Multiple chemical sensitivity: pursuit of a scientific consensus, need for a public health response

Abstract

On the international scene, the Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) is defined, by several experts, as a multisystem syndrome that develops following chronic exposures to low doses of common chemical contaminants. Its general characteristics are, however, the object of conflicting opinions and a source of debate and research aimed at the correct nosological and therapeutic framework. In the face of a potentially debilitating trend, both in the work and in the economical and social sphere, the scientific community has not found an agreement. This problem leads some patients and their associations to periodically claim some requests. The syndrome is also taken into consideration at a political level, especially due to the close connection with the problems related to environmental pollution and to any necessary measures in the field of control and prevention. For these reasons we believe it is appropriate for a widespread surveillance network to be set up in Italy, capable of intercepting possible cases, analyzing them at a multidisciplinary level, and following their evolution.