5180.0: Wednesday, November 15, 2000 - 2:50 PM

Abstract #11949

The Koop Report controversy: Corporate influence in a public health debate

Charlotte Brody, RN, Co-Coordinator, Health Care Without Harm, Center for Health Environment and Justice, PO Box 6806, Falls Church, VA 22040, 703-237-2249, cbrody@essential.org

The safety of exposure to DEHP, a softener added to many vinyl medical devices, has been the subject of some discussion. A blue ribbon panel appointed by the American Council on Safety and Health, and chaired by C. Everett Koop, issued a report early on in the debate, finding "that vinyl toys and medical devices aren't harmful." This finding is in contrast with a review of the literature conducted by the coalition Health Care Without Harm, which found reasonable cause for concern. Using the Koop Report as a case study, this session will discuss how corporate influence may play a role in a public health debate, and the potential problems that can arise when no proof of harm is interpreted to mean "proof of no harm." The current status of national reviews of DEHP's toxicity, including the National Toxicology Program panel and FDA reviews, will also be discussed.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant will be able to: Describe ways in which corporate influence can shape a public health debate; and, Recognize the important difference between lack of data and proof of no harm

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.

The 128th Annual Meeting of APHA