Latest news with #DEHP
Yahoo
9 hours ago
- Health
- Yahoo
These 7 Everyday Household Items Could Increase Your Risk Of Health Issues, Including Heart Disease
A new study suggests hundreds of thousands of deaths globally are linked to a certain phthalate chemical exposure (DEHP) in plastics. Specifically, they've been linked to cardiovascular-related deaths. DEHP is a type of phthalate, that is commonly added to plastics to make them more flexible. Here are some products where you might find them at home. Research has consistently shown that we should be wary of plastics—and that also goes for the chemicals used to make them, like phthalates. And while it's nearly impossible to fully avoid plastics in your day-to-day, a new study suggests you might want to try a little harder to limit how much you interact with the material, because it has been linked with serious heart issues. The study, which was published in the journal eBioMedicine, linked a specific type of phthalate called di-2-ethylhexylphthalate (DEHP) to cardiovascular-related deaths. Phthalates have been associated with a slew of other serious health complications, including endocrine disruption and fertility issues, by the way. Here's what the latest study found, plus what doctors recommend doing with this info. Meet the experts: Jamie Alan, PhD, an associate professor of pharmacology and toxicology at Michigan State University. Yu-Ming Ni, MD, cardiologist and lipidologist at MemorialCare Heart and Vascular Institute at Orange Coast Medical Center in Fountain Valley, CA. Cheng-Han Chen, MD, cardiologist and medical director of the Structural Heart Program at MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center in Laguna Hills, CA. Yanting Wang, MD, cardiologist and assistant professor of medicine at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. For the study, researchers analyzed data from the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, a global health research center, along with estimates of regional DEHP exposure. The researchers found that, in 2018, an estimated 356,238 deaths globally were linked to DEHP exposure. Those made up nearly 13.5 percent of all cardiovascular deaths in people between the ages of 55 and 64. Of those, 349,113 were linked to people using plastics. People in some areas of the world that have booming plastic industries saw more of an association than others. 'The findings underscore the need for urgent global and local regulatory interventions to [curb] mortality from DEHP exposure,' the researchers wrote in the conclusion. DEHP is a type of phthalate, and it's commonly added to plastics to make them more flexible, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). DEHP is a colorless liquid that is especially prevalent in vinyl materials, which may contain up to 40 percent DEHP, per the CDC. DEHP can also be found in a bunch of common goods you interact with regularly, including certain types of flooring, wall coverings, and even your shoes. It's important to note that the study is observational, meaning it didn't find that exposure to phthalates actually caused these cardiovascular deaths. Instead, it just found a link. 'There may be unknown factors that can explain this rise in death related to phthalates,' says Yu-Ming Ni, MD, cardiologist and lipidologist at MemorialCare Heart and Vascular Institute at Orange Coast Medical Center in Fountain Valley, CA. Still, it's entirely possible that phthalate exposure may raise the risk of cardiovascular disease and death, says Cheng-Han Chen, MD, cardiologist and medical director of the Structural Heart Program at MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center in Laguna Hills, CA. 'Previous studies have linked phthalates found in plastic to increased inflammation in the bloodstream as well as cardiometabolic disorders such as diabetes and obesity,' he points out. 'These problems could then lead to increased morbidity and mortality from heart disease.' However, Dr. Ni stresses that more research is needed. Some exposure to plastics, phthalates, and DEHP is bound to happen in the world we live in. "As with many chemicals that we are exposed to long-term, it's likely that the totally cumulative exposure over a lifetime is important," says Jamie Alan, PhD, an associate professor of pharmacology and toxicology at Michigan State University. So, she recommends doing that you can to limit your exposure. Experts singled out seven specific items that you should probably try to avoid, if you can: Plastic water bottles. Dr. Ni recommends focusing on reusable containers for liquids, like metal or ceramic water bottles. Certain shampoos. "If you find a phthalate-free shampoo that is affordable and that works, that can decrease exposure," Alan says. Plastic cookware. Putting plastic cookware, like plastic spatulas, in hot items raises the risk that phthalates will end up in your food, per Dr. Ni. Plastic utensils. Putting these products directly into your mouth raises your risk of exposure, Dr. Ni explains. Takeout containers. These are often made with plastic that can leach into your food, per Dr. Ni. Plastic food storage containers. Like plastic takeout containers, these can also result in phthalate exposure for your food, especially if you heat them up, Alan says. Other personal care products. Phthalates show up in a range of personal care products, making it important to look for products like soaps and hairspray without the chemicals, Alan says. (Labels will typically say "phthalate-free.") Of course, this stuff is everywhere, making it hard to avoid entirely. "My best advice is to reduce exposure where it makes sense," Alan says. It's also important to try to cut back on how many plastic products you buy. "Based on the available evidence, it is important we strive to limit the amount of plastic produced and ensure proper disposal for both environmental and biological health," says Yanting Wang, MD, cardiologist and assistant professor of medicine at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. You Might Also Like Jennifer Garner Swears By This Retinol Eye Cream These New Kicks Will Help You Smash Your Cross-Training Goals
