Exposure to Isocyanates May Lead To Gastrointestinal Irritation, Kidney Damage, and Liver Dysfunction

Isocyanates are man-made organic chemicals that react with other molecules in chemical reactions in a self-reacting manner. The purpose of using isocyanates is to create a barrier or "insulation" that is necessary for protecting the materials being protected. Isocyanates used in the manufacture of foam, flexible sheets, foam insulating materials, and thin films. Isocyanates have also been used in the development of polyurethane paints and polymer coatings.

Isocyanates can be used in the manufacture of foam stabilizers, liquid foams, and polyurethane foams. Other isocyanate-containing products that are used in the manufacture of foam are polyurethane resins, polyurethane coatings, and polyurethane plastics. Some isocyanates are used in the manufacture of foams for thermal energy efficiency, protection of metals, and antimicrobial activity. Isocyanates are used in the manufacture of plastics and polyurethane foams and are used in the production of cushions. Isocyanates are also used in the manufacture of insulation material. These organic chemicals can also be used in the manufacturing of pesticides and as preservatives.

Studies indicate that exposure to isocyanates may lead to gastrointestinal irritation, kidney damage, and liver dysfunction. The National Toxicology Program run by the United States Department of Health and Human Services has determined that exposure to isocyanates increases the risk of cancer. Occupational hypersensitivity pneumonitis is one of the rare diseases induced by isocyanate with very low frequency so far in the world. Certainly there are rare cases of isocyanate- hypersensitivity pneumonitis also in Japan. The toxic characteristics of isocyanates have been established through exposure studies in humans. Laboratory and epidemiological studies have concluded that isocyanates cause anemia, nephrotoxicity, and reproductive toxicity. Isocyanates have been suspected as an aggravation of renal tubular dysfunction and as a carcinogen.

Exposure to isocyanates has been demonstrated in clinical trials in animals. It causes renal tubular necrosis and cardiomyopathy. Studies with animals and human patients reveal very similar patterns of toxicity. Products that contain isocyanates have been banned in Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and Japan. However, they are still used in the manufacture of contact lenses, shampoos, toothpaste, deodorants, and cosmetics.