion and acid reflux.

     The cause of obesity could well be linked to the body's
attempts to dilute the toxins being ingested, inhaled and
absorbed.  It is commonly known that toxins store in the fat
tissues but, they are unable to be stored by themselves.

     Nutritionists and dietitians must be better educated about
the effect of chemical additives in the food supply on the human
body.  Low fat, diabetic and heart patient diets all contain
harmful ingredients which could well cause the very problems they
are meant to prevent.  Manufactured chemicals interfere with the
normal function of endocrine glands and throw the body out of
balance.   Dyes can affect the nervous system and cerebrospinal
fluid.  Research needs to be conducted on how the blood brain
barrier is being affected.  The muscles can absorb what the body
should eliminate through the kidneys and studies in this area are
also warranted.

     4. Many with MCS later present with diabetes and changes in
body weight (extreme weight gain or loss or both), changes in
metabolism, anemia and other nutritionally related disorders.

     5. Many with MCS, even though they appear to be eating
properly, do not properly metabolize their foods.  They have
protruding abdomens (comparable to the abdomens of those who are
suffering from starvation), a sign that the body is not being
properly nourished.

     one of the first symptoms of MCS is the inability to eat
foods previously tolerated.  Indigestion, acid reflux, stomach
pain, irritable bowel, nausea and bloating are typical.  These
symptoms greatly dissipate or disappear after the MCS patient
learns to avoid food additives such as preservatives and dyes,
etc., as mentioned in (3) above, as well as preventing other
unnecessary chemical exposures.

     If hydrochloric acid in the stomach is produced when we eat
certain carbohydrates and protein, what happens when other
additives such as pesticides, msg, preservatives or other toxic
chemicals are simultaneously ingested and combine with the
hydrochloric acid and are then absorbed by our cells?

     6. Studies indicating the alteration of DNA by formaldehyde
have been published.  Perhaps it is not the genes which are
responsible for disease at all, but rather the alteration of the
genes by chemicals?  Families generally live in the same homes
and genes could be changed by common environments not inherited.
Until this is thoroughly researched, we will never know.



Neurological Symptoms

We feel it is urgent to consider the various stages of MCS.  We
may all appear to be presenting with different symptoms when in
actuality we are at different stages of the disease process.  In
addition, some symptoms totally disappear but reoccur with
certain chemical exposures.

For example, it is extremely difficult to concentrate after
exposures to chemicals, particularly pesticides, disinfectants
and petroleum fumes.  This may be why so many with MCS claim
inability to mentally function and then do well on tests when
they are not being affected by the chemicals causing these
problems.  We feel the neurological symptoms must closely be
studied with the nutritional aspects because nutrition is so
closely related to the proper neurological functioning of the
body.  This is very comparable to using "bad gasoline" in an
automobile.  It does not matter how great the auto - it needs
the proper fuel to perform efficiently and optimally.


Psychological, Psychiatric theories (including Classical
Conditioning) vs.  Chemically Induced MCS

ATSDR Toxicological Profiles and general literature on chemicals
used in everyday life describe the same types of symptoms being
experienced by those with MCS.  Warnings are given in the tiny
print of drug inserts and on the backs of cans and packages of
pesticides, household products for painting, decorating, cleaning
and remodeling. (The crossbones of yesteryear seem to have faded
into extinction).  Of interest to note is that nowhere in any of
the toxicological literature or on warning labels is it even
moderately suggested that those who experience these symptoms
have a Psychological/psychiatric problem!


Housewives and others routinely use the same chemicals as do
teens who "sniff" household products to achieve a mind altering
effect for recreational purposes.  Some of these teens die.  Why
is it then so difficult for physicians, chemists and scientists
to understand the connection here?  These chemicals not only
cause death, they cause illness first.  And not everyone dies.
They get MCS.