Daily Mirror
27-05-2025
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Doctor says three toxic household items 'must be thrown away immediately'
A gastroenterologist, Dr Saurabh Sethi, has highlighted the three home items that he claims are the most noxious and insists they should be immediately discarded for health concerns. Topping his list are scented candles. He remarked: "These contain phthalates, which are known to disrupt hormone levels,and cause respiratory issues." Choosing unscented or natural options is better, according to Dr Sethi, who recommends: "Opt for unscented or natural candles made from soy or beeswax." His warning extends to plastic cutting boards too; he asserts: "These can degrade over time, releasing microplastics into your food, which can accumulate in the body. Switch to a wooden one to minimise risk." Lastly, Dr Sethi warns against scratched or damaged non-stick pans, stating: "These contain PFAs, which have been linked to high blood pressure, cholesterol and reproductive issues", reports the Mirror. He advises: "Damaged pans can release these particles into your food. So make sure to either replace these pans as soon as they are scratched or chipped. Or replace those with safer alternatives, such as stainless steel or cast iron." For context, phthalates (pronounced thal-ates) are chemical compounds often added to plastics like polyvinyl chloride (PVC) to enhance their flexibility, strength, and longevity. Frequently called plasticizers, they are common not only in plastics but also in personal care products, household goods, medical instruments, and food packaging. Phthalates, known as endocrine disruptors, can meddle with the body's hormone systems. They have the potential to mimic or block hormones such as estrogen and testosterone, leading to: Inhaling them (like from scented products) may result in: Animal studies suggest some phthalates may encourage tumour development. Some health agencies classify DEHP as possibly carcinogenic to humans. Microplastics are minuscule plastic particles often invisible to the naked eye - and they are considered harmful for both environmental and human health reasons. Microplastics can transport toxic chemicals, either from the plastic itself or absorbed from the environment. These include: These chemicals may interfere with: PFAS stands for Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances - a large group of human-made chemicals (over 10,000 types) used since the 1940s to make products resistant to water, oil, heat, and stains. PFAS, often dubbed "forever chemicals" due to their persistent nature in the environment and human body, are commonly found in a plethora of household items and materials. These forever chemicals make their way into numerous products we encounter daily, such as: Research has highlighted worrying health implications associated with PFAs exposure:
Daily Mirror
27-05-2025
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Doctor says toxic household items 'must be thrown away', and you have all three
The common household objects are used every day by millions of people but are packed with dangerous chemicals A doctor has named what he says are the three most toxic household items that 'must be thrown away immediately'. Dr Saurabh Sethi, a gastroenterologist, has urged people to take action as soon as possible. First on the list from Dr Sethi is scented candles. He said: 'These contain phthalates, which are known to disrupt hormone levels,and cause respiratory issues. 'Opt for unscented or natural candles made from soy or beeswax.' Dr Sethi lists plastic cutting boards as being a danger. He says: 'These can degrade over time, releasing microplastics into your food, which can accumulate in the body. Switch to a wooden one to minimise risk.' And last on the list? Scratched or chipped non-stick pans. Dr Sethi explains: 'These contain PFAs, which have been linked to high blood pressure, cholesterol and reproductive issues. 