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Event on 05 July, 2005

Parliamentary Inquiry into Multiple Chemical Sensitivity

ME/CFS SA has been advocating for the needs of people with MCS since 2003.

2003 - Motion in SA Parliament

MOTION:- MULTIPLE CHEMICAL SENSITIVITY

The Hon. SANDRA KANCK: I move:

That the Legislative Council requests the Social Development Committee to inquire into and report on Multiple Chemical Sensitivity, with particular reference to:–

I.

Which chemicals or chemical compounds are responsible for the majority of symptoms of Multiple Chemical Sensitivity and how exposure to them can be minimised;

II.

The effect of chemical exposure on human fertility;

III.

The comparative status in other countries of Multiple Chemical Sensitivity as a diagnosed medical condition;

IV.

Best practice guidelines in Australia and overseas for the handling of chemicals to reduce chemical exposure;

V.

Current chemical usage practices by Local Government and State Government Departments and changes that could be made to reduce chemical exposure to both workers and the public; and

VI.

The ways in which South Australians with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity might more effectively access sources of support through government agencies.

Passed unanimously, 9 July 2003


2004 - ME/CFS SA submission

MCS Inquiry Submission

23 August 2004


2005 - Parliament of South Australia Inquiry into Multiple Chemical Sensitivity

Twenty Second Report of the Social Development Committe

Executive Summary

Full Report

5 July 2005


2008 - Studies on Self-Reported Multiple Chemical Sensitivity in SA

The prevalence of Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) in South Australia is
unknown and was sought through population-based telephone surveys of
approximately 4000 adults. These surveys revealed a 1% self-reported MCS
prevalence but also a more general hypersensitivity prevalence of about
16%. Symptomology and symptom severity suggest a significant negative
impact of environmental chemicals in the community.

D James Fitzgerald
Scientific Services, Department of Health, Adelaide

Last edited: 09 April, 2022