 In reading the package inserts of numerous pharmaceutical drugs,
 including anti-depressants, one will find that these drugs have
 been known to cause depression, seizures,, memory loss, dizziness,
 nausea, parkinsonism, hallucinations, numbness, death and a host
 of other symptoms in some people.  The package insert does not in
 any way indicate that the drugs cause these symptoms only in
 people with prior psychological/psychiatric problems nor does it
 warn those with psychological/psychiatric problems not to use the
 drugl As a matter of fact,. they encourage the use of the drugs
 for what they deem to be psychiatric problems, i.e., depress-ion.
 Drugs contain dyes, preservatives and other chemicals people may
 react to similar to the reactions those with MCS have which are
 caused by chemical exposures or foods containing the same types
 of additives.  There is absolutely no difference between what is
 happening to those with MCS and what the pharmaceutical industry
 admits happens to those who take their prescriptions or other
 drugs.  Yet only those with MCS are labelled as having
 "psychiatric" problems.  This simply makes no sense whatsoever.

"The fourth major cause of death in the U.S. is acute drug
reaction." Journal of American Medical Assn. 1998 279 (15):1200-
1205.  What about all of the people taking prescription drugs who-
do not die?  Prescription drugs, as-well as household chemicals,
cause the same symptoms those with MCS experience.  We are
inundated with untested chemicals in our food, our clothing, our
air, our medicine, and our hobbies.  Is it any wonder we are '
getting sick?

Those physicians and scientists who claim MCS is of
psychological/psychiatric origin have no scientific basis to
prove their theories.other than to flaunt their degrees and cite
behaviors of those with MCS as falling into certain DSM
categories.  Most of these "behaviors" (especially depression)
are known reactions to certain chemicals as evidenced in ATSDR's
own toxicological profiles.  As mentioned in your MCS report
there is debate as to which came first, MCS or the psychological
problems.  However, the scientific fact here is that not everyone
with MCS has psychological/psychiatric problems so that theory
does not hold any water.  In addition, it is possible for a human
being to have more than one disease or illness at the same time,
i.e., a cold, high blood pressure and cancer.  Enough said.

The psychological theory "experts" have failed to remember that
one of the most basic human instincts known to man is the
survival instinct.  And, in MCS, avoidance of a chemical one
knows will harm him is a survival instinct, not a "psychological"
problem.  Anyone with any common shred of sense would avoid
anything which they have reason to believe would cause them harm.
To diagnose an avoidance behavior as a symptom of depression and
to drug that person with an anti-depressant which makes him
unaware that he is still being harmed because his body chemistry
is now altered is professional drug abuse.  This practice should
be seriously questioned.  Administering chemical drugs to an
already chemically sensitive patient is adding insult to injury,
and in most cases worsens the MCS condition, causes depression
and sometimes leads to suicidal incidents.

In the Shusterman and Dager example given on page 32, the
"suggestion" that MCS is an odor-triggered panic attack is
without foundation and doesn't make any sense at all when one
considers that most people with MCS typically experience symptoms
first and may or may not notice the odors later when they are
trying to determine what made them sick.  Physical manifestations
may not even appear until hours after the toxic exposure (i.e.,
hives, swelling, inability to digest food properly, arthritis,
memory loss, fatigue, etc.)

Some are affected by chemicals without having smelled any odors
whatsoever.  The heightened odor sensitivity that first presents
with the onset of MCS lessens with time and the avoidance of
triggers. others lose their sense of smell completely.  It is a
well known fact that chemicals and drugs absorb through the skin
into the bloodstream and can be absorbed through the eyes
directly into the bloodstream.  For example, someone wearing a
new fabric treated with formaldehyde and fire retardants may not
experience any reaction until after physical exertion - their
sweat releases the chemicals in the fabric by moisture.  Another
example would be protective eye goggles used by chemists to avoid
not only the splashing of chemicals into the eyes, but the fumes
as well.  Many, including myself, wear a respirator to lessen the
effects of chemical exposure.  However, while the respirators may
eliminate inhalation of odors, they do not totally prevent
chemical exposures.  Many notice cigarette smoke in their hair
and on their clothing.  Those with MCS are aware that chemical
residue also attach to their hair and clothing and cause health
symptoms until the offenders are removed.

