A comprehensive study has found a strong link between common plastic chemicals and premature births in the United States. The study reveals that one in ten premature births in the country is associated with pregnant women’s exposure to phthalates, which are commonly found in plastic products such as containers, beauty products, and toys.
Phthalates, known as hormone disruptors, interfere with the endocrine system and pose risks of obesity, heart disease, cancers, and fertility issues. Lead author Leonardo Trasande of New York University’s Langone Health explains that these chemicals have the capacity to induce early labor and birth due to hormonal influence.
The study analyzed phthalate levels in the urine of over 5,000 pregnant women and found that higher exposure was linked to a 50 percent increased risk of preterm birth before week 37. Extrapolating these findings nationwide, it is estimated that approximately 56,600 preterm births in 2018 in the US were potentially associated with phthalate exposure, accounting for 10 percent of all premature births.
Premature and underweight babies face heightened health risks, resulting in significant medical and social costs ranging from $1.6 to $8.1 billion in the United States alone.
Although the study specifically focused on the United States, Trasande warns that phthalates are pervasive and estimates their role in 5-10 percent of premature births globally. He advocates for a global treaty to regulate plastic production, urging a balance between its societal benefits and health risks.
Trasande emphasizes that plastic is the primary source of phthalate exposure and calls for collective action. He suggests regulating phthalates as a group, considering the alarming potency of replacement compounds. He also warns against microwaving or dishwashing plastic containers, as they can leach phthalates into food.
The study’s findings serve as a wake-up call, highlighting the urgent need to address the potential risks associated with exposure to phthalates. Protecting pregnant women and their unborn children should be a priority, as the consequences of premature births can have long-term effects on both individuals and society as a whole.
By raising awareness and implementing measures to minimize phthalate exposure, we can work towards creating a safer environment for pregnant women and reducing the rates of premature births. It is crucial for policymakers, manufacturers, and consumers to take action to mitigate the risks posed by these harmful plastic chemicals in order to safeguard public health.
