The plastic in your home could literally be putting your heart at risk and here's how to avoid it
"Phthalates contribute to inflammation and systemic inflammation in the coronary arteries, which can accelerate existing disease and lead to acute events, including mortality," said Dr. Leonardo Trasande, who leads NYU Langone's environmental initiatives. Previous research has already associated phthalates with reproductive issues, such as lower testosterone levels in males, as well as with conditions like asthma and obesity. David Andrews from the Environmental Working Group emphasized the importance of the new findings in an email response. Meanwhile, the American Chemistry Council declined to comment directly but pointed to the efforts of its High Phthalates Panel to promote the safe use of certain phthalates. Phthalates are nearly unavoidable — they're present in countless products, from PVC pipes to personal care items. According to the CDC, people are exposed through contaminated air, food, and drinks.
The new study, published in eBioMedicine, examined the impact of Di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP) exposure across 200 global regions. It found that DEHP exposure contributed to 368,764 deaths worldwide in 2018 among those aged 55-64. Africa accounted for 30% of these deaths, while East Asia and the Middle East together made up another 25%. Lead researcher Sara Hyman noted that this marks the first global estimate of DEHP-related health consequences. A previous U.S.-focused study by Trasande's team suggested that phthalates may contribute to 91,000 to 107,000 premature deaths annually among Americans aged 55 to 64, with estimated economic losses between $40 billion and $47 billion each year. How to Reduce Your Exposure to Phthalates: Avoid plastic containers, especially when microwaving or washing them in dishwashers.
Choose unscented lotions and laundry detergents.
Use cleaning products without added fragrances.
Store food in glass, stainless steel, ceramic, or wooden containers.
Opt for fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables instead of canned goods.
Wash hands frequently to remove chemical residues.
Avoid air fresheners and plastics labeled with recycling codes No. 3, No. 6, and No. 7.
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