Ask a tox doc: What’s the big deal with plastic?

March 19, 2026.Reading time 7 minutes.

It’s hard to avoid plastic. So many common objects that we use regularly have plastic, from toothbrushes and soap bottles to juice cartons and kids’ toys.

I sat down with Dr. Shirlee Tan, a toxicologist with Public Health, to chat about plastic and find out: Is it a concern for our health? And if so, how can we protect ourselves?

Ask the Tox Doc: How can I protect myself from harmful chemicals?

July 7, 2025.Reading time 6 minutes.

We come in contact with a lot of chemicals in our daily lives, including the products we use to shower, the food we eat, and the air we breathe during our commutes.

What can we do to limit PFAS? A comic explains (part 3).

November 26, 2024.Reading time 3 minutes.

Mom reading a label on a bottle. She pushes a shopping cart with a preschooler sitting in it.

Leer en español In this final comic in a series about a group of chemicals known as “Forever Chemicals” or PFAS, we share ways that Public Health – Seattle & King County, King County residents, and organizations are mobilizing for legislation and regulations to protect our communities from PFAS. Comic by the Lead and Toxics […]

How can we reduce exposure to PFAS? A comic strip explains (part 2).

November 19, 2024.Reading time 6 minutes.

Two women shopping for cast iron pans at a thrift shop.

In a comic strip, we explain what concrete actions you can take to protect your family from PFAS, or “forever chemicals.”

What are PFAS and why are they harmful? A comic strip explains.

November 12, 2024.Reading time 4 minutes.

A toxicologist talking to a father holding the toddler

PFAS are a group of chemicals commonly referred to as “forever chemicals” that are common in a wide variety of every-day products. In this comic strip, our toxicologist explains how they can have serious health issues.

Ask the Toxics Docs: Tips to choose safer personal care products and cosmetics

October 22, 2024.Reading time 10 minutes.

Store shelf with personal care products in many colors.

How many personal care products do you use every day? From toothpaste to makeup and shampoo, the number can add up fast. This is a concern because some cosmetics and personal care products contain dangerous chemicals that can harm our health.