MCS does not at all meet the criteria for the Classical
Conditioning model.

The example by Kurt 1995 that MCS is a symptom complex resembling
panic disorder is just what your report indicates.  It is his
belief.  He has offered no proof that MCS fits the DSM-III-R
description, only his belief that it "resembles" it. And '
because he is an "expert" and we are not, and most people think
the experts are the only ones who have any authority to speak, he
can damage our reputations and lives in one fell swoop with those
careless words.

Reiterating what we have said elsewhere in this response,
chemicals, as evidenced by the information in your toxicological
profiles, cause many symptoms and the "fight or flight" response
automatically kicks in when the body senses danger '  Would one
panic if he felt his life was suddenly in danger.  Of course.
According to Kurt, it one woke up to find his house on fire and
panicked that too would resemble a DSM-III-R description taken
out of context.  And that is exactly what is happening to those
with MCS who are being labeled in this manner.

 We totally disagree with your recommendations, on page 34, that
 psychological factors should be carefully evaluated in the
 diagnosis and treatment of patients who have MCS.  Of first and
 uppermost importance is to first find out what is causing the
 symptoms and not wasting precious valuable time on psychological
 causality.  Otherwise, the patient will suffer irreversible
 further harm and damage by additional exposures to the incitant
 causing the permanent health injuries.  I would be dead today if
 I had opted to follow traditional medicine's way of thinking.  I
 was dying of anemia which could not be diagnosed in a routine
 blood exam.  Therefore, my symptoms which physicians could not
 properly diagnose left them only one conclusion - depression.  I
 knew I had experienced a major exposure to zinc chloride and
 later learned that zinc had replaced most of the iron stores in
 my body and mimicked it in the blood tests.  A ferritin iron
 level of my blood (a year after the onset of MCS and my
 disability ) showed my severe anemia.  I am alive today only
 because I read the ATSDR profile on zinc and shared it with my
 physician.  Had I bought the "depression" diagnosis (as many
 sadly do) and taken anti-depressants instead of iron treatments,
 I would be dead today.  As it stands, I am totally disabled but
 wouldn't be if my original family physician had believed me and
 given me the appropriate medical care.  Even though we do have
 certain laboratory tests available does not mean they are
 infallible and absolute.  They are meant only as guidelines to be
 used by physicians who should be observing both their patients'
 bodies and listening to what the patients are telling them. if I
 knew then what I do today, I would have avoided what I knew was
 making me sick (even though physicians stated I was healthy by
 their limited criteria).  Massive education of physicians in
 toxicology and nutrition is mandatory to prevent disability and
 save the lives of those who are being misdiagnosed and placed on
 dangerous drugs.

Many with MCS have lived through these types of situations and
are shocked by not only the lack of knowledge the medical
profession possesses but at their attitudes and biased,
unscientific opinions which pronounce us as to be a
psychological/psychiatric entity.  Yes, we are angry.  We have
not been treated fairly, have been cast out from society and then
labelled.  Self-abusers who are drug addicts and alcoholics not
only get empathy and medical care, they have shelters and receive
disability pay.  We, on the other hand, have been unwillingly
poisoned and now must suffer the consequences of a society who
would blame us somehow for not being able to be "tough enough" to
withstand the chemical onslaughts as others have done.  Who
wouldn't be angry?  But we have taken this anger and acted
constructively.  We have educated ourselves and then helped each
other because the medical profession wasn't there for us.  We
have organized support groups, written to Congress, written books
and newsletters, volunteered for studies, attempted to educate
others and have been responsible for many other positive studies
and developments including congressional funding.  Does this type
of behavior fit into a DSM category.  We think not.

