Is artificial turf bad for us and our kids? How to navigate the turf wars.

Maxine Wallace/The Washington Post

An artificial turf field on a summer day is hotter than grass and asphalt. Here’s what to know about the debate over grass vs. turf.

Column by Michael J. Coren

Yale epidemiologist Vasilis Vasiliou won’t let any of his five children play on artificial turf fields.

His research on the infill for synthetic turf — typically ground-up tires — identified the presence of dozens of known carcinogens, hormone disrupters, toxic metals and phthalates. What’s really needed, he said, are rigorous studies showing the extent to which those chemicals find their way into young players’ bodies and what that might mean for their health over time.

Until then, Vasiliou said, “I would not recommend parents let their children play on there. Period.”

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