Are there differences in the health effects of single-substance flame retardants among different populations?

Whether there are differences in the health effects of single-substance flame retardants in different populations is a complex issue because the health effects of flame retardants are often affected by a combination of factors, including but not limited to the type of flame retardant, exposure levels, exposure routes, and individual physiological and genetic characteristics. Flame retardants play an important role in reducing the risk of fire, but some of their chemicals may have potential effects on human health. These effects may vary across populations.
child:

Particularly Sensitive: Because children’s bodies and nervous systems are immature, they are relatively less tolerant to toxic chemicals. Therefore, the potential health effects of flame retardants on children may be more significant.
Nervous system effects: Research shows that flame retardants can affect the normal function and development of the nervous system, which may cause cognitive impairment, behavioral abnormalities and other problems. Children may be more susceptible to these effects due to vulnerabilities in their developing nervous systems.
Pregnant women and fetuses:

Potential risks: Pregnant women exposed to flame retardants during pregnancy may have potential risks to the development of the fetus and infants and young children after delivery. These risks include birth defects, delayed growth and development, low IQ, and impaired behavioral abilities.
Endocrine disruption: Flame retardants can interfere with the endocrine system and affect the normal secretion and regulation of hormones. This is particularly important for the health of pregnant women and their fetuses, as hormones play a key role in the normal development of the fetus.
Seniors:

Metabolic changes: As we age, our body's ability to metabolize and detoxify may change. Therefore, older adults may not metabolize and excrete flame retardants as efficiently as younger adults, thereby increasing potential health risks.
Chronic conditions: Older adults may have a variety of chronic conditions that may make them more susceptible to the health effects of flame retardants.
General population:

Long-term exposure: For the general population, long-term exposure to flame retardants may cause a series of health problems, such as respiratory diseases, endocrine system disorders, liver damage, etc. However, these effects may vary based on individual differences.
Influencing factors:

Type of flame retardant: Different types of flame retardants have different potential effects on human health. For example, organophosphate flame retardants (OPFRs) mainly affect the nervous system and endocrine system, while brominated flame retardants may cause endocrine disruption and reproductive system problems.
Exposure level: Exposure level is a key factor affecting the degree of health effects. High exposure levels can lead to more serious health problems.
Exposure routes: Flame retardants may enter the human body through breathing, eating, drinking, etc. Exposure through different routes may have different effects on health.

The health effects of single-substance flame retardants (or flame retardants) do vary among different populations. Sensitive groups such as children, pregnant women and fetuses may be more susceptible to the health effects of flame retardants. Therefore, when using flame retardants, their potential health risks need to be fully considered and measures taken to reduce exposure levels to protect human health. At the same time, it is also necessary to strengthen relevant research and supervision to more comprehensively evaluate the health effects of flame retardants and formulate corresponding policies and standards.