While, as indicated on page 24 of your report, most studies show
a preponderance of patients with MCS who are females from 30 to
50 years of age with an above average socioeconomic status, it is
quite easy to explain the reason for this.  Females typically not
only work outside the home but also do the home cleaning and the
laundry and are thus more exposed to toxic chemicals in the
products they use, especially those designed to save time and
eliminate elbow grease.  Many females hang their own wallpaper
and paint their own walls (or are exposed to the fumes created by
the professionals doing it while their husbands are at work).
They typically spend more time in the home and are therefore
closed up with more new carpeting, new furniture and other
remodeling fumes as well as those created by the furnace,
plumbing and other repairmen.  Females give birth to children and
are therefore exposed to more drugs, anesthesia, medical
treatments, tests and hospital exposures.  Females typically
prepare the food and are exposed to pesticide residues while
cleaning fruits and vegetables.  They handle raw meat, cracked
egg shells and other uncooked food. They do the laundry,      using
spot removers, bleaches and fabric softener containing
glutaraldehyde. They sit in schoolyards where buses emit      toxic
diesel fumes waiting for their children. Women have been      given
artificial estrogens for reasons of birth control, change     of life
medications, prevention of cancer and osteoporosis.  Many
products now used in the home (especially plastics) mimic
estrogens and pass through estrogen receptors.  The list of
reasons is endless and must be considered.  Women typically have
more chemical exposures than men.  It is as simple as that.

Rather than focusing on the imagined hypothesis of the immune
systems' ability to be "conditioned" by psychological stimuli,
the focus should be directed on the disruption of the proper
functioning of the digestive system and resultant inability to
absorb nutrients.  There is no known cause of the common cold, a
condition in which the patient can have a host of varying
symptoms.  The cold has not been labeled psychological and is
unquestioningly accepted by physicians and the drug companies
because it is a multi-million dollar business.

We hope you will not be led off the path we need to go down by
the chemical industry who would misdirect you and prefer for you
to study our "psychological problems".  That would give them much
more time free of any liability for the health harm they are
causing.

Numerous beneficial correlation studies could be conducted that
would give you far more information and conclusive proof of what
is actually occurring.  Our recommendations for studies such as
these are included in this response.


Recommendations:

1. Public Education.  Provide educational pamphlets to each
citizen (similar to booklets given to citizens several years ago
to educate about AIDS) to prevent MCS disability and other
diseases caused by chemicals.  Included should be information
concerning the necessity of using caution in the handling of
ordinary household chemicals and pesticides, dangers of mixing
chemicals, proper ventilation during chemical use, the importance
of reading labels, and other informative data.  Education in this
area has been too lax and laws non-existent or non-entorced,
resulting in illness.  People must be taught how to make proper,
informed choices about dangerous products and to learn how to
protect their health.

 2. Medical Testing and Chemical Laboratory Studies Combined.
 Existing chemical laboratory testing must be made available to
 and accepted by the medical profession.  Sputum can be analyzed
 for contents by spirometry it you have some indication as to what
 you have been exposed to.  The only test known to the typical
 general medical profession for sputum is one used to measure
 bacteria.  I was coughing up blood and a blue element and already
 had knowledge that there was zinc chloride both in my furnace
 duct and dust samples of my home.  At least twenty physicians
 totally ignored these facts when the "recognized' sputum test for
 bacteria was "normal' even when I presented them with the sputum
 test showing zinc chloride in my sputum found through valid
 chemical laboratory spirometry procedures.  The chemists were
 appalled and amazed at this total lack of response to a dangerous
 exposure which needed medical attention.  I did not get the
 medical attention and am disabled as a result.

     A testing problem which is very difficult for those with MCS
is that by the time they are able to obtain medical treatment and
have blood and urine samples taken, the elements exposed to have
dissipated in the blood stream and cannot be accurately measured.
This would also account for inconsistent and difficult to
reproduce test results.  At the same time, the chemicals have
stored in the fat cells and can re-enter the bloodstream during
exercise.  Perhaps more accurate testing could be obtained after
certain exercise procedures, similar to heart stress testing on a
treadmill.

3. Conduct Correlation Studies.  The occurrence of MCS has
considerably escalated in the past 10-15 years, along with
episodes of childhood asthma, certain cancers, learning
disabilities, attention deficit disorders, MS and the diagnosis
of depression among others.

