![]() KQED (blog) | Flame Retardants Linked to Children's Health Issues KQED (blog) A new study finds flame retardants — chemicals used to make household items more fire resistant — are linked to lower IQs and poorer coordination in children. The UC Berkeley study focuses on the effects of Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs). Flame Retardants in Furniture, Carpets Might Affect Kids' Development |