The Nation - News from Sept. 6, 1985

Health officials said nearly 15 million American workers may be exposed to substances known or suspected to cause birth defects and called the problem widespread and serious. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health said in Atlanta that 9 million of the workers are exposed to radio frequency-microwave radiation used for heating and drying in such industries as automobiles, textiles, furniture and rubber. An additional 2 million potentially are exposed to ethylene glycols used in solvents, antifreeze, aviation fuels, brake fluids, paints and paint thinners. Others are exposed to such substances as formaldehyde and lead.