Correlation studies comparing ingredients found in products which
have been manufactured during this same time period could prove
the relationship between chemical exposures and MCS.

The following are just a few examples of major changes which have
taken place and for which correlational health relationships must
be studied:

      - The use of plastic milk bottles and food containers
instead ot glass and especially the use of plastics in the
microwave (recent research has found that some plastics are
endocrine disrupters)

     - The tremendous increase in the use of lawn and tree
pesticide application services on a routine, scheduled basis.
Studies comparing pollen allergies vs. pesticide exposure through
the same method of transportation - wind blowing - may document
pesticide sensitization, not pollen allergy in numerous cases

     - Changes in food supply due to extensive dangerous use of
pesticides while growing, harvesting, shipping and preserving
(the use of waxes containing pesticides).  Pesticides are known
endocrine disrupters.

        Relationship between arthritis and the chemicals used to
gas bananas

        Hidden contamination of the food supply (yellow dye fed
to chickens so the yolks appear more yellow; chickens soaked in
MSG, nutrasweet and formaldehyde for longer shelf,life, etc.)

        The dangerous practice of routine indoor pesticide
application services on a routine, scheduled basis.  Many
apartment buildings, including those for senior citizens, insist
on the removal of all food from kitchen cupboards monthly for
mandatory pesticide spraying.

        The change from leaded gasoline to other components in
gasoline including MBTE, BHT/BHA (known to cause breathing
difficulties and also used as an additive in foods and packaging
materials), and other harmful chemicals

     . Careless and unnecessary use of food preservatives, dyes,
msg,l nutrasweet, sulfites and other food additives and their
resultant effects on proper nutrition, behavior, metabolism,
arthritis, the vascular system, mental functioning and other
health effects.

        The common practice of selling pesticides and pesticided
flowers in grocery stores.  The pesticide residuals can leech
into the food supply through air circulation, grocery carts and
checkout counters.

        The predominant substitution of artificial chemicals for
actual ingredients, i.e., chemical blueberries and yeast
"nutrients" and other substitutes in the bread supply (our staff
of life?)

        Addition of sodium benzoate to virtually all soda pop.
Sodium benzoate is a pharmaceutical drug used to correct
metabolism disorders

        Changes in food supply due to antibiotics and hormones
used for animals and animal feed

        Unwarranted increase in the general use of antibiotics

        Relationship between number of x-rays and chronic fatigue
symptoms

        Relationship between exposures to heating plastic tapes
and other plastic components ot VCR's and chemical sensitivity,
asthma, arthritis, chronic fatigue, attention deficit, etc.

        Unwarranted increase in the use of prescription and over
the counter drugs brought about by drug advertising and promotion
(this practice should be abolished)

        The use of computers by practically everyone.  They are
manufactured trom inexpensive plastics (including the wiring)
which outgas petrochemicals, ozone and other dangerous components
and create electromagnetic fields as well

        Homes constructed with attached garages and offices and
other public buildings having underground parking garages which
permit automotive fumes to enter the indoor air supply

        Use of synthetic carpeting and glues vs. natural fabrics

        Health effects from isocyanates in foam used in furniture
and other products

        Health effects from carbonless paper, chemically treated
paper;, perfumed papers, coated fax papers, etc.

        Use of tire retardants and pesticides in mattresses
(probable cause of impotence, sleep apnea, acid reflux '
depression, attention deficit disorders, insomnia and other  sleep
disturbances, anxiety, chronic fatigue syndrome, SIDS and other
disorders as well as MCS)

        Use of numerous untested dental materials, bonding
agents, solvents and plastics which are not regulated or even
required to be listed in one's dental records

        Hot water heaters which are now manufactured with plastic
liners rather than glass

        The prevalent use of air fresheners containing
paradichlorobenzene (increase in asthma as well).

