Latest news with #GrossmanSchoolofMedicine
Epoch Times
26-05-2025
- Health
- Epoch Times
Weight-Loss Drugs May Lower Cancer Risk in Diabetic Patients, Study Finds
A new study suggests that popular weight-loss medications may do more than just help with diabetes and obesity—they could also modestly reduce the risk of developing certain cancers among adults with diabetes, according to Potential Cancer Prevention Researchers analyzed health records from more than 170,000 U.S. adults with both obesity and diabetes, focusing on those treated with glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists—drugs known for managing blood sugar and, more recently, for aiding weight loss. The study compared these patients to a similar group taking dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4) inhibitors, a class of diabetes drugs not associated with weight loss. The study found that after four years, patients using GLP-1 receptor agonists showed a 7 percent lower risk of developing any of 14 obesity-related cancers and an 8 percent lower risk of death from any cause, compared to those taking DPP-4 inhibitors. The lower cancer risk was more pronounced for colorectal cancers, with 16 percent fewer colon cancer cases and 28 percent fewer rectal cancer cases among the GLP-1 group. Study Details and Methodology The research, led by Lucas A. Mavromatis, a medical student at New York University's Grossman School of Medicine, used data from 43 U.S. health systems collected between 2013 and 2023. Study participants included adults with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher and a diagnosis of diabetes. Each group—those on GLP-1 receptor agonists and those on DPP-4 inhibitors—consisted of 85,015 patients, matched with similar characteristics to reduce bias. 'This trial raises an intriguing hypothesis: that the increasingly popular GLP-1 medications used to treat diabetes and obesity might offer some benefit in reducing the risk of developing cancer,' said Dr. Robin Zon, president of ASCO. 'Though this trial does not establish causation, it hints that these drugs might have a preventative effect. Future research is needed to validate these findings, including in patients who do not have diabetes.' Obesity, Diabetes, and Cancer Risk Obesity is a common risk factor for at least 14 types of cancer, including cancers of the esophagus, colon, rectum, stomach, liver, gallbladder, pancreas, kidney, post-menopausal breast, ovary, endometrium, thyroid, as well as multiple myeloma and meningiomas, according to ASCO. With the prevalence of obesity and diabetes rising, more people are being prescribed GLP-1 receptor agonists. Up to 12 percent of Americans are using such medications, according to the study and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Related Stories 2/21/2025 4/11/2025 GLP-1 receptor agonists work by mimicking hormones that regulate appetite and fullness, helping patients lose weight and control blood sugar. However, the medication can cause side effects such as nausea and stomach pain, and it does not work for everyone. Gender Differences and Next Steps The study found that the protective effect of GLP-1 receptor agonists was most evident in women, who experienced an 8 percent lower risk of obesity-related cancer and a 20 percent lower risk of death from any cause compared to women on DPP-4 inhibitors. The difference was not statistically significant in men, however, and researchers said they could not explain the gender disparity. Lead author Mavromatis highlighted a need for further research on GLP-1 receptor agonists. 'Our results suggest they may modestly cut the chance of developing certain cancers—especially cancers of the colon and rectum—and reduce rates of death due to all causes. These data are reassuring, but more studies are required to prove causation,' he said in the press release. The research team plans to continue monitoring patients for longer periods and hopes to study the cancer risk for people who take such agonists but do not have diabetes. The study was funded by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases of the National Institutes of Health and will be presented at the ASCO Annual Meeting in Chicago from May 30 to June 3. From
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
Economic Times
30-04-2025
- Health
- Economic Times
Found in shampoo and curtains, this toxic chemical in your home could be killing you: Study warns
A new global study has linked the plastic additive di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP), commonly found in household items and personal care products, to over 356,000 cardiovascular-related deaths in 2018 among people aged 55 to 64. The research, published in eBiomedicine, highlights how phthalates can trigger inflammation in the heart, contributing to fatal outcomes. Regions like South Asia, East Asia, and the Middle East accounted for nearly 75% of the deaths, with India reporting the highest toll. Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Cardiovascular Inflammation and Hormonal Disruption Global and Economic Impact Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Minimizing Daily Exposure A groundbreaking global study has drawn attention to the significant health risks posed by phthalates—synthetic chemicals found in many common plastic products. Researchers from New York University's Grossman School of Medicine have linked exposure to one particular phthalate, Di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP), to over 356,000 deaths from cardiovascular disease in 2018 among people aged 55 to used to make plastics more flexible, is found in a broad range of consumer goods including food packaging, vinyl flooring, shower curtains, shampoo, cosmetics, and even medical devices like IV bags and catheters. The study, published in The Lancet eBiomedicine, examined exposure levels in 200 countries and territories using urine samples to estimate how much of the broken-down chemical had entered individuals' bodies. The results were then compared to global cardiovascular death statistics from the Institute for Health Metrics and to senior study author Dr. Leonardo Trasande, DEHP contributes to 'inflammation and systemic inflammation in the coronary arteries,' which may worsen existing heart conditions and potentially result in fatal outcomes. Dr. Trasande also emphasized the role of phthalates as endocrine disruptors, interfering with hormones that regulate essential biological functions such as metabolism and heart are already well known for their link to male reproductive issues, including reduced sperm count, testosterone disruption, and genital abnormalities. They have also been associated with asthma, obesity, diabetes, and certain cancers. DEHP, in particular, is listed under California's Proposition 65 for its potential to cause reproductive harm and burden of DEHP-related cardiovascular deaths is not evenly distributed. India reported the highest number of such deaths—over 103,000—followed by China and Indonesia. Collectively, regions including the Middle East, South Asia, East Asia, and the Pacific accounted for nearly 75% of these fatalities. These areas also face heightened exposure due to rapid industrialization and fewer regulatory restrictions on plastic the study did not establish direct causation, it is considered the first to provide a global estimate of cardiovascular deaths linked to phthalate exposure. Researchers estimate the economic cost of these deaths to range from $510 billion to over $3.7 trillion due to lost how prevalent phthalates are, avoiding them entirely may be difficult. However, experts suggest several practical steps to reduce exposure. Consumers are advised not to microwave food in plastic containers, as heat can cause the chemicals to leach into food. Using glass, stainless steel, or ceramic containers for food storage is recommended. Additionally, people should opt for fragrance-free personal care and cleaning products, avoid air fresheners, and check plastic recycling labels—steering clear of products marked with codes 3, 6, and 7.'Reducing your use of ultraprocessed foods can reduce the levels of chemical exposures,' said Dr. Trasande, who also leads the NYU Center for the Investigation of Environmental stressed the urgency for stricter global regulations on DEHP and other phthalates, especially in regions with high usage and weak chemical oversight. 'By highlighting the connection between phthalates and a leading cause of death across the world, our findings add to the vast body of evidence that these chemicals present a tremendous danger to human health,' stated lead author Sara Hyman.
Time of India
30-04-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Found in shampoo and curtains, this toxic chemical in your home could be killing you: Study warns
A groundbreaking global study has drawn attention to the significant health risks posed by phthalates—synthetic chemicals found in many common plastic products. Researchers from New York University's Grossman School of Medicine have linked exposure to one particular phthalate, Di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP), to over 356,000 deaths from cardiovascular disease in 2018 among people aged 55 to 64. #Pahalgam Terrorist Attack A Chinese shadow falls on Pahalgam terror attack case probe How India can use water to pressure Pakistan Buzzkill: How India can dissolve the Pakistan problem, not just swat it DEHP, used to make plastics more flexible, is found in a broad range of consumer goods including food packaging, vinyl flooring, shower curtains, shampoo, cosmetics, and even medical devices like IV bags and catheters. The study, published in The Lancet eBiomedicine, examined exposure levels in 200 countries and territories using urine samples to estimate how much of the broken-down chemical had entered individuals' bodies. The results were then compared to global cardiovascular death statistics from the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation. Cardiovascular Inflammation and Hormonal Disruption According to senior study author Dr. Leonardo Trasande, DEHP contributes to 'inflammation and systemic inflammation in the coronary arteries,' which may worsen existing heart conditions and potentially result in fatal outcomes. Dr. Trasande also emphasized the role of phthalates as endocrine disruptors, interfering with hormones that regulate essential biological functions such as metabolism and heart health. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Join new Free to Play WWII MMO War Thunder War Thunder Play Now Undo Phthalates are already well known for their link to male reproductive issues, including reduced sperm count, testosterone disruption, and genital abnormalities. They have also been associated with asthma, obesity, diabetes, and certain cancers. DEHP, in particular, is listed under California's Proposition 65 for its potential to cause reproductive harm and cancer. Global and Economic Impact The burden of DEHP-related cardiovascular deaths is not evenly distributed. India reported the highest number of such deaths—over 103,000—followed by China and Indonesia. Collectively, regions including the Middle East, South Asia, East Asia, and the Pacific accounted for nearly 75% of these fatalities. These areas also face heightened exposure due to rapid industrialization and fewer regulatory restrictions on plastic production. While the study did not establish direct causation, it is considered the first to provide a global estimate of cardiovascular deaths linked to phthalate exposure. Researchers estimate the economic cost of these deaths to range from $510 billion to over $3.7 trillion due to lost productivity. Minimizing Daily Exposure Given how prevalent phthalates are, avoiding them entirely may be difficult. However, experts suggest several practical steps to reduce exposure. Consumers are advised not to microwave food in plastic containers, as heat can cause the chemicals to leach into food. Using glass, stainless steel, or ceramic containers for food storage is recommended. Additionally, people should opt for fragrance-free personal care and cleaning products, avoid air fresheners, and check plastic recycling labels—steering clear of products marked with codes 3, 6, and 7. 'Reducing your use of ultraprocessed foods can reduce the levels of chemical exposures,' said Dr. Trasande, who also leads the NYU Center for the Investigation of Environmental Hazards. Researchers stressed the urgency for stricter global regulations on DEHP and other phthalates, especially in regions with high usage and weak chemical oversight. 'By highlighting the connection between phthalates and a leading cause of death across the world, our findings add to the vast body of evidence that these chemicals present a tremendous danger to human health,' stated lead author Sara Hyman.
NDTV
30-04-2025
- Health
- NDTV
This Common Chemical Found In Homes Linked To More Than 350,000 Heart Disease Deaths
Exposure to phthalates, chemicals commonly found in household plastics, may have contributed to over 356,000 cardiovascular-related deaths in 2018, according to a new study. The Middle East, South Asia, East Asia, and the Pacific regions collectively bore about 75% of the global death total attributed to phthalate exposure. Researchers at New York University's Grossman School of Medicine estimated that about 13% of cardiovascular deaths in people aged 55-64 worldwide could be linked to phthalates. "By highlighting the connection between phthalates and a leading cause of death across the world, our findings add to the vast body of evidence that these chemicals present a tremendous danger to human health," lead author Sara Hyman, an associate research scientist at New York University's Grossman School of Medicine, said in a statement. The NYU Langone Health team specifically studied di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP), a phthalate used to make products like food containers and medical equipment more flexible. Previous research showed that DEHP exposure can trigger an overactive immune response in heart arteries, increasing the risk of heart attack or stroke. The study estimated that DEHP exposure contributed to 356,238 global deaths in 2018, accounting for nearly 13.5% of heart disease deaths among people aged 55-64. This finding aligns with previous research linking phthalates to over 50,000 premature deaths annually among older Americans, primarily due to heart conditions. Counties with the highest DEHP-associated deaths also had booming plastics industries, the study noted. The study further highlighted India's significant exposure to phthalates due to its growing plastics industry and extensive use of PVC in consumer goods. India had the highest number of deaths linked to phthalate exposure, with 103,587 cases. What are Phthalates? Notably, phthalates are chemicals that make plastics more flexible and are also used in personal care products like lotions, shampoos, and perfumes to retain fragrances. They are also found in consumer products such as food storage containers, and children's toysDue to their widespread use, some researchers refer to them as "everywhere chemicals." Phthalates have raised concerns among scientists due to their potential health risks, including links to heart disease, obesity, and ADHD. Phthalates are also known as endocrine disruptors, meaning they can interfere with hormones in the body. Research has linked them to reproductive health issues, pregnancy complications, and birth problems. "What we know at present is that multiple chemicals used in plastic materials contribute to inflammation, hack our hormones, our natural signalling molecules that underlie basic biological functions, including metabolism and cardiovascular function. But this study and the study on which it's based don't exist in isolation. There is a larger body of studies from the laboratory, from animals and from humans that suggest that these chemicals contribute to heart disease," said lead researcher Leonardo Trasande, director of the NYU Centre for the Investigation of Environmental Hazards, US.
