What is MCS?

Multiple chemical sensitivity refers to an unusually severe sensitivity to many common chemicals or toxicants. These can include solvents, VOCs, perfumes, petrol, diesel, smoke, and other chemicals, as well as common allergens such as pollen, dust, and pet dander.

Patient reactions to MCS can vary in severity and symptoms, making it difficult to screen for and treat. Currently, the best course of action for sufferers is to note triggering exposures and avoid them. However, this is made more challenging, as many patients are affected by multiple chemicals and new chemicals may lead to a reaction at any point.

Current research

The understanding of MCS is still evolving. Current research delves into related chemical intolerances, physiologic and psychological mechanisms for MCS, demographics, prevalence and distribution of MCS among the population; and new technological advances that may enable more effective treatment of MCS.

Further resources

For more information on MCS, including the latest in education efforts and ongoing research, please see:

University-based Research Programs

• Chiba University Center for Preventive Medical Sciences Chemiless Town Project

• Hoffman Chemical Intolerance Research Program at the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio

• Hoffman Program on Chemicals and Health at Harvard University

Education, Outreach, and Advocacy Resources

• Disability Accommodation Resources for MCS from the University of Washington

• Chemical Injury Information Network

• Chemical Sensitivity Foundation

• Environmental Sensitivities Research Team

• Hayward Score

• Indoor Air Pollution: An Introduction for Health Professionals US EPA

• Ann McCampbell, MD

• MCS-aware

• Anne Steinemann, PhD

For clinicians and clinician/scientists seeking additional context to ensure appropriate diagnosis and care, please refer to:

• WebMD: Multiple Chemical Sensitivity

• Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine: Multiple Chemical Sensitivity

  Review of the State of the Art in Epidemiology, Diagnosis, and Future Perspectives

• PLOS One: The Brief Environmental Exposure and Sensitivity Inventory (BREESI)

• The Quick Environmental Exposure and Sensitivity Inventory (QEESI)

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