        The prevalent use of disinfectants (even more pronounced
after the discovery of AIDS) especially in hospitals and nursing
homes

     - The prevalent use of ammoniated cleaning products which
are most likely causing synergistic reactions with the
chlorinated water they are mixed with or other cleaning chemicals
that are poured down the same drain

        The prevalent use of fabric finishes and fire retardants
on clothing, especially sleepware tor children, as a result of
the carelessness of a few.  This practice legally protects the
industry and not the people who are subjected to breathing these
chemical fumes while they sleep (or try to sleep).  The benefits
of using these products do not exceed the risks of using these
chemicals.

        The use of latex has replaced many other materials and is
commonly used in shoes.  When feet perspire, these materials can
be absorbed into the bloodstream and can cause the same symptoms
the medical profession is experiencing with the use.of latex
gloves.

        The prevalent use of man-made fabrics vs. natural
materials causing the resultant use of fabric softeners made out
of plasticizer and petrochemical based perfumes

     . The use of indoor air cleaners which produce ozone

        Study the relationship between exposure to molds and
depression.  Investigate why mold exposure caused death in
several babies (Cleveland, OH/Raindbow Babies & Childrens
Hospital) and how it may have also affected adults and older
children living in the same household.

     . The change in chemical composition of laundry detergents
(replacing phosphates with chemicals and.enzymes which are
causing serious health problems; addition of petrochemical
perfumes, etc.)

        The unregulated use of petroleum products and other
dangerous ingredients in perfumes and cosmetics.  In addition,
the synergistic effects of some of these chemicals are obvious.
For example, many cosmetics contain ammonium and other ammonia
products which are then washed off with chlorinated water.   A
basic chemist knows that you cannot mix ammonia and bleach
(chlorine)

        The common use of humidifiers which are connected to
furnaces and thus cannot be properly cleaned.  In addition, they
add moisture to galvanized metal ductwork, thereby causing
oxidation of zinc, a component in galvanized metal which has been
known to cause metal fume fever.

        The common use of air conditioning which creates
condensation, especially on ceiling tiles, thereby breeding mold
and releasing chemicals products from the wet materials which are
then spread through the ventilating system

     . The massive network of freeways which concentrate
automobile pollution in certain neighborhoods.  Compare the
health symptoms of those living near freeways with those who do
not to find correlations for those sensitized to chemicals
(having MCS).     -

     . Research typical prescription and over the counter drug
use by those with MCS prior to the onset of MCS.  Research prior
adverse reactions and relationships to disability, how often
medications of any kind were typically used and various
combinations of drugs which may have been used.  For example, I
presented with pulmonary emboli from birth control pills.  Twenty
years later, with no obvious health effects during the interim, I
presented with deep vein thrombosis from simultaneous
petrochemical, mold and zinc chloride exposures.  There is a
definite relationship to toxic exposure and vascular system
affectation.

        Find the "common denominator" chemicals which cause the
triggering of symptoms.  Some perfume companies and food
manufacturers have already removed certain chemicals from their
products (i.e., BHA/BHT and aroma enhancers).  It may be as
simple as finding one or two chemicals commonly being used as the
cause of many of these problems.

     Our hypotheses touch only the tip of the iceberg but do
present a far more logical and practical approach than placing a
psychological label on those who present with MCS.

      "Dr.  Mom" and other similar pharmaceutical advertising is
nothing more than the cute promotion of legal drug abuse and
should be completely abolished.  Our society has forgotten how to
be self-sufficient, self-reliant and responsible and does not
even attempt to prevent their illnesses.  As evidence, the many
television ads for drugs which will prevent indigestion and acid
reflux.  Why are people eating foods which make them sick in the
first place?  The drug companies and physicians (the experts)
promote this type of behavior.  We have been literally
brainwashed by.pharmaceutical advertising and everyone is looking
for the quick fix to happiness, as postulated in the 20-20--
program on Prozac.

     When considering that most chemical companies manufacture
the products that cause our illnesses and also own the
pharmaceutical companies who manufacture the medications which
attempt to resolve the symptoms created by the chemicals they
manufactured, is it any wonder that they will not acknowledge MCS
nor contribute to related research?  Further, industry is
monitoring itself and this must not be allowed to continue.

