Phthalates linked to heart disease: Global study reveals major health risks from common plastics

A recent study has found that synthetic chemicals known as phthalates, which are commonly used in everyday items such as food containers, shampoo, makeup, perfume, and children's toys, may have contributed to over 10% of global heart disease deaths in 2018 among adults aged 55 to 64.

Dr. Leonardo Trasande, a lead researcher and professor at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, explained that phthalates promote inflammation in the coronary arteries, which can worsen pre-existing conditions and increase the risk of fatal cardiac events.

He also noted that these chemicals disrupt testosterone production, a factor linked to cardiovascular disease in men.

Past studies have associated phthalates with a range of health problems, including birth defects in boys, lower testosterone levels, reduced sperm counts, asthma, childhood obesity, and cancer.

David Andrews from the Environmental Working Group, though not involved in the study, emphasized the significant public health and economic risks posed by DEHP, a specific type of phthalate.

Phthalates, often referred to as “everywhere chemicals,” are added to a wide variety of products to improve flexibility and durability. These include PVC pipes, vinyl flooring, rain- and stain-resistant products, medical devices, hoses, food packaging, detergents, clothing, furniture, and cosmetics.

They are also used in scented personal care products to prolong fragrance. Human exposure typically occurs through breathing contaminated air or consuming food and drinks that have been in contact with plastics.

The study, published in eBiomedicine, focused on DEHP and its connection to cardiovascular deaths across 200 countries and territories.

Researchers examined data from population surveys that included urine samples with chemical byproducts of DEHP, which is recognized as a risk factor for heart disease and is also flagged by California's Proposition 65 as a chemical linked to cancer and reproductive harm.

By comparing DEHP exposure with global mortality statistics, the study estimated that it was responsible for around 368,000 deaths in 2018 among people aged 55 to 64. Regions most affected included Africa, East Asia, and the Middle East.

Lead author Sara Hyman stated that this research is likely the first global estimate linking DEHP exposure to a major cause of death. She emphasized the importance of recognizing phthalates as a serious threat to human health.

However, some experts, including Andrews, cautioned that applying U.S.-based risk data globally may not fully reflect variations in exposure levels and healthcare access between countries.

In a separate U.S.-focused study, Trasande's team found that high levels of phthalates in urine samples from over 5,000 adults were associated with an increased risk of premature death, especially from heart disease.

The study estimated that these deaths could total between 91,000 and 107,000 annually and cost the U.S. economy up to $47 billion each year in lost productivity.

These findings held true even after accounting for other health issues, lifestyle factors, and exposure to other endocrine disruptors like BPA.

Experts recommend limiting exposure to phthalates by reducing the use of plastic products and ultra-processed foods. They advise against microwaving or dishwashing plastic containers, which can cause chemicals to leach out more easily.

Additional precautions include choosing fragrance-free personal care and cleaning products, using non-plastic containers for food storage, opting for fresh or frozen produce over canned, practicing regular handwashing, and avoiding plastic items marked with recycling codes 3, 6, and 7.