In January 2017 researchers from the USA published their review on human flame retardant chemical exposure, including concerns for thyroid abnormalities and cancer risk. Polybrominated diphenyl ethers have been in common use as flame retardant chemicals, which are known to be related to thyroid disease. However, the association appears to be both dose and life-stage dependent. Polybrominated diphenyl ethers have recently been phased out, but emerging data suggests that current common alternate flame retardant chemicals may be more potent thyroid disruptors than their predecessors, which is particularly concerning given increasing levels of exposure.
Hoffman K et al. Do flame retardant chemicals increase the risk for thyroid dysregulation and cancer? Curr Opin Oncol. 2017 Jan;29(1):7-13