     What ever happened to the medical practice of simple
observation of a patient?  In those with MCS, exposure to a
chemical trigger can cause skin color changes, memory loss,
personality changes, sudden need to eliminate, changes in the
voice, arthritic conditions and other symptoms which are readily
apparent, evident and can easily be observed.  We venture to
guess that oxygen deprivation to certain body organs is somehow
involved in this process and cannot be measured with the oxygen
testing method currently in use.  In addition, when muscles
tighten, blood flow (and thus oxygen) is restricted.    Many MCS
patients improve with care by chiropractors and physical
therapists who manipulate the flow of the spinal cord fluid
thereby causing better distribution of oxygen to the brain stem.
The medical profession cannot and must not see current available
limited testing as being absolute, infallible and the final word,
but unfortunately, this is what is being done.

     By copy of our report to the legislators listed below, we
hope to spark a bill which would call for a tax on the
manufacture, sale, distribution or purchase of any toxic chemical
(defined to be any chemical which is capable of producing an
adverse health effect).  Such tax would be placed in a fund for
independent, grant funded research and studies of the health
effects of chemicals on the body and related research in attempts
to prevent these illnesses from occurring in the first place,
rather than looking for quick fixes after the fact.  The ploy of
the drug companies has been to tout the context of benefits and
risk. One might ask "benefits to whom"?  ... and "risks" to whom?
Industry has been totally careless in monitoring the related
health problems.  An impartial opinion is essential.

     It is important to note here that there are controversial
treatments for MCS, just as there are controversial treatments
for any and all other diseases.  None of them is foolproof, but
someone does have to be the guinea pig.  Does it make it more
ethically moral when hospitals pay patients to be volunteers in
studies on new drugs?  Was the first heart transplant proven to
be-safe or experimental?  Is AZT 'scientifically proven" to be
effective and isn't it a toxic, dangerous drug?  What about
chemotherapy?  Doesn't it also harm the patient?  The solvents
and glues used in dental materials aren't even required to be
listed on medical records and there is literally no place a
dental patient experiencing adverse reactions can look to for
oversight or redress.  But, only those physicians dealing with
MCS treatment are being chastised.  Why?

     We must take a strong look at the long-term and synergistic
effects of Rx and over-the-counter drugs.  Physicians must take
more responsibility for their casual dispensing of drugs and not
leave it up to pharmaceutical computers whose sole purpose is to
prevent liability through disclosure methods.

     Those with MCS are desperate for "treatment" of any nature,
merely because they have been trained to believe (brainwashed)
there is a pill (or should be) for every ailment.  Even women
with breast cancer are out marching for a "cure".  How many of
them are encouraging research for prevention?  We have placed our
very lives in the hands of the pharmaceutical companies and it
can only get worse from here.

     MCS must be studied as its own entity.  Many other diseases
are related to exposure to toxic substances and it is only
through discovering these correlations that progress will be made
in other areas of disease as well.  Studies involving "field
work" of MCS are crucial to avoid unnecessary exposures.  Data
could be recorded by observation of the MCS patient during a
typical day or two.

     We have attached a copy of our definition of MCS which we
hope you will seriously consider for use as it very simply
defines and can be used by all as a baseline of research.  Please
see the first paragraph of the enclosed MCS/ADA Information
sheet.

     It is our hope that you will seriously consider our comments
and expand your research into more applicable areas.  We look
forward to your comments and those to whom we have furnished a
copy of this report.  It you have any questions or require
further information, please let us know.  Thank you very much for
the opportunity to comment.



     Toni Temple, Chair
     OHIO NETWORK FOR THE CHEMICALLY INJURED
     P.O. Box 29290
     Parma, Ohio 44129
     (440) 845-1888



CC:   President Bill Clinton
      Vice  President Al Gore
      U.S.  Senator Mike DeWine
      U.S.  Representative Sherrod Brown
      U.S.  Representative Joseph Kennedy
      U.S.  Representative Steve LaTourette
      Ohio  Governor's Council on People with Disabilities