Latest news with #PVC
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
India Today
23-05-2025
- Health
- India Today
Heart attacks : Plastic takes a deadly toll
It's common knowledge that plastic is killing us slowly, but now there's proof that they even cause heart attacks. And India is the worst affected, accounting for almost a third of the global fatalities linked to DEHP-related cardiovascular diseases. And what is DEHP? Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate is part of plastic compounds known as phthalates, a group of synthetic chemicals used as plasticisers to increase flexibility and durability in plastics, particularly the popular PVC (polyvinyl chloride). DEHP is the most commonly used phthalate.
The Sun
22-05-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Debenhams is selling an ingenious product that adds instant privacy to your fence – and it's been slashed to just £7
DEBENHAMS is selling an ingenious product that adds instant privacy to your fence - and it's been slashed to just £7. So if you want to stop eagle-eyed neighbours peering into your garden this summer, then you've come to the right place and will need to check this out. 2 2 Not only is this handy buy super purse-friendly, but it's also durable and easy to clean. Debenhams Panel Slat Strips are very suitable for holding and keeping screens or fences in place for your garden. Made of high-quality PVC material, it is firm, durable, and UV resistant. With its price slashed to just £7.70 and with summer right around the corner, it's perfect for adding a modern vibe to your space, without having to break the bank. The high-street find is sure to make your garden more private and is much more affordable than forking out cash to build a new fence. According to Debenham bosses: "The installation of the cover is simple and fast, and it can be installed and disassembled quickly without tools. "It can meet your DIY ideas for the garden and add a moderb and personalized flavor to your outdoor space." It is made of PVC material and comes in the colour green and at this price is sure to be sold out soon - so you'll need to rush to get your hands on this bargain buy. Meanwhile, a bargain hunter has revealed the super simple way that they added instant privacy to their wooden fence. And as well as being great for glamming up fences, it'll also look gorgeous on a terrace or balcony too. I made a DIY fence for £68 with pallets from Facebook Marketplace - it gives more privacy & people say it's 'fantastic' Elsewhere a savvy shopper saved thousands making a DIY fence using free pallets and people say it 'looks mint'. And B&Q's £15 privacy fence will help shield your garden from nosy neighbours this spring – & you can easily put up yourself. It is an extremely purse-friendly purchase, and is made using eco materials that will elevate the look of your garden. However, a homeowner who was fed up of looking at their neighbour's "scruffy" garden has gone even better with their £13.99 solution. Rules on fences and trees Fences: Height Restrictions: In most areas, fences in front gardens should not exceed one metre in height without planning permission. For rear gardens, the limit is generally two metres. Shared Fences: If a fence is shared with a neighbour, both parties are typically responsible for its maintenance and any costs associated with repairs or replacement. Building Regulations: Ensure that any new fence complies with local building regulations and does not obstruct visibility for drivers or pedestrians. Trees: Ownership: Trees located on your property are your responsibility, including any damage they may cause. Conversely, trees on a neighbour's property are their responsibility. Overhanging Branches: You are entitled to trim branches that overhang into your property, but only up to the boundary line. The cut branches should be offered back to the tree owner. Protected Trees: Some trees are protected by Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). Check with your local council before undertaking any work on a tree, as unauthorised work can result in fines. Roots: If tree roots from a neighbour's tree cause damage to your property, you have the right to remove the roots. However, it is advisable to discuss this with your neighbour first to avoid disputes. Always consult your local council or a legal adviser for specific regulations and advice. They decided to have a look at privacy fence options, when they came across a budget-friendly idea during an Internet hunt. The four-metre roll of peeled reed forms a natural fence screening, which doesn't look out of place in a garden. Not only that but it takes just seconds to set up, and is durable enough to withstand some of the UK's windiest days.
Business Upturn
21-05-2025
- Business
- Business Upturn
Astral Q4 Results: Revenue up 3.44% YoY to Rs 1,681 crore, Net Profit down 1.43% YoY
By Aditya Bhagchandani Published on May 21, 2025, 17:19 IST Astral Ltd reported its Q4 FY25 financial results, posting a consolidated revenue of ₹1,681 crore, reflecting a 3.4% year-on-year growth from ₹1,625 crore in Q4 FY24. However, the net profit declined 4.9% YoY to ₹179 crore compared to ₹181.6 crore in the same quarter last year. Financial highlights (YoY): Revenue : ₹1,681 crore vs ₹1,625 crore (up 3.4%) EBITDA : ₹310.8 crore vs ₹301.6 crore (up 3.1%) EBITDA Margin : 18.5% vs 18.6% PBT : ₹236.4 crore vs ₹241 crore (down 2.0%) Net Profit : ₹178 crore vs ₹181 crore (down 1.8%) Basic EPS: ₹6.67 vs ₹6.76 (down 1.3%) Segment highlights: Plumbing Business: Revenue: ₹1,226.6 crore vs ₹1,225.2 crore (flat) EBITDA: ₹250.4 crore vs ₹250.2 crore (flat) Sales Volume: 67,692 MT vs 66,827 MT (up 1.3%) Paints and Adhesives: Revenue: ₹454.8 crore vs ₹399.9 crore (up 13.7%) EBITDA: ₹60.4 crore vs ₹51.4 crore (up 17.5%) Management commentary: Despite PVC price volatility and industry-wide headwinds, Astral managed to maintain margins and recorded consistent revenue growth. The company also expanded its production capacity and entered new segments like FirePro fittings and channel drain systems. A final dividend of ₹2.25 per share was announced. Disclaimer: The information provided is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial or investment advice. Stock market investments are subject to market risks. Always conduct your own research or consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions. Author or Business Upturn is not liable for any losses arising from the use of this information. Aditya Bhagchandani serves as the Senior Editor and Writer at Business Upturn, where he leads coverage across the Business, Finance, Corporate, and Stock Market segments. With a keen eye for detail and a commitment to journalistic integrity, he not only contributes insightful articles but also oversees editorial direction for the reporting team.
