NUM Women’s Structure Alarmed by UFS Research Linking Sanitary Products to Harmful Chemicals; Demands Urgent Accountability

The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) Women’s Structure expresses its grave concern following research published by the University of the Free State (UFS) in the Science of the Total Environment journal. The study reports that several sanitary pads and pantyliners tested contain at least three endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs), posing a direct threat to the health and well-being of women and girls across South Africa.

As an organization that actively distributes sanitary products to impoverished communities, the NUM Women’s Structure is deeply troubled by these findings. The potential for these chemicals to cause hormonal disorders, infertility, and cancers is a violation of the fundamental right to health and bodily integrity.

“The pursuit of profit must never override the right to life and the dignity of women,” says Nthabiseng Mashiteng, NUM Women’s Structure National Secretary. “We welcome the UFS study and call for immediate, transparent investigations to hold manufacturers accountable.”

A Call for Multi-Sectoral Intervention

The NUM Women’s Structure calls on the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC), the Commission for Gender Equality (CGE), the National Consumer Commission (NCC), the Department of Health, and the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities to collaborate urgently. We demand a formal accountability process to protect the constitutional rights of women and girls.

Demands for Safety and Accessibility

Given the high levels of unemployment and poverty in our country, the NUM Women’s Structure reiterates its demand for free and safe sanitary products for all. We further advise women to prioritize products certified under the OEKO-TEX Standard 100 or other verified safe alternatives where possible.

The health and safety of our members remain our primary responsibility. We will not remain silent while the most vulnerable members of our society are exposed to preventable health risks.

For more information, please contact:

Nthabiseng Mashiteng NUM National Women’s Structure Secretary Cell: 072 073 3936

The National Union of Mineworkers
7 Rissik Street.
Cnr Frederick Johannesburg
Tel: 011 377 2111 Cell: 083 809 3257
Twitter: @Num_Media

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/NUM/10086002340216