Estudo from Universidade from Nova York Langone Health identified that two phthalates widely used in the manufacture of plastics are associated with approximately two million premature births and 74 thousand neonatal deaths in 2018. The compounds DEHP and DiNP, used as plasticizers to provide flexibility to materials, interfere with the endocrine system responsible for hormone production. Research led by Professor Leonardo Trasande estimated the global impact of these chemicals in the perinatal period, revealing a public health crisis that transcends national borders.
Phthalates act as endocrine disruptors, altering hormonal balance during fetal development. Mesmo small hormonal changes have significant effects on the growth and health of babies, increasing the risk of complications that could be avoided with stricter regulatory measures. Exposure occurs continuously and ubiquitously in modern life, particularly affecting pregnant women and young children who are more biologically vulnerable.
Presença widespread in everyday products
Phthalates appear in a wide variety of commonly used items that facilitate continuous absorption by the population. Children’s Brinquedos, food containers, vinyl flooring, shower curtains, and garden hoses often contain these plasticizers. Além also serve as fragrance fixatives in perfumes, hair gels, sprays, shampoos, soaps and body lotions, in addition to integrating plastic food packaging and hospital medical devices.
- Phthalates are easily released into the environment and the human body through multiple pathways.
- Exposure occurs through inhalation, ingestion and dermal contact in daily routines without awareness of the risk.
- Gestantes represent an especially vulnerable group due to placental transfer of these compounds.
- Crianças small children are particularly exposed through frequent contact with children’s toys and cosmetics.
Embalagens from foods release these substances over time or under certain conditions of use, such as microwave heating. Pisos vinyls and shower curtains release phthalates over time, contributing to their concentration in indoor air in homes. Closed Ambientes amplify the risk of prolonged inhalation, making homes spaces of continuous and uncontrollable exposure.
Mecanismo of harm to fetal development
DEHP and DiNP phthalates interfere with hormonal regulation and are associated with problems in reproductive, brain and immunological development. The Trasande team analyzed global data to quantify the impact of these chemicals on obstetric outcomes, combining biomonitoring information with birth and infant mortality statistics. Nos Estados Unidos, birth before 37 completed weeks of gestation is considered premature, and the research reinforced that exposure to these substances significantly increases this risk.
Previous Estudos from the same group had already linked phthalates to other adverse health consequences. In 2021, the investigation pointed to a possible relationship with between 91,000 and 107,000 premature deaths annually among Americans aged 55 to 64. The new analysis expands the scope to the perinatal period and reinforces the need for international attention to the topic, demonstrating that the impact of these chemicals crosses all age groups of the population.
Posição of industry and existing regulation
Representantes of American Chemistry Council commented specifically on DiNP, arguing that the risk assessment carried out by Agência of Proteção Ambiental of Estados Unidos concluded that the compound does not pose an unreasonable risk to the health of consumers, the general population or the environment. Não there was a direct statement about DEHP in the response released by the entity. Industry has advocated controlled use of these plasticizers based on existing regulatory assessments, creating a contrast to concerns raised by independent academic research.
Esse positioning contrasts significantly with the scientific evidence presented by Universidade of Nova York. The debate between regulatory data and independent evidence continues to guide future revisions of standards in different countries. The lack of commentary on DEHP keeps the focus on the differences between the two compounds analyzed and the gaps in current regulation.
Caminhos for exposure reduction
Professor Leonardo Trasande said the research results could serve as a basis for negotiations aimed at imposing restrictions on chemicals of concern used in plastics. The team highlighted the opportunity to advance public policies that limit the presence of these phthalates in items of frequent human contact. Redução for use in food packaging and children’s items represents one of the most direct fronts of action, while replacement programs with alternative compounds are already advancing in some regulated sectors.
Campanhas awareness about label reading can empower families to choose safer products. Adequate Ventilação in homes and conscious choice of materials during renovations or construction of new properties complement regulatory actions at government level. The combination of industrial innovation, public policies and consumer education tends to produce the best results in reducing population exposure to phthalates.
Perspectivas futures and economic impact
Partos premature babies require neonatal intensive care and generate high costs for health systems around the world. Quando associated with deaths, the emotional and economic impact multiplies exponentially for families and society. The 2018 survey serves as a quantitative reference to prioritize interventions and investments in chemical regulation, which can generate significant savings by reducing the incidence of preventable complications in the perinatal period. Países with different levels of regulation could use the data to review standards on the composition of plastic materials and consumer products, aligning with consolidated scientific evidence and protecting future generations.