KUALA LUMPUR: The Health Ministry has assured the public that investigations will be carried out into claims of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in cosmetics and personal care products.
Its minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said that the ministry would take appropriate action to address the issue to prevent severe effects on public health.
"We will certainly take this issue seriously because ultimately, these products can affect public health, especially since EDCs have the potential to disrupt the hormonal system.
"The use of these products can have both acute and long-term effects, and we must pay attention to it. We will investigate thoroughly."
He was responding to calls made by the Penang Consumer Association (CAP) to regulate the content of EDCs in cosmetics and personal care products in the country.
CAP president Mohideen Kader emphasised the need for the government to promptly address this issue, urging regulatory bodies to take swift action through enforcement.
His call came after 32 samples of cosmetics and personal care products, including hand wash, body wash, deodorants, toothpaste, mouthwash, feminine wash and baby wipes, were found to contain EDCs.
The tests were conducted with the assistance of the Wonjin Institute for Occupational and Environmental Health in South Korea.
The study results were presented at a conference in Seoul by non-governmental organisations, including groups from Malaysia.
The study also discovered that Malaysia had the highest percentage of incorrect labelling of ingredients among eight countries surveyed, with more than half of the samples showing inaccurate details.
Parabens, a type of EDC, are commonly used in cosmetics to prevent spoilage. They help extend the shelf life of products by inhibiting the growth of bacteria and mould.
However, some studies suggest that they may interfere with hormones and can potentially be harmful, leading to fertility problems, adverse birth outcomes and even cancer. They can also cause skin irritation.
