Older adults exposed to a mix of common chemicals — especially men — may face greater risks of memory loss and slower thinking, according to new research.
Pamela Ferdinand reports for U.S. Right to Know.
In short:
- Researchers studied nearly 900 U.S. adults and found that exposure to phenols, parabens, and especially phthalates was linked to poorer cognitive performance, with men showing the greatest declines.
- Even low levels of these chemicals, found in products like food packaging and cosmetics, were associated with memory and attention problems.
- The strongest negative effects were tied to the phthalate MEHP, a chemical breakdown product commonly found in plastics.
Key quote:
“Chronic exposure to harmful elements can disrupt neural processes, damaging the brain and causing memory loss.”
— Study authors
Why this matters:
As the population ages, cognitive decline has become an urgent public health challenge. Scientists have long studied factors like genetics and lifestyle, but growing evidence now points to environmental chemicals as another contributor. Many substances found in everyday products — plastic containers, shampoos, food packaging — contain phthalates, phenols, and parabens. These chemicals can interfere with hormone function and may harm the brain. Researchers warn that while safety standards often assess chemicals individually, people are exposed to complex mixtures that may interact in harmful ways.
With nearly one in 10 U.S. adults over 65 living with dementia, and even more experiencing mild cognitive impairment, understanding how common pollutants affect aging brains is critical. The findings add to the growing call for more rigorous study of chemical mixtures and their long-term effects on human health and neurological function.
Related EHN coverage: Black, Hispanic and poor children are more exposed to pollution that ends up harming their brains: Study
