Tests Try to Find Effects of Chemical

By KORY DODD

HIGH POINT — Do you live near a foam plant? If so, the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services wants to check you out.

The department is conducting a study on whether toluene diisocyanate, a chemical used to make household products, including foam for furniture cushions, is present in some communities and how it has affected residents.

The chemical can cause asthma and other respiratory problems in workers, but little is known about the effects of exposures outside plants. The chemical is released into the environment during some manufacturing and painting activities, according to state officials.

The study, conducted with the help of the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, will examine 250 people in communities close to sources of the chemical and compare them with an equal number of people living farther away.

By comparing the results from the two types of communities, officials said they will be able to look for patterns of community exposure and health. They are not focusing on the health of individuals.

Officials are looking for residents in Asheboro, High Point, Pleasant Garden and McLeansville to participate in the study in mid- July.

Participants will have to give blood and answer questions about their respiratory health. Some may have an air-testing monitor placed in their yard.

Volunteers will receive copies of all test results and will be paid for their time. Test results are confidential.

Residents are invited to a series of information sessions to learn more about the study.

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