WebMD Medical News Laura J. Martin, MD Aug. 3, 2011 -- Some
child car safety seats may contain hazardous chemicals including
flame retardants, according to the fourth annual report by the
Ecology Center, an Ann Arbor, Mich.-based nonprofit
environmental organization. Researchers tested more than 150
2011-model infant, convertible, and booster car seats for the
presence of potentially harmful chemicals including brominated
flame retardants, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), lead, and heavy
metal allergens. These chemicals have been associated with
reproductive and developmental health problems and certain
cancers in animal and some human studies. The researchers note
that the tests were performed on a limited set of chemicals of
concern. Tests were not performed for certain other potentially
harmful chemicals such a chlorinated flame retardants (CFRs).
Some car seats such as the Graco Comfort Sport in Caleo are
virtually free of the toxic chemicals tested, while others such
as the Britax Marathon 70in Jet Set contain