A group of Connecticut mothers took part in a nationwide study involving dangerous chemicals -- and received startling results.

The recently-completed testing showed that regular household items like shower curtains and plastic bottles could be contaminating families with dangerous substances.

Laura Anderson, of Wethersfield, said that when she heard about a testing program to see if dangerous chemicals had invaded her body, she had to sign up.

"I'm always looking for a healthier life to live and a healthier life to provide to my family, and I thought, 'Gee, I'd kind of like to do this because I'd like to know,'" she said.

Channel 3 Eyewitness News reporter Eric Parker reported that urine and blood tests were performed on 30 women from seven states to determine whether everyday products affected their health.

Nancy Simcox, of Middlefield, was another volunteer who told Eyewitness News that the results were alarming.

"We expected there'd be something there, maybe not to the levels and how many," she said.

The chemicals known as phthalates, BPA and PDBEs were found in all of the women who participated. The chemicals are often found in common household items made of plastic and metals and pose dangerous health risks, including birth defects, cancer and asthma..

Both women told Eyewitness News that they have already switched from plastic cups and plates to glass and traditional dinnerware. They said that they hope others will take the time to learn more.

"Find the information about these three chemicals and what they're in and how you can try to avoid them," said Anderson.

Connecticut lawmakers said that they plan to try to ban the chemicals in the next legislative session.

For more information on the study, visit the Coalition for a Safe and Healthy Connecticut's Web site.

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