'Damaged pans can release these particles into your food. So make sure to either replace these pans as soon as they are scratched or chipped. Or replace those with safer alternatives, such as stainless steel or cast iron.' Phthalates (pronounced thal-ates) are a group of chemical compounds commonly used to make plastics — especially polyvinyl chloride (PVC) — more flexible, durable, and harder to break. They are often referred to as plasticizers. In addition to plastics, phthalates are also found in personal care products, household items, medical devices, and even food packaging. Phthalates are endocrine disruptors, meaning they can interfere with hormone systems in the body. They can mimic or block hormones like estrogen and testosterone, leading to: Altered reproductive development Reduced sperm count and quality Early puberty in girls Hormone-related cancers (potentially) Some phthalates, like DEHP and DBP, have been linked to: Birth defects Miscarriages Developmental delays in children Testicular toxicity in animals Exposure through inhalation (like from scented products) may cause: Asthma and allergy symptoms Potential immune system effects in children Animal studies suggest some phthalates may promote tumour development. DEHP is classified as possibly carcinogenic to humans by some health agencies. Microplastics are tiny plastic particles often invisible to the naked eye — and they are considered unhealthy for both environmental and human health reasons. Microplastics can carry toxic chemicals, either from the plastic itself or absorbed from the environment. These include: Phthalates and Bisphenol A (BPA) – endocrine disruptors Heavy metals – like lead or cadmium Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) – like PCBs or DDT These chemicals may interfere with: Hormonal balance Reproductive health Neurological development Immune function PFAS stands for Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances — a large group of human-made chemicals (over 10,000 types) used since the 1940s to make products resistant to water, oil, heat, and stains. They're sometimes called "forever chemicals" because they don't break down easily in the environment or the human body. PFAS are used in a wide variety of products, including: Non-stick cookware (e.g., Teflon) Waterproof and stain-resistant fabrics (e.g., Gore-Tex, Scotchgard) Fast food wrappers, microwave popcorn bags Cosmetics (especially long-wear or waterproof types) Firefighting foams Carpets, upholstery, and paints PFAs have been linked to: Interference with thyroid function Developmental delays in infants and children Disruption of reproductive hormones Increased risk of kidney and testicular cancer Elevated cholesterol levels Liver damage Suppressed immune function Reduced response to vaccinations (especially in children) Low birth weight Pre-eclampsia Fertility issues
Observer
17-05-2025
- Health
- Observer
A new study raises alarms about plastics and heart disease
The news made for an alarming headline: Research showed that common chemicals in plastics were associated with 350,000 heart disease deaths worldwide in 2018. The statistic came from a study published last week in the journal eBioMedicine. The authors, a group of researchers at New York University's Grossman School of Medicine, estimated that roughly 13% of cardiovascular deaths among 55- to 64-year-olds worldwide that year could be attributed to phthalates, which are used in food packaging, shampoo, toys, and more. Research on the effect of phthalates on cardiovascular disease is still emerging, but their link to metabolic risk factors like obesity suggests they could play a role. While experts agree that phthalates are harmful, they cautioned that the study relied on complex statistical modeling and a series of assumptions and estimates that make it difficult to determine how many deaths might be linked to the chemicals. 'This is an early step of trying to understand the magnitude of the problem,' said Dr. Mark Huffman, a cardiologist and a co-director of the global health center at WashU Medicine in St. Louis. But, he added, there's a need for far more studies to understand the relationship between phthalates and heart health, and what other factors might come into play. The Background Phthalates are found in personal care products such as shampoos and lotions, as well as in food containers and packaging. It's possible to ingest them through food, absorb them through the skin from products containing them, or breathe them in as dust. Studies have shown that phthalates are endocrine disrupters, meaning that they can interfere with our hormones. They have been associated with negative effects on reproductive health, pregnancy,y and birth issues. Some studies have shown an association between phthalates and cardiovascular disease, but there isn't strong evidence to show that the chemicals directly cause heart issues, said Sung Kyun Park, a professor of epidemiology and environmental sciences at the University of Michigan School of Public Health. There is evidence that phthalates increase the risk of metabolic disorders like obesity and Type 2 diabetes, which can cause cardiovascular disease. One way phthalates may do this is by increasing oxidative stress — cell and tissue damage that happens when there are too many unstable molecules in the body — and by promoting inflammation, said Dr. Leonardo Trasande, senior author of the new paper and a professor of pediatrics and population health at NYU. The Research In the latest study, researchers attempted to quantify global cardiovascular deaths attributable specifically to one type of phthalate, known as DEHP. One of the most widely used and studied phthalates, DEHP, is found in vinyl products including tablecloths, shower curtains and flooring. The researchers relied on estimates from previous research for several measures: phthalate exposures, the risk of such exposures on cardiovascular deaths and the global burden of cardiovascular disease. They then calculated the share of deaths attributable to phthalate exposures in different countries, Trasande said. The Middle East, South Asia, East Asia, and the Pacific accounted for nearly three-quarters of these deaths. The Limitations This was an observational study that showed a correlation between estimated exposure to the chemical and disease at the population level. Experts said that the methods used were not unusual for studies that model global disease, but that such studies come with caveats. For example, Huffman said, the estimates from the literature that the authors relied on in their calculations may themselves have incorporated some bias or confounding variables, such as socioeconomic status or dietary behaviors, that could relate both to plastic exposure and to cardiovascular disease rates. 'A pretty important part of the result of the model is what you put into the model,' Huffman said. The study also relied on an earlier analysis by Trasande to estimate the risk of cardiovascular death from phthalate exposure, after controlling for other known risk factors. But that paper only examined U.S. patients, which means it might not be possible to generalize the results to a global population, where dietary habits, cigarette smoke exposure, physical activity, and other cardiovascular risk factors may vary. What's Next What's clear from the study, experts said, is that we need more research on phthalate exposure and the associated health risks. Though it would be ethically impossible and impractical to do a classic randomized trial, in which one group of people was exposed to phthalates and others were not, and they were followed for many years, other types of studies could help more clearly establish a link. One way, Park said, would be to have researchers recruit a large, representative sample of patients, measure their levels of exposure, and follow them for years, perhaps until death. Huffman suggested it would also be worthwhile to try out strategies that might reduce exposure levels and then measure any changes in health outcomes. Tracey Woodruff, director of the program on reproductive health and the environment at the University of California, San Francisco, said that despite the uncertainties in the estimates of the current paper, it is clear that phthalates can increase the risks of preterm birth, reproductive issues, and metabolic disorders. To her, the findings only add to the list of reasons to reduce the amount of phthalates in the supply chain. This article originally appeared in
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Business Standard
17-05-2025
- Health
- Business Standard
Study flags chemical contamination risk to endangered Gangetic dolphins
A scientific study has revealed alarming levels of toxic chemicals in the Ganga river, threatening the health and survival of the endangered Gangetic dolphins. Published in the journal 'Heliyon', the study by the Wildlife Institute of India found that these freshwater mammals are being exposed to a hazardous cocktail of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) through their diet. The researchers analysed the dietary exposure risks of 39 EDCs in fish species consumed by Gangetic dolphins. The findings indicate significant bioaccumulation of industrial pollutants such as di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) and di-n-butyl phthalate (DnBP) in the prey base of the dolphins. Residues of banned pesticides like DDT and Lindane (HCH) were also detected, pointing to poor enforcement of environmental regulations in the Ganga basin. The Gangetic dolphin population has declined by over 50 per cent since 1957, and their range has shrunk by nearly a quarter, despite being designated as India's national aquatic animal. With only five species of river dolphins left globally, all of them threatened, the study warned that India could risk a repeat of the Yangtze River tragedy, where a similar species went extinct due to unchecked human activities. The study attributes the contamination to several sources: runoff from agriculture, untreated industrial effluents from the textile sector, vehicular emissions, poor solid waste management, and rising tourism in ecologically sensitive areas. The effects of EDCs are particularly worrisome as they can disrupt hormonal systems and reproductive functions in mammals, and persist in the ecosystem for long periods. Although toxicity risk quotients based on standard values were found to be low, when analysed against the reference dose --? a more realistic measure of exposure risk --? the dolphins were at a high risk from seven key pollutants -- DEHP, DnBP, DDT, arsenic, mercury, cadmium, and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). The study recommended the urgent inclusion of these chemicals in dolphin conservation-monitoring programmes and calls for a scientifically informed national framework to assess and regulate chemical contamination in river ecosystems. The Gangetic dolphin is protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, but the study stresses that protection on paper must translate into actionable policy and pollution control if the species is to survive. The research from last year was among several key documents unveiled on a new portal launched by the Ministry of Jal Shakti to promote access to ecological data and conservation insights.
