Toxic chemicals are prevalent in homes, according to a study of vacuum dust

• According to the Citizen's Environmental Coalition and the Learning Disabilities Association of New York, our homes are full of at least six dangerous chemicals.
• The study examined vacuum dust from 70 homes throughout seven states.
• According to the report, all 70 homes had evidence of the six chemicals.
• The chemicals have been linked to cancer, developmental disorders and according to doctors -- may even alter the hormone levels in young children.
• Sick of Dust report: Alkylphenols: found in laundry detergents, textiles, hair-coloring, pains and all-purpose cleaners.
• Organotin Compounds: Found in PVC, polyvinyl chlorid, water pipes, PVC food packing materials, glass coatings, polyurethane foams, and many other consumer products.
• Perfluorinated Organics: Used to make Teflon, Goretex and other oil-, water- and stain-resistant materials for nonstick frying pans, utensils, stove hoods, stain-proof carpets, furniture and clothes.
• Pesticides: apply in and around homes for controlling infestations of various insects and used in carpets.
• Pesticides include a wide range of chemicals.
• Phthalates: Used primarily in vinyl products such as shower curtains, raincoats, toys, furniture and flooding.
• Polybrominated dephenyl ethers: applied to textiles or incorporated into plastics, foams and electrical goods to prevent or slow the spread of fire.
• Group leaders said the chemicals come from everyday products, such as house ware and cleaners.
• They are asking for immediate legislation banning these products.
• "In the absence of the Federal Government stepping up to the plate, we urge the state government to take action on these compounds because they pose hazards to human health," said Dr. David Carpenter of the School of Public Health.