As with many illnesses, children seem to be more sensitive to non-specific chemical reactions than adults. Although some of the documented cases suggest the individual developed MCS later in life, most of the case studies indicate that there were significant exposures to chemicals during childhood. There are several reasons that children seem more susceptible to chemical sensitivity than adults. Children's bodies do not have as many detoxifying enzymes as do adult bodies. Children spend more time outdoors which may expose them to a variety of chemicals in different media such as air, water, or soil.
Children breathe more air per pound of body weight than do adults.
Additionally, children eat and drink more than do adults per pound of body weight. Whether indoors or out, in the city or in the country, the mountains or the desert, all of us are continually exposed to chemicals. Both natural and synthetic, chemicals are a part of our lives. Most of us are unaware of our dependence upon chemicals and how much we often use them to make our lives easier. At home, at work, in recreation, or wherever, it is important to be aware of the chemicals that are likely to be present and to take appropriate precautions to minimize the use of the chemicals we control.