A University of Washington soccer coach documented over 200 athletes diagnosed with cancer after playing on artificial turf. Dr. Robert Whitfield explains this as cumulative toxic exposure over time, then recommends hand washing, showering after play, and keeping gear outside the home.
The University of Washington soccer coach compiled a list of over 200 athletes, mostly soccer players, diagnosed with cancer. The common thread: years on artificial turf. Yeah, let that sink in— artificial turf. My son just got back from Europe on Monday, and they have to, uh, many times train on turf. And I know it's bad on him. He's had multiple surgeries. But it's also a health risk, and I'm always concerned about that, especially with what I understand about toxic burden from the tests we do all the time. So, you know, artificial turf is more of a case study in how toxic burden can accumulate invisibly. The question isn't just, is one thing going to kill me? The question is, you know, what is the total cumulative burden? Am I exceeding my capability? So obviously, if your kids are playing on turf, that's a data point. First and foremost, I'll just say this: hand washing is always very critical because they always are, you know, touching their face and getting things in their mouth. When you get them home, leave all that garbage, you know, out on the porch or in the garage. You know, get them showered off and let them eat at home. Keep